Introduction
Cevimeline Hydrochloride, with the NDC code 16571-0657, is a medication manufactured by Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. It is primarily used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this drug.
Market Overview
The pharmaceutical market is dynamic, influenced by various factors such as regulatory changes, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer demand.
Pharmaceutical Industry Trends
In 2025, the pharmaceutical industry is expected to focus on several key areas:
- Evolving Portfolios: Pharmaceutical companies are investing in novel modalities and mechanisms of action (MOAs), targeting therapy areas with high unmet needs. This trend, however, does not directly impact Cevimeline Hydrochloride, as it is an established medication[3].
- Data and AI in R&D: The use of data and AI is becoming more prevalent in drug development to reduce costs and timelines. While this could influence the development of new treatments, it is less likely to affect the pricing of existing drugs like Cevimeline Hydrochloride[3].
Drug Specifics
Cevimeline Hydrochloride
Cevimeline Hydrochloride is a cholinergic agonist that stimulates salivary gland function to increase saliva production. Here are some key points about this drug:
- Manufacturer: Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc.
- NDC Code: 16571-0657
- Indication: Treatment of dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome[1][5].
Pricing Dynamics
Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC)
The pricing of pharmaceuticals is influenced by several factors, including the Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC), which is the list price of a drug before any discounts or rebates.
- Recent Trends: The average percent increase in WAC for brand drugs has been above the consumer price index (CPI-U). However, the percentage of drugs with WAC increases has decreased over the past few years, from 14.41% in 2017 to 9.67% in 2021[4].
Rebates and Discounts
Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) play a significant role in drug pricing by negotiating rebates and discounts with manufacturers.
- Rebate Practices: PBMs receive rebates from manufacturers, which can significantly impact the final cost of the drug. For brand drugs, PBMs received rebates representing 26.68% of the average WAC amount in 2021[4].
Price Projections
Given the current trends and factors influencing drug pricing:
Short-Term Projections
- Stability: The WAC for Cevimeline Hydrochloride is likely to remain relatively stable in the short term, as it is an established medication and not subject to the same level of price volatility as newer drugs.
- Minimal Increases: Any price increases are expected to be minimal, aligning with the overall trend of reduced WAC increases across the pharmaceutical industry[4].
Long-Term Projections
- Market Competition: The presence of generic alternatives could influence the pricing strategy for Cevimeline Hydrochloride. However, since it is a branded drug, it may maintain a premium price compared to generics.
- Regulatory Environment: Changes in regulatory policies or legislation could impact pricing. For instance, proposed legislation aimed at reducing drug prices could affect the WAC of Cevimeline Hydrochloride[4].
Supply Chain and Manufacturing
The resilience and efficiency of the supply chain can also impact drug pricing.
- Optimization Efforts: Pharmaceutical companies are investing in data, AI, and digital tools to enhance supply chain resilience and efficiency. This could lead to cost savings that might be reflected in stable or slightly reduced prices for drugs like Cevimeline Hydrochloride[3].
Patient and Market Demand
The demand for Cevimeline Hydrochloride is driven by the prevalence of Sjögren's syndrome and the need for effective treatments for dry mouth.
- Stable Demand: The demand for this medication is likely to remain stable, as it is a specific treatment for a chronic condition. This stability in demand can help maintain a consistent price level[1].
Key Takeaways
- Pricing Stability: The price of Cevimeline Hydrochloride is expected to remain relatively stable in the short term.
- Minimal Increases: Any price increases are likely to be minimal and in line with broader industry trends.
- Regulatory and Market Factors: Changes in regulatory policies, market competition, and supply chain efficiencies could influence long-term pricing.
- Demand Stability: The consistent demand for this medication due to its specific indication helps maintain price stability.
FAQs
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What is Cevimeline Hydrochloride used for?
- Cevimeline Hydrochloride is used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome.
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Who manufactures Cevimeline Hydrochloride with NDC 16571-0657?
- Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. manufactures Cevimeline Hydrochloride with the NDC code 16571-0657.
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What are the current trends in pharmaceutical pricing?
- The average percent increase in WAC for brand drugs has been above the CPI-U, but the percentage of drugs with WAC increases has decreased over the past few years.
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How do rebates and discounts affect the pricing of Cevimeline Hydrochloride?
- Rebates and discounts negotiated by PBMs can significantly reduce the final cost of the drug, but the specific impact on Cevimeline Hydrochloride would depend on the agreements between the manufacturer and PBMs.
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What factors could influence the long-term pricing of Cevimeline Hydrochloride?
- Regulatory changes, market competition from generics, and improvements in supply chain efficiency could all influence the long-term pricing of Cevimeline Hydrochloride.
Cited Sources
- Find-A-Code: Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. - List of Drugs
- Missouri Department of Social Services: MISSOURI SPECIALTY MAC NAME OF DRUG
- ZS: Exploring 2025 pharma industry trends, outlook and strategies
- Maine Health Data Organization: MHDO Rx Transparency Report
- Find-A-Code: Rising Pharmaceuticals, Inc. - List of Drugs
