Market Analysis and Price Projections for the Drug NDC: 53451-0101
Introduction to NDC 53451-0101
The National Drug Code (NDC) 53451-0101 identifies the drug HORIZANT, which is an extended-release tablet containing 600 mg of gabapentin enacarbil. This medication is manufactured and packaged by Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (formerly Arbor Pharmaceuticals)[5].
Understanding the NDC Structure
To contextualize the drug, it's important to understand the NDC structure. The NDC is a 10-digit, three-segment number that identifies the labeler, product, and package size. For HORIZANT, the NDC 53451-0101 breaks down as follows:
- Labeler Code: 53451 (assigned by the FDA to Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
- Product Code: 0101 (identifies the specific strength, dosage form, and formulation of HORIZANT)
- Package Code: 1 (identifies the package size and type)[1].
Market Trends in the Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing several key trends that can influence the market and price projections for HORIZANT.
Global Pharmaceutical Market Growth
The global pharmaceutical market is expected to grow robustly, with output forecasted to increase by 3% in 2024, 4% in 2025, and 3.6% in 2026. Regions like Asia Pacific and the Middle East are expected to have the largest annual growth rates[3].
US Pharmaceutical Market
In the United States, pharmaceutical output is projected to increase by 2.9% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025, driven by an ageing population and increased demand for medications, including those for chronic conditions and weight loss[3].
Drug Price Inflation
Vizient, Inc. projects a drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025, influenced by factors such as expanding indications for previously approved medications and the introduction of high-cost cell and gene therapies[2].
Price Projections for HORIZANT
Given the broader market trends, here are some factors and projections that could impact the pricing of HORIZANT:
Research and Development Costs
Pharmaceutical companies, including Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc., continually engage in research and development to improve their drugs. These costs, along with increases in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), materials, and other supplies, are often offset by price increases consistent with prevailing market conditions[4].
Market Demand and Competition
The demand for medications like HORIZANT, which treat specific conditions (in this case, restless legs syndrome and postherpetic neuralgia), is driven by the prevalence of these conditions. An ageing population and growing middle class in various regions can increase demand, potentially stabilizing or increasing prices.
Regulatory Environment
Drug pricing regulations can significantly impact the pharmaceutical industry. In the US, government initiatives to reduce pharmaceutical prices for consumers could affect the pricing strategy for HORIZANT[3].
Potential Price Increases
Given the projected drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025, it is plausible that the price of HORIZANT could increase accordingly. Here are some potential scenarios:
- Base Price Increase: A 3.81% increase in the base price of HORIZANT would reflect the overall market trend.
- Adjusted for R&D and Supply Costs: If Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. incurs significant costs in research and development or faces increases in API and material costs, the price of HORIZANT could rise more substantially than the base inflation rate.
Example Calculation
If the current price of a 30-tablet package of HORIZANT is $100, a 3.81% increase would result in a new price of approximately $103.81.
Key Considerations for Providers and Consumers
- Budget Impact: Healthcare providers need to prepare for potential price increases by adjusting their budgets and operational processes.
- Consumer Affordability: Consumers should be aware of potential price changes and may need to explore alternative treatments or financial assistance programs if the medication becomes less affordable.
Conclusion
The market analysis and price projections for HORIZANT (NDC 53451-0101) are influenced by broader pharmaceutical industry trends, including global market growth, drug price inflation, and regulatory environments. While specific price increases cannot be predicted with certainty, understanding these factors can help both providers and consumers prepare for potential changes.
Key Takeaways
- Global Pharmaceutical Growth: The industry is expected to grow by 3% in 2024, 4% in 2025, and 3.6% in 2026.
- US Market Trends: US pharmaceutical output is projected to increase by 2.9% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025.
- Drug Price Inflation: A 3.81% drug price inflation rate is projected for 2025.
- Research and Development Costs: These costs can lead to price increases.
- Regulatory Impact: Government initiatives to reduce drug prices could affect pricing strategies.
FAQs
Q: What is the NDC code for HORIZANT, and what does it represent?
A: The NDC code for HORIZANT is 53451-0101, representing the labeler (Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc.), the specific product (gabapentin enacarbil extended-release tablets), and the package size.
Q: What are the key factors influencing the price of HORIZANT?
A: Key factors include global and US market growth, drug price inflation, research and development costs, and regulatory environments.
Q: How might the price of HORIZANT change in 2025?
A: The price could increase by approximately 3.81% based on projected drug price inflation rates.
Q: What should healthcare providers do in response to potential price increases?
A: Providers should prepare by adjusting their budgets and operational processes to accommodate potential price changes.
Q: How can consumers prepare for potential price increases of HORIZANT?
A: Consumers should be aware of potential price changes and may need to explore alternative treatments or financial assistance programs if the medication becomes less affordable.
Sources
- FDA: National Drug Code Database Background Information - FDA
- Vizient, Inc.: Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81%
- Atradius: Industry Trends Pharmaceuticals September 2024
- New York State Department of Financial Services: Drug Price Increases Report - November 2024
- DailyMed: HORIZANT- gabapentin enacarbil tablet, extended release