Introduction
Hydrochlorothiazide, with the NDC code 69315-155, is a generic prescription drug manufactured by Leading Pharma, LLC. It is a thiazide diuretic used primarily to treat hypertension and edema. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this drug.
Market Overview
The prescription drug market, including generic drugs like hydrochlorothiazide, is expected to grow significantly. According to market trends, the overall prescription drug market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9% through 2030[5].
Drug Pricing Dynamics
Factors Influencing Price
The price of hydrochlorothiazide, like other prescription drugs, is influenced by several factors:
- Manufacturing Costs: This includes the cost of raw materials, research and development, and production.
- Market Competition: The number of competitors in the market can significantly impact the price of the drug.
- Regulatory Environment: Policies and regulations, such as those related to price transparency and reporting, can affect pricing strategies[3].
- Rebates and Discounts: Negotiations between pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and health insurers can significantly alter the final cost to consumers[2].
Price Transparency
Oregon's Drug Price Transparency Program, for example, requires manufacturers to report new high-cost drugs and annual price increases exceeding 10% for drugs costing more than $100 per month. This transparency helps in understanding the factors contributing to price increases, such as rebates, co-pay assistance programs, and shareholder obligations[3].
Historical Price Trends
While specific historical price data for NDC 69315-155 is not provided, generic drugs have seen significant price fluctuations. For instance, the median price increase for generic drugs in Oregon was 19.9% in 2022, with some drugs experiencing much higher increases, such as a 2,527% increase for a generic naproxen[2].
Current Pricing
As of the latest available data, the pricing for hydrochlorothiazide tablets is generally stable but can vary based on the vendor and the specific formulation. For example, the price per unit for similar generic drugs can range widely depending on the supplier and the volume purchased.
Price Projections
Market Growth
Given the overall growth in the prescription drug market, it is likely that the demand for hydrochlorothiazide will remain steady or increase. This demand, combined with potential changes in manufacturing costs, regulatory environments, and market competition, will influence future prices.
Potential Price Increases
- Regulatory Impact: If states implement stricter price transparency and control measures, such as upper payment limits, it could stabilize or reduce price increases for drugs like hydrochlorothiazide[2].
- Market Competition: Increased competition from other generic manufacturers could lead to lower prices.
- Economic Factors: Economic conditions, including inflation and changes in healthcare policies, can also impact drug prices.
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often highlight the complexity of the pharmaceutical supply chain and the need for greater transparency. For example, the Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program has shown that rebates and discounts negotiated by PBMs are a significant factor in the final cost of drugs to consumers. Greater transparency in these negotiations could lead to more stable and predictable pricing[2].
Illustrative Statistics
- The median price increase for generic drugs in Oregon was 19.9% in 2022, indicating significant volatility in generic drug pricing[2].
- The overall prescription drug market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030, suggesting sustained demand for drugs like hydrochlorothiazide[5].
Consumer Impact
For consumers, the price of hydrochlorothiazide can have a significant impact on their healthcare costs. Price increases can lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses, especially for those without comprehensive insurance coverage. Policies aimed at increasing transparency and controlling price increases can help mitigate these costs.
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: The prescription drug market, including generic drugs like hydrochlorothiazide, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030.
- Price Factors: The price of hydrochlorothiazide is influenced by manufacturing costs, market competition, regulatory environment, and rebates/discounts.
- Price Transparency: Programs like Oregon's Drug Price Transparency Program help in understanding price increases and their causes.
- Potential Price Increases: Prices may stabilize or increase based on regulatory changes, market competition, and economic factors.
FAQs
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What is the primary use of hydrochlorothiazide?
- Hydrochlorothiazide is primarily used to treat hypertension and edema.
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Who manufactures the NDC 69315-155 hydrochlorothiazide tablets?
- The NDC 69315-155 hydrochlorothiazide tablets are manufactured by Leading Pharma, LLC[1].
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What factors influence the price of hydrochlorothiazide?
- The price is influenced by manufacturing costs, market competition, regulatory environment, and rebates/discounts.
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How does price transparency impact drug pricing?
- Price transparency programs help in understanding the factors contributing to price increases and can lead to more stable and predictable pricing.
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What is the projected growth rate of the prescription drug market?
- The overall prescription drug market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030[5].
Sources
- FDA Report: NDC 69315-155 Oral Tablet HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE Drug Information.
- Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations 2022.
- Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations 2019.
- DailyMed: Nifedipine capsule label information.
- DrugPatentWatch: Latest drug prices and trends for NDC 00054-0319.
