Introduction
Desoximetasone, a potent topical corticosteroid, is widely used for the treatment of various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. The NDC code 51672-1270 corresponds to Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25%, manufactured and distributed by Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this specific formulation.
Market Size and Sales Revenue
The U.S. prescription drug market, particularly for topical corticosteroids like Desoximetasone, has seen significant growth over the past few years. According to the ASPE issue brief, total sales revenues for prescription drugs in the U.S. increased from $582 billion in 2017 to $716 billion in 2022, representing a 23% increase[3].
Pricing Trends
Pricing trends for prescription drugs in the U.S. are characterized by high and increasing prices compared to other countries. The average price per unit in the U.S. was 5.5 times as high as in the OECD (excluding the U.S.) and 7.7 times as high as in the rest of the world (excluding the U.S.) in 2022[3].
Specific Pricing for Desoximetasone
While specific pricing data for Desoximetasone (NDC: 51672-1270) is not readily available in the public domain, we can infer from broader trends. The prices of topical corticosteroids, including Desoximetasone, are generally influenced by the overall pharmaceutical market dynamics.
Drug Price Inflation Projections
Vizient's summer Pharmacy Market Outlook for 2024 projects an overall drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025. This projection is based on various factors, including the expanding indications of previously approved medications and the introduction of high-cost therapies[2].
Given this context, it is reasonable to expect that the price of Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25% (NDC: 51672-1270) may also increase, albeit at a rate that could be influenced by its generic status and market competition.
Supply and Distribution
Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25% is supplied in various tube sizes: 15 grams, 30 grams, 60 grams, and 100 grams. This versatility in packaging can affect pricing strategies and consumer affordability[1].
Regulatory and Transparency Issues
The transparency of drug pricing is a significant issue, with variable quality of information submitted by manufacturers. For instance, the Oregon Prescription Drug Price Transparency Annual Report highlighted significant price increases for some generic drugs, including a 2,527% increase for a generic naproxen[5].
Consumer and Healthcare Provider Impact
The high and increasing prices of prescription drugs, including topical corticosteroids like Desoximetasone, have a substantial impact on both consumers and healthcare providers. Consumers may face higher out-of-pocket costs, while healthcare providers must navigate budget constraints and operational challenges[2][3].
Competitive Landscape
The market for topical corticosteroids is competitive, with several other products available, such as Betamethasone Dipropionate. This competition can influence pricing strategies, as manufacturers aim to maintain market share while maximizing revenue[4].
Future Outlook
Given the projected drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025, it is likely that the price of Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25% will increase. However, the exact magnitude of this increase will depend on various factors, including market competition, regulatory changes, and the overall economic environment.
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: The U.S. prescription drug market has seen significant growth, with total sales revenues increasing by 23% from 2017 to 2022.
- Pricing Trends: Prices in the U.S. are significantly higher than in other countries, with an average price per unit 5.5 times higher than in the OECD (excluding the U.S.).
- Inflation Projections: A 3.81% drug price inflation rate is projected for 2025.
- Supply and Distribution: Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25% is available in various tube sizes.
- Regulatory Issues: Transparency in drug pricing remains a challenge.
- Consumer and Provider Impact: High prices affect both consumers and healthcare providers.
FAQs
Q: What is the current market size for prescription drugs in the U.S.?
A: The total sales revenues for prescription drugs in the U.S. were $716 billion in 2022[3].
Q: How do U.S. drug prices compare to those in other countries?
A: U.S. drug prices are significantly higher, with the average price per unit being 5.5 times higher than in the OECD (excluding the U.S.) and 7.7 times higher than in the rest of the world (excluding the U.S.)[3].
Q: What is the projected drug price inflation rate for 2025?
A: The projected drug price inflation rate for 2025 is 3.81% according to Vizient's summer Pharmacy Market Outlook[2].
Q: What are the common packaging sizes for Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25%?
A: Desoximetasone cream USP, 0.25% is supplied in 15 gram, 30 gram, 60 gram, and 100 gram tubes[1].
Q: How does the competitive landscape affect the pricing of Desoximetasone?
A: The competitive landscape, including other topical corticosteroids like Betamethasone Dipropionate, influences pricing strategies as manufacturers aim to maintain market share while maximizing revenue[4].
Sources
- DailyMed: DESOXIMETASONE cream DESOXIMETASONE gel.
- Vizient Inc.: Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81%.
- ASPE: Comparing U.S. and International Market Size and Average Pricing for Prescription Drugs, 2017-2022.
- FDA.Report: NDC 51672-1274 Topical Cream Betamethasone Dipropionate.
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations.
