Introduction
Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution, with the NDC code 60219-1749, is a sterile topical anticholinergic used for ophthalmic purposes. This solution is manufactured by Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC and is available in various volumes, including a 5 mL packaging[5].
Current Market Pricing
As of December 2024, the average pharmacy cost for Atropine 1% Eye Drops with the NDC code 60219-1749 is approximately $5.69868 per milliliter (mL). This pricing is based on recent data from pharmacy cost trackers[1].
Historical Price Trends
To understand the price stability of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution, it is essential to look at historical price trends. While specific historical data for this NDC code is limited, generic drugs in general have seen significant price fluctuations. For instance, the median price increase for generic drugs reported in 2022 was 19.9%, with some drugs experiencing much higher increases, such as a 2,527% increase for a generic version of naproxen[2].
Factors Influencing Drug Prices
Several factors contribute to the pricing of prescription drugs like Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution:
Research and Development Costs
Manufacturers often attribute price increases to the high costs associated with research and development, as well as obligations to shareholders[4].
Market Competition
The number of competitors in the market can significantly influence drug prices. For Atropine Sulfate, being a generic drug, the presence of multiple manufacturers can help keep prices relatively stable compared to brand-name drugs[4].
Rebates and Discounts
Rebates, co-pay assistance programs, and other financial incentives can also impact the final price consumers pay for the drug. These factors are often not transparent and can vary widely between different pharmaceutical supply chain entities[2][4].
Regulatory Oversight
State and federal regulations, such as the Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act in Oregon, aim to increase transparency and accountability in drug pricing. However, the effectiveness of these measures in controlling price increases is still being evaluated[2][4].
Price Projections
Given the current trends and factors influencing drug prices, here are some projections for Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution:
Short-Term Projections
In the short term, prices for Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution are likely to remain relatively stable, given the competitive nature of the generic drug market. However, minor fluctuations based on market dynamics and regulatory changes are possible.
Long-Term Projections
Over the long term, the biopharma and biotech industries are expected to see significant changes due to technological advancements and evolving regulatory frameworks. While these changes might not directly impact the price of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution, they could influence the broader pharmaceutical market. For instance, the increasing use of precision medicine and AI/ML technologies could lead to more efficient drug development processes, potentially reducing costs in the long run[3].
Impact of Regulatory Changes
Regulatory changes, such as the implementation of an "upper payment limit" for certain drugs, could significantly impact the pricing of prescription medications. If such measures are adopted, they could help cap price increases and make drugs more affordable for consumers. However, the actual effect of such policies remains untested and would depend on various factors, including the specific drugs targeted and the mechanisms of enforcement[2].
Consumer and Market Impact
The high cost of prescription drugs remains a significant issue for many consumers. According to a 2021 poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 29% of Americans reported not taking their medications as prescribed due to cost, which can have severe health implications. Transparency and regulatory measures aimed at controlling drug prices are crucial for ensuring that medications like Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution remain accessible to those who need them[2].
Conclusion
The pricing of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution is influenced by a complex array of factors, including market competition, research and development costs, and regulatory oversight. While short-term price stability is expected, long-term projections are more uncertain and will depend on broader industry trends and regulatory changes.
Key Takeaways
- Current Pricing: The average pharmacy cost for Atropine 1% Eye Drops (NDC: 60219-1749) is approximately $5.69868 per mL as of December 2024.
- Historical Trends: Generic drugs have seen significant price increases, with a median increase of 19.9% in 2022.
- Influencing Factors: Research and development costs, market competition, rebates, and regulatory oversight play crucial roles in drug pricing.
- Regulatory Impact: Potential regulatory changes, such as upper payment limits, could influence future pricing.
- Consumer Impact: High drug prices affect consumer adherence to medication regimens, highlighting the need for transparency and affordability measures.
FAQs
Q: What is the current price of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution (NDC: 60219-1749)?
A: As of December 2024, the average pharmacy cost is approximately $5.69868 per milliliter (mL)[1].
Q: What factors influence the price of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution?
A: Factors include research and development costs, market competition, rebates, co-pay assistance programs, and regulatory oversight[2][4].
Q: How do regulatory changes impact drug prices?
A: Regulatory changes, such as the Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act and potential upper payment limits, aim to increase transparency and control price increases[2][4].
Q: What is the impact of high drug prices on consumers?
A: High drug prices can lead to non-adherence to medication regimens, with 29% of Americans reporting they do not take their medications as prescribed due to cost[2].
Q: Are there any long-term projections for the price of Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution?
A: Long-term projections are uncertain but could be influenced by broader industry trends such as technological advancements and evolving regulatory frameworks[3].
Sources
- Drug Patent Watch: Pharmaceutical drug prices and trends for ATROPINE.
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Annual Report 2022.
- TFS CRO: 5 Predictions for the Biopharma and Biotech Industries in 2025.
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations 2019.
- DailyMed: Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic Solution USP, 1%.
