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Drug Price Trends for ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET
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Average Pharmacy Cost for ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET
Drug Name | NDC | Price/Unit ($) | Unit | Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00603-2338-32 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00406-0484-23 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00603-2338-21 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00406-0484-01 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00406-0484-62 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00406-0484-03 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
ACETAMINOPHEN-COD #3 TABLET | 00406-0484-10 | 0.23697 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
>Drug Name | >NDC | >Price/Unit ($) | >Unit | >Date |
Market Analysis and Price Projections for Acetaminophen-Codeine #3 Tablets
Introduction
Acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets, commonly known as Tylenol No. 3, are a widely used medication for managing moderate to severe pain. This combination of acetaminophen and codeine is popular due to its effectiveness and relatively lower cost compared to other opioid combinations. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this medication.
Market Demand and Usage
The demand for acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets is driven by the need for effective pain management. These tablets are prescribed for various types of pain, including post-surgical pain, chronic pain, and acute pain. The FDA's restrictions on the use of codeine in children have not significantly impacted the overall demand for this medication in the adult population[4].
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Studies have shown that acetaminophen-codeine combinations are more cost-effective compared to other opioid combinations. For instance, a study in Colombia compared the cost-effectiveness of acetaminophen-codeine (AC), acetaminophen-hydrocodone (AH), and acetaminophen-tramadol (AT) formulations. The results indicated that the AC formulation had a lower cost and was more effective in reducing pain within the first 4-6 hours after administration[2].
Pricing Dynamics
The pricing of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets can vary significantly depending on the market and distribution channel.
Retail vs. Institutional Pricing
Institutional prices, typically paid by healthcare facilities, are generally lower than retail prices paid by patients. For example, in Colombia, the institutional price for acetaminophen 500mg + codeine 30mg was $913 per tablet, while the retail price was $1696 per tablet[2].
Street Value
In illicit markets, the price of these tablets can be substantially higher. A study in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside found that Tylenol No. 3 tablets had a street value of around $0.50 per pill, with a significant markup from the pharmacy cost[1].
Regulatory Impact
Regulatory changes can influence the pricing and availability of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets. For instance, the FDA's restrictions on codeine use in children have led to increased scrutiny and potential changes in prescribing practices, although this has not significantly impacted the adult market[4].
Price Projections
Given the cost-effectiveness and demand for acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets, here are some price projections:
Short-Term Projections
- Retail Prices: Expected to remain stable or see a slight increase due to inflation and market demand. Retail prices are likely to range between $1.50 to $3.00 per tablet.
- Institutional Prices: These are expected to remain lower than retail prices, likely ranging between $0.90 to $1.50 per tablet.
Long-Term Projections
- Generic Competition: As patents expire and more generic versions become available, prices may decrease. This could lead to a reduction in retail prices to around $1.00 to $2.00 per tablet.
- Regulatory Changes: Any further regulatory restrictions or changes in healthcare policies could impact pricing. However, given the current landscape, significant price drops are unlikely.
Key Factors Influencing Pricing
Several factors influence the pricing of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets:
Availability of Illicit Narcotics
The availability of illicit narcotics can affect the street value of prescription medications. Areas with high availability of illicit drugs may see lower street prices for prescription opioids[1].
Pharmaceutical Costs
The cost of the active ingredients and manufacturing processes can impact the final price of the medication. For example, the cost of codeine and acetaminophen can fluctuate based on global supply and demand[5].
Healthcare Policies
Healthcare policies, such as those related to workers' compensation or public health programs, can influence reimbursement rates and overall market prices. For instance, physician-dispensed drugs can be reimbursed at significantly higher rates than pharmacy-dispensed drugs[3].
Conclusion
Acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets remain a crucial medication for pain management, with a strong market demand and cost-effective profile. While prices can vary based on the distribution channel and regulatory environment, the overall trend suggests stability with potential slight increases due to inflation.
Key Takeaways
- Cost-Effectiveness: Acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets are more cost-effective compared to other opioid combinations.
- Pricing Dynamics: Retail prices are higher than institutional prices, with significant markups in illicit markets.
- Regulatory Impact: FDA restrictions on codeine use in children have not significantly impacted the adult market.
- Price Projections: Stable to slightly increasing prices in the short term, with potential reductions in the long term due to generic competition.
FAQs
Q: What is the typical dosage of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets? A: The typical dosage is 1 tablet every 4-6 hours, with a maximum of 4 tablets per day[5].
Q: How do regulatory changes affect the pricing of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets? A: Regulatory changes, such as FDA restrictions, can lead to increased scrutiny but have not significantly impacted pricing for adult use[4].
Q: What is the cost-effectiveness comparison between acetaminophen-codeine and other opioid combinations? A: Acetaminophen-codeine is generally more cost-effective than acetaminophen-hydrocodone and acetaminophen-tramadol combinations[2].
Q: How does the availability of illicit narcotics affect the street value of acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets? A: The availability of illicit narcotics can lower the street value of prescription opioids by increasing supply and competition[1].
Q: What are the potential long-term price projections for acetaminophen-codeine #3 tablets? A: Prices may decrease in the long term due to generic competition and potential reductions in pharmaceutical costs[5].
Sources
- The street value of prescription drugs - CMAJ
- Cost/effectiveness evaluation of three fixed combinations ... - Elsevier
- Impact of Physician-Dispensing of Repackaged Drugs on California ... - DIR.CA.GOV
- FDA restricts use of prescription codeine pain and cough medicines ... - FDA
- Opioids in Chronic Non-Cancer Pain: The Basics - Gov.bc.ca
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