Overview of Oxycodone and Acetaminophen
Oxycodone and Acetaminophen, with the National Drug Code (NDC) 42858-104, is a combination drug used for the management of moderate to severe pain. It is labeled and distributed by Rhodes Pharmaceuticals L.P. and falls under the category of Human Prescription Drugs[4].
Market Dynamics
Supply Chain and Regulatory Environment
The pharmaceutical market, including drugs like Oxycodone and Acetaminophen, is heavily influenced by regulatory policies and the interactions within the supply chain. States like Oregon have implemented drug price transparency programs, which require manufacturers to report price increases and new high-cost drugs. This includes monitoring by entities such as pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and health insurers to ensure transparency and affordability[2].
Price Trends
Price trends for prescription drugs, including generics like Oxycodone and Acetaminophen, can be volatile. For instance, the median price increase for generic drugs in 2022 was 19.9%, with some drugs experiencing significant hikes, such as a 2,527% increase for a generic naproxen[2].
Current Pricing
As of the latest available data, specific pricing for Oxycodone and Acetaminophen (NDC: 42858-104) is not provided in the sources. However, we can look at similar products for context. For example, Oxycodone Hydrochloride (NDC: 42858-0002) had a price per unit of around $0.138 to $0.165 in late 2024[1].
Price Projections
Factors Influencing Price
Several factors influence the pricing of prescription drugs:
- Manufacturing Costs: Changes in raw material costs, production efficiencies, and other manufacturing expenses can impact the final price.
- Regulatory Changes: Policies such as upper payment limits, transparency requirements, and negotiations by entities like Medicare can affect drug prices[2].
- Market Demand: Fluctuations in demand due to changes in patient needs or competition from other drugs can influence pricing.
- Supply Chain Dynamics: Interactions between pharmaceutical companies, PBMs, and health insurers play a crucial role in determining the final cost to consumers[2].
Potential Price Movements
Given the current trends, here are some potential price movements for Oxycodone and Acetaminophen:
- Short-Term Stability: Prices might remain relatively stable in the short term due to existing supply chain agreements and regulatory oversight.
- Long-Term Adjustments: As regulatory policies evolve, such as the implementation of upper payment limits or increased transparency, prices could adjust downward to reflect these changes.
- Market Competition: The entry of new generic competitors could drive prices down, as seen in other generic drug markets where competition has led to significant price reductions[3].
Impact of Regulatory Policies
Drug Price Transparency
Regulatory policies aimed at increasing transparency, such as those in Oregon, can help in understanding the factors contributing to drug prices. These policies require detailed reporting from manufacturers and other supply chain entities, which can lead to more informed decision-making and potentially lower prices[2].
Upper Payment Limits
The concept of upper payment limits, similar to those proposed in Oregon and implemented in some form in other states, could significantly impact the pricing of high-cost drugs. If implemented, this could cap the maximum price that can be charged for certain drugs, including combination products like Oxycodone and Acetaminophen[2].
Market Share and Competition
Non-Traditional vs. Traditional Models
The market share of non-traditional models, which include newer entrants in the pharmaceutical industry, has been increasing. However, their prices have been higher than those of traditional models until recent quarters, where prices have begun to drop. This trend could influence the pricing strategy for Oxycodone and Acetaminophen, especially if non-traditional models enter this market segment[3].
Consumer Impact
Affordability and Access
Changes in drug prices significantly impact consumer affordability and access to essential medications. Policies aimed at reducing prices and increasing transparency can help make drugs like Oxycodone and Acetaminophen more accessible to those who need them.
Key Takeaways
- Regulatory Influence: Regulatory policies play a crucial role in determining drug prices.
- Market Dynamics: Competition and supply chain interactions significantly influence pricing.
- Price Volatility: Generic drug prices can be highly volatile, with significant increases or decreases possible.
- Consumer Impact: Changes in drug prices directly affect consumer affordability and access.
FAQs
Q: What is the current price of Oxycodone and Acetaminophen (NDC: 42858-104)?
A: Specific current pricing for Oxycodone and Acetaminophen (NDC: 42858-104) is not available in the provided sources.
Q: How do regulatory policies affect drug prices?
A: Regulatory policies, such as drug price transparency and upper payment limits, can reduce prices by increasing oversight and capping maximum prices.
Q: What factors influence the pricing of prescription drugs?
A: Factors include manufacturing costs, regulatory changes, market demand, and supply chain dynamics.
Q: How does competition affect the pricing of generic drugs?
A: Increased competition, especially from non-traditional models, can drive prices down as companies compete for market share.
Q: What is the impact of upper payment limits on drug prices?
A: Upper payment limits can cap the maximum price of drugs, potentially reducing costs for consumers and making drugs more affordable.
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch - Latest drug prices and trends for NDC 42858-0002
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services - Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations
- ASPE - SDP Nonprofit Quantitative Issue Brief
- FDA.Report - NDC 42858-104 Oral Tablet Oxycodone and Acetaminophen Drug
