Introduction
Activella, identified by the National Drug Code (NDC) 60846-232, is a prescription drug manufactured by Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC. It is a combination of estradiol and norethindrone acetate, used primarily for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this drug.
Market Context
The pharmaceutical market is dynamic, with pricing and access to drugs being significant concerns for both manufacturers and consumers. According to a Deloitte report, pricing and access issues are expected to significantly impact life sciences strategies in 2025, with nearly half of C-suite executives anticipating a major impact[3].
Drug Profile: Activella
Activella is a film-coated oral tablet containing 1 mg of estradiol and 0.5 mg of norethindrone acetate. It was approved by the FDA and began marketing on May 1, 2019[1].
Pricing Trends in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Pricing trends in the pharmaceutical industry are characterized by frequent changes. From January 2022 to January 2023, over 4,200 drug products experienced price increases, with an average increase of 15.2% or $590 per drug product. This trend indicates that price changes can be substantial and vary widely depending on the drug and its market position[2].
Specific Pricing Trends for Activella
While specific price changes for Activella (NDC 60846-232) are not detailed in the available sources, the broader trend suggests that prescription drugs, especially those in the hormone replacement therapy category, can experience significant price fluctuations.
Factors Influencing Price Changes
Several factors can influence the pricing of Activella:
- Inflation and Economic Conditions: Price increases often exceed the rate of inflation, as seen in the period from January 2022 to January 2023 where the average price increase was 15.2%[2].
- Market Competition: The presence of generic drugs and biosimilars can impact pricing. However, since Activella is a branded drug, it may not face immediate competition from generics unless its patent expires or a generic version is approved[3].
- Regulatory Environment: Changes in regulatory policies and compliance requirements can affect drug pricing. For instance, firms must comply fully with FDA listing obligations to avoid exclusion from the NDC Directory[5].
Price Projections
Given the current trends:
- Short-Term Projections: Based on the average price increase of 15.2% observed from January 2022 to January 2023, it is plausible that Activella could experience a similar or slightly lower increase in the short term, assuming no significant changes in market conditions or regulatory environment.
- Long-Term Projections: The life sciences industry is expected to undergo significant transformations driven by digital advancements and scientific innovations. While this could lead to more efficient production and potentially lower costs, the impact on pricing will depend on various factors including competition, regulatory changes, and the firm's pricing strategies[3].
Impact of Generic and Biosimilar Competition
The biopharma industry is facing a substantial loss of exclusivity due to expiring patents, which could lead to increased competition from generics and biosimilars. However, since Activella's specific patent status is not detailed, its pricing will depend on whether it remains a branded product or faces generic competition in the future[3].
Consumer and Market Impact
High prescription drug prices, including those for Activella, create affordability challenges for patients, healthcare payers, employers, and taxpayers. Significant price increases can lead to reduced access to necessary medications, highlighting the need for balanced pricing strategies that consider both profitability and patient affordability[2].
Conclusion
The pricing of Activella, like many other prescription drugs, is influenced by a complex interplay of market, regulatory, and economic factors. While short-term price projections suggest potential increases in line with industry trends, long-term projections depend on broader industry transformations and competitive dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Pricing Trends: Prescription drugs, including Activella, are subject to frequent and sometimes significant price increases.
- Market Factors: Inflation, competition from generics and biosimilars, and regulatory changes can influence pricing.
- Industry Outlook: The life sciences industry is poised for transformation driven by digital and scientific innovations, which could impact pricing strategies.
- Affordability: High drug prices create affordability challenges, emphasizing the need for balanced pricing.
FAQs
What is Activella used for?
Activella is used primarily for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. It is a combination of estradiol and norethindrone acetate.
Who manufactures Activella?
Activella is manufactured by Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC.
What is the National Drug Code (NDC) for Activella?
The NDC for Activella is 60846-232.
How often do prescription drug prices change?
Prescription drug prices can change frequently, with over 4,200 drug products experiencing price increases from January 2022 to January 2023[2].
What are the main factors influencing the pricing of prescription drugs like Activella?
The main factors include inflation, market competition from generics and biosimilars, and regulatory changes.
Sources
- FDA.report: NDC 60846-232 Oral Tablet, Film Coated Activella...
- ASPE: Changes in the List Prices of Prescription Drugs, 2017-2023
- Deloitte Insights: 2025 life sciences outlook
- DrugPatentWatch: Latest pharmaceutical drug prices and trends for NDC 69238-2391
- FDA: National Drug Code Database Background Information
