Drug Price Trends for GUAIFENESIN ER

Average Pharmacy Cost for GUAIFENESIN ER

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

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	51660-0070-21	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	68001-0561-17	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	68094-0048-61	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	68094-0048-59	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	00536-1163-61	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	70010-0199-05	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19
GUAIFENESIN ER 600 MG TABLET	51660-0566-21	0.32454	EACH	2025-02-19

Market Analysis and Price Projections for Guaifenesin ER

Market Overview

Guaifenesin, an expectorant widely used in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as cough, nasal congestion, and bronchitis, is a key component in the pharmaceutical industry. The extended-release (ER) formulation of guaifenesin, particularly when combined with other active ingredients like pseudoephedrine, is gaining significant traction due to its efficacy and convenience.

Global Market Size and Growth

The global guaifenesin market is projected to experience substantial growth over the coming years. Here are some key statistics:

• The global guaifenesin market is expected to reach US$ 2.7 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2023 to 2033[1].
• For the ER formulation specifically, the market is forecasted to reach USD 95 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of around 3.1% from 2022 to 2027[2][3].

Segmentation and Applications

Guaifenesin is available in various forms, including:

• Tablets: Leading the market with a share of 42.7% in 2023[1].
• Granules: Dissolving granules are another popular form.
• Syrups: Liquid formulations, especially for pediatric use.
• Extended-Release Tablets: These are particularly popular for their convenience and prolonged efficacy in managing cough and nasal congestion[2][3].

Distribution Channels

The market is segmented by distribution channels, with:

• Hospital Pharmacies: Holding the largest revenue share of 46.5% in the guaifenesin market[1].
• Retail Pharmacies: Significant players, especially for over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
• Online Pharmacies: Growing rapidly due to increased consumer preference for online shopping[1].

Regional Trends

• North America: Leads the market with a significant share of 39.7% in 2023, driven by developing medical infrastructure and rising health expenditure[1][3].
• Asia Pacific: Expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period due to the rising prevalence of respiratory ailments and expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities in countries like China and India[1].

Drivers of the Market

• Increasing Prevalence of Respiratory Conditions: Conditions such as COPD, asthma, and acute respiratory infections drive the demand for guaifenesin. For instance, COPD affected approximately 251 million individuals globally in 2022[1].
• Pharmaceutical Advancements: Innovations in drug formulations and combinations with other active ingredients enhance the market presence of guaifenesin[1][3].
• COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic accelerated the growth of the pharmaceutical sector, including the demand for cough and cold medications, which is expected to continue post-pandemic[2][3].

Challenges and Restraints

• Availability of Substitutes: The presence of substitute drugs can act as a restraint on market growth[2][3].
• Potential Side Effects: Guaifenesin, like any medication, can have side effects, which may deter some consumers[2][3].
• Regulatory Changes: Negotiations and price controls, such as those implemented by the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, could impact the pricing of prescription drugs, including guaifenesin/pseudoephedrine combinations[2].

Future Pricing Trends

• Regulatory Influences: Changes in regulatory policies, such as price negotiations and controls, can affect the pricing of guaifenesin products[2].
• Market Competition: The availability of generic versions and substitutes could pressure prices downward[2].
• Demand and Supply Dynamics: Increased demand due to health crises could lead to temporary price fluctuations[2].

Current Pricing

The current prices for guaifenesin ER formulations vary based on the quantity and pharmacy:

• Guaifenesin 400 mg Oral Tablet: Around $9.90 for a supply of 20 tablets[4].
• Guaifenesin/Pseudoephedrine (600 mg-60 mg) Oral Tablet, Extended Release: Around $11 for a supply of 18 tablets[2][4].

Key Players Analysis

Major players in the guaifenesin market are engaged in various strategies to enhance their market position:

• Product Development: Focus on innovative drug formulations and combination therapies to address multiple respiratory symptoms[1].
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with pharmaceutical distributors and healthcare providers to enhance market penetration and streamline supply chains[1].
• Market Expansion: Targeting growth in emerging markets where healthcare access and awareness of respiratory treatments are increasing[1].

Key players include Perrigo Company plc, Lupin, Johnson & Johnson, Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC, and others[1].

Opportunities in Emerging Markets

The guaifenesin market presents significant growth opportunities in emerging economies:

• India and Brazil: These countries have seen a notable rise in respiratory ailments, driving the demand for expectorants like guaifenesin. The Indian pharmaceutical sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10%, indicating robust market potential[1].

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a dual impact on the guaifenesin market:

• Initial Disruptions: Production halts, supply chain disturbances, and lockdown restrictions affected the pharmaceutical and hospital sectors[3].
• Surging Demand: The recovery phase saw a significant increase in the demand for cough and cold medications, leading to growth opportunities in the market[2][3].

"The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the growth of the pharmaceutical sector, including the demand for cough and cold medications, which is expected to continue post-pandemic"[3].

Key Takeaways

• The global guaifenesin market is expected to reach US$ 2.7 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2023 to 2033[1].
• The ER formulation market is projected to reach USD 95 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of around 3.1% from 2022 to 2027[2][3].
• North America leads the market, but the Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period[1][3].
• The demand is driven by increasing respiratory conditions, pharmaceutical advancements, and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on healthcare[1][2][3].

FAQs

Q: What is the projected market size of the global guaifenesin market by 2033? A: The global guaifenesin market is forecasted to reach US$ 2.7 billion by 2033[1].

Q: What are the main drivers of the guaifenesin market? A: The main drivers include increasing demand for respiratory health products, pharmaceutical and biotech advancements, and geographical growth, particularly in North America[1][2][3].

Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the guaifenesin market? A: The pandemic created a surge in demand for cough and cold medications, leading to growth opportunities in the market, despite initial disruptions in production and supply chains[2][3].

Q: What are the challenges faced by the guaifenesin market? A: The market faces challenges from the availability of substitutes, potential side effects, and stringent regulations against certain cough suppressants[2][3].

Q: What are the future pricing trends for guaifenesin ER formulations? A: Future pricing trends may be influenced by regulatory changes, market competition, and demand and supply dynamics. Current prices are relatively stable but could fluctuate based on these factors[2][4].

Cited Sources:

1. Market.us, "Guaifenesin Market Size, Share | CAGR Of 7.4%".
2. DrugPatentWatch, "Pharmaceutical drug prices and trends for SM GUAIFENESIN-PSE ER".
3. IndustryARC, "Guaifenesin Market Size Report, 2022-2027".
4. Drugs.com, "Guaifenesin Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance".
5. Global Growth Insights, "Guaifenesin (API) Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis, 2025-2033".