Drug Price Trends for HYDROCODONE ER

Average Pharmacy Cost for HYDROCODONE ER

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

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG TABLET	47781-0392-60	8.01917	EACH	2025-06-18
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG TABLET	47781-0392-60	8.01383	EACH	2025-05-21
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG TABLET	47781-0392-60	8.01561	EACH	2025-04-23
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG TABLET	47781-0392-60	8.01382	EACH	2025-03-19
HYDROCODONE ER 15 MG CAPSULE	47781-0410-60	5.93517	EACH	2025-02-19
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG CAPSULE	47781-0411-60	6.87480	EACH	2025-02-19
HYDROCODONE ER 20 MG TABLET	47781-0392-60	8.01917	EACH	2025-02-19

Market Analysis and Price Projections for Hydrocodone ER

Introduction

Hydrocodone ER, an extended-release formulation of hydrocodone bitartrate, is a potent opioid analgesic used for the management of severe, chronic pain. This analysis will delve into the market dynamics, efficacy, safety, and price projections for Hydrocodone ER, particularly focusing on its brand name version, Hysingla ER.

Market Size and Growth

The North America opioids market, which includes Hydrocodone ER, was estimated to be around USD 14.5 billion in 2022. This market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.8% from 2023 to 2030. The extended-release (ER)/long-acting opioids segment, where Hydrocodone ER is categorized, dominated the market with a 53.8% revenue share in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 1.1% over the forecast period[3].

Efficacy of Hydrocodone ER

Hydrocodone ER, specifically Hysingla ER, has been shown to provide effective analgesia for patients with uncontrolled moderate to severe chronic low back pain. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients receiving Hysingla ER at doses ranging from 20 to 120 mg once daily demonstrated significantly lower pain scores compared to those on placebo at week 12. The study also highlighted higher responder rates (≥ 30% and ≥ 50% pain reduction) and improved patient global impression of change (PGIC) ratings in the Hysingla ER group[1].

Safety and Adverse Events

The safety profile of Hydrocodone ER is consistent with other CII ER opioid analgesics. Common adverse events include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dizziness. Long-term safety data is limited, but available studies indicate that the formulation is resistant to dose-dumping in the presence of alcoholic beverages and is not susceptible to vaporizing (smoking)[1].

Abuse-Deterrent Properties

Hydrocodone ER formulations, such as Hysingla ER, are designed with abuse-deterrent properties to mitigate the risk of misuse and abuse. These properties include resistance to crushing and extraction, which reduces the potential for intravenous or nasal administration[1][4].

Price Projections

The cost of Hydrocodone ER, particularly Hysingla ER, varies based on the dosage and pharmacy.

• 20 mg Oral Tablet, Extended Release: Around $771 for a supply of 60 tablets[2].
• 30 mg Oral Tablet, Extended Release: Approximately $1,121 for a supply of 60 tablets[2].
• 80 mg Oral Tablet, Extended Release: Around $2,805 for a supply of 60 tablets[2].
• 100 mg Oral Tablet, Extended Release: Approximately $3,567 for a supply of 60 tablets[2].

Generic versions of Hydrocodone ER are also available, which can significantly reduce the cost. For example, a generic 20 mg oral tablet, extended release, can cost around $529 for a supply of 60 tablets[5].

Market Factors Influencing Price

Several factors influence the pricing of Hydrocodone ER:

• Demand for Chronic Pain Management: The increasing incidence of chronic pain conditions, such as lower back pain and osteoarthritis, drives the demand for opioids like Hydrocodone ER[3].
• Abuse-Deterrent Formulations: The development and approval of abuse-deterrent formulations can impact pricing due to the added value of these safety features[1][4].
• Competition and Generic Availability: The availability of generic versions can reduce the market price of brand-name drugs like Hysingla ER[2][5].
• Regulatory Environment: FDA regulations and the requirement for Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) can affect the cost and availability of these medications[4].

Regional Market Outlook

The North America market, particularly the U.S. and Canada, is a significant region for the opioids market. The presence of key market players, such as Purdue Pharma L.P., and the high prices attached to ER formulations contribute to the market growth in this region[3].

Public Health Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny

The approval and marketing of Hydrocodone ER products have been controversial due to concerns about misuse, abuse, and their impact on public health. The FDA and other regulatory bodies have implemented strict guidelines, including REMS and postmarketing studies, to monitor and mitigate these risks[4].

Key Takeaways

• Efficacy: Hydrocodone ER is effective for managing chronic pain, particularly for patients with uncontrolled moderate to severe low back pain.
• Safety: Common adverse events are consistent with other opioid analgesics, and the formulation has abuse-deterrent properties.
• Market Growth: The ER/long-acting opioids segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.1% from 2023 to 2030.
• Pricing: Prices vary by dosage, with generic versions offering significant cost savings.
• Regulatory Environment: Strict regulations and REMS are in place to manage public health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Hydrocodone ER used for? A: Hydrocodone ER is used for the management of severe, chronic pain that requires continuous, around-the-clock opioid treatment.

Q: What are the common adverse events associated with Hydrocodone ER? A: Common adverse events include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dizziness.

Q: Does Hydrocodone ER have abuse-deterrent properties? A: Yes, formulations like Hysingla ER are designed with abuse-deterrent properties to reduce the risk of misuse and abuse.

Q: How much does Hydrocodone ER cost? A: The cost varies by dosage, but for example, a 20 mg oral tablet, extended release, can cost around $771 for a supply of 60 tablets.

Q: Are generic versions of Hydrocodone ER available? A: Yes, generic versions are available and can significantly reduce the cost compared to brand-name versions.

Cited Sources

1. Hydrocodone Bitartrate Extended-Release Tablets (Hysingla ER), C-II - PBM VA.
2. Hysingla ER Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance - Drugs.com.
3. North America Opioids Market Size & Share Report, 2030 - Grand View Research.
4. Hydrocodone Bitartrate Extended-release Capsules (ZOHYDRO ER) - PBM VA.
5. Hydrocodone Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance - Drugs.com.

Last updated: 2024-12-31