Drug Price Trends for MICROGESTIN FE

Average Pharmacy Cost for MICROGESTIN FE

These are average pharmacy acquisition costs (net of discounts) from a US national survey

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
MICROGESTIN FE 1.5-30 TAB	75907-0081-62	0.13805	EACH	2024-12-18
MICROGESTIN FE 1-20 TABLET	51862-0866-01	0.12469	EACH	2024-12-18
MICROGESTIN FE 1-20 TABLET	51862-0866-06	0.12469	EACH	2024-12-18
MICROGESTIN FE 1-20 TABLET	75907-0082-62	0.12469	EACH	2024-12-18

Market Analysis and Price Projections for Microgestin FE

Introduction to Microgestin FE

Microgestin FE is a combination oral contraceptive that contains norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, along with ferrous fumarate. It is widely used for birth control and is available in various formulations, including Microgestin FE 1/20 and Microgestin FE 1.5/30[4][5].

Market Overview

The market for oral contraceptives is highly competitive and regulated. Microgestin FE, as a member of the contraceptives drug class, competes with numerous other brands and generic versions. Here are some key points to consider:

Regulatory Environment

The FDA plays a crucial role in approving and regulating oral contraceptives. For instance, the approval process involves rigorous clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy, as seen with Lo Loestrin Fe[1].

Market Demand

The demand for oral contraceptives remains steady due to their widespread use for birth control. Policies and mandates, such as those in Massachusetts requiring coverage of oral contraceptives without cost sharing, can influence market demand and pricing[3].

Pricing Analysis

Current Pricing

The cost of Microgestin FE varies depending on the formulation and the pharmacy. Here are some current price points:

• Microgestin FE 1/20: The cost for a supply of 168 tablets is around $55, which translates to approximately $0.33 per unit[5].
• Microgestin FE 1.5/30: Similarly, the cost for a supply of 168 tablets is around $54.82, or about $0.33 per unit[2].

Generic Versions

Generic versions of Microgestin FE are available, which can significantly reduce the cost. For example, generic ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone tablets can cost as low as $32.16 for 84 tablets[2].

Discounts and Assistance Programs

Several discount programs, coupons, and copay cards are available to reduce the cost of Microgestin FE. These can save consumers up to 80% or more off the retail price. However, patient assistance programs specifically for Microgestin FE are limited[5].

Price Projections

Short-Term Projections

In the short term, prices for Microgestin FE are likely to remain stable due to the competitive nature of the market and the availability of generic alternatives. Any significant price changes would likely be driven by changes in manufacturing costs, regulatory requirements, or shifts in market demand.

Long-Term Projections

Long-term price projections suggest that the cost of Microgestin FE could decrease due to several factors:

• Increased Generic Competition: As more generic versions enter the market, competition is expected to drive prices down.
• Regulatory Changes: Mandates requiring coverage of oral contraceptives without cost sharing could lead to more affordable options for consumers.
• Economies of Scale: Large-scale production and distribution can reduce costs per unit, which may be passed on to consumers.

Market Trends

Shift to Generic and Biosimilar Products

There is a growing trend towards the use of generic and biosimilar products in the pharmaceutical industry. This trend is expected to continue, influencing the pricing of branded products like Microgestin FE.

Impact of Healthcare Policies

Healthcare policies, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and state-specific mandates, play a significant role in shaping the market for oral contraceptives. These policies can affect pricing by requiring insurers to cover certain medications without cost sharing[3].

Safety and Efficacy Considerations

Clinical Trials and Safety Profile

The safety and efficacy of Microgestin FE have been established through clinical trials. For example, the Pearl Index, a measure of contraceptive efficacy, is comparable to other approved low-dose oral contraceptives[1].

Warning and Contraindications

It is important to note that combination oral contraceptives like Microgestin FE come with warnings, particularly for women over 35 who smoke, due to increased risks of serious cardiovascular events[4].

Consumer Behavior and Preferences

Convenience and Affordability

Consumers often prioritize convenience and affordability when choosing oral contraceptives. The availability of generic versions and discount programs can significantly influence consumer preferences.

Brand Loyalty

Brand loyalty can also play a role, although it may be less significant in a market where generic alternatives are widely available and often preferred due to cost considerations.

Key Takeaways

• Pricing Stability: Short-term prices for Microgestin FE are expected to remain stable.
• Generic Competition: Long-term prices may decrease due to increased generic competition.
• Regulatory Impact: Healthcare policies can significantly affect pricing and market demand.
• Consumer Preferences: Affordability and convenience are key factors influencing consumer choices.
• Safety and Efficacy: The safety and efficacy of Microgestin FE are well-established, but certain warnings and contraindications apply.

FAQs

1. What is the current price range for Microgestin FE 1/20?

   • The current price range for Microgestin FE 1/20 is around $55 for a supply of 168 tablets, or approximately $0.33 per unit[5].

2. Are generic versions of Microgestin FE available?

   • Yes, generic versions of Microgestin FE are available and can significantly reduce the cost, with prices starting from around $32.16 for 84 tablets[2].

3. What are the potential long-term price projections for Microgestin FE?

   • Long-term prices are expected to decrease due to increased generic competition and potential regulatory changes that could make oral contraceptives more affordable[2][3].

4. What are the key factors influencing the pricing of Microgestin FE?

   • Key factors include generic competition, regulatory changes, economies of scale, and consumer preferences for affordability and convenience.

5. Are there any specific warnings or contraindications associated with Microgestin FE?

   • Yes, Microgestin FE is contraindicated in women over 35 who smoke due to increased risks of serious cardiovascular events[4].

Sources

1. FDA Review of Lo Loestrin Fe - accessdata.fda.gov
2. Microgestin Fe 1.5/30 Prices - drugs.com
3. Mandated Benefit Review of H.536/S.499 - chiamass.gov
4. Microgestin 24 Fe: Package Insert / Prescribing Information - drugs.com
5. Microgestin Fe 1/20 Prices - drugs.com