Introduction to NDC Codes
The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique, three-segment number used by the FDA to identify drugs. The NDC code 62037-0598 corresponds to the drug product CARTIA XT, which is a diltiazem hydrochloride extended-release capsule manufactured by Actavis Pharma, Inc.[4].
Drug Overview: CARTIA XT
CARTIA XT is a human prescription drug used primarily for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris. The therapeutic effects of diltiazem, the active ingredient, are related to its ability to inhibit the cellular influx of calcium ions during membrane depolarization[4].
Market Trends in Pharmaceutical Pricing
General Pharmaceutical Price Inflation
The pharmaceutical market is experiencing significant price inflation. According to Vizient's summer 2024 Pharmacy Market Outlook, the overall drug price inflation rate for 2025 is projected to be 3.81%. This inflation is driven by various factors, including the expanding indications of previously approved medications and the introduction of high-cost cell and gene therapies[2].
Specific Trends in Cardiovascular Medications
While the report does not specifically mention diltiazem or CARTIA XT, it highlights the increasing costs associated with cardiovascular treatments. For instance, medications like semaglutide, used for diabetes and obesity, have seen significant spend increases due to their expanded indications, including reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events[2].
Price Transparency and Reporting
Regulatory Requirements
The FDA requires drug establishments to provide a current list of all drugs manufactured, prepared, propagated, compounded, or processed for sale in the U.S. This includes reporting the NDC numbers, which are published in the NDC Directory. For CARTIA XT, this means that any changes in pricing or product listings would be reflected in this directory[1].
State-Level Transparency
States like Oregon have implemented drug price transparency programs, which require manufacturers to report price increases and new high-cost drugs. While these programs do not specifically address CARTIA XT, they indicate a broader trend towards increased transparency in pharmaceutical pricing. For example, the Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program reported significant price increases for various drugs in 2022, including a 2,527% increase for a generic naproxen[5].
Price Projections for CARTIA XT
Current Pricing
As of the latest available data, the pricing for CARTIA XT is not explicitly mentioned in the sources. However, given the general trend of pharmaceutical price inflation, it is reasonable to expect that the price of CARTIA XT could increase.
Projected Price Inflation
Based on Vizient's projected overall drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025, it is likely that the price of CARTIA XT will also see an increase. Here is a hypothetical example of how this inflation might affect the pricing:
- If the current price of a 30-day supply of CARTIA XT is $X, a 3.81% increase would result in a new price of $X + (3.81% of $X).
Impact of Market Factors
The actual price increase could be influenced by various market factors, including changes in demand, production costs, and regulatory environments. For instance, if there is an increase in the demand for cardiovascular medications due to expanded indications or new clinical guidelines, this could drive up the price of CARTIA XT.
Key Takeaways
- NDC Code Significance: The NDC code 62037-0598 uniquely identifies CARTIA XT, a diltiazem hydrochloride extended-release capsule.
- Market Trends: The pharmaceutical market is experiencing a projected 3.81% price inflation rate for 2025, driven by factors such as expanding indications and new high-cost therapies.
- Regulatory Transparency: FDA and state-level regulations require transparency in drug pricing and reporting, which can impact the pricing of drugs like CARTIA XT.
- Price Projections: Based on general trends, the price of CARTIA XT is likely to increase, but the exact amount will depend on various market and regulatory factors.
FAQs
What is the NDC code for CARTIA XT?
The NDC code for CARTIA XT is 62037-0598.
What is the primary use of CARTIA XT?
CARTIA XT is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris.
What is the projected overall drug price inflation rate for 2025?
The projected overall drug price inflation rate for 2025 is 3.81% according to Vizient's summer 2024 Pharmacy Market Outlook.
How do state-level transparency programs affect drug pricing?
State-level transparency programs, such as Oregon's, require manufacturers to report price increases and new high-cost drugs, which can help in understanding and managing pharmaceutical costs.
What factors influence the price of CARTIA XT?
The price of CARTIA XT can be influenced by factors such as changes in demand, production costs, regulatory environments, and overall market trends in pharmaceutical pricing.
Sources
- FDA's National Drug Code Directory - FDA
- Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81% - Vizient Inc.
- Pharmacy Market Outlook Summer 2024 - Vizient Inc.
- Label: CARTIA XT- diltiazem hydrochloride capsule, extended release - DailyMed
- Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations - Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services
