Share This Page
Drug Price Trends for HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN
✉ Email this page to a colleague
Average Pharmacy Cost for HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN
| Drug Name | NDC | Price/Unit ($) | Unit | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN 10-200 | 53746-0117-01 | 3.22954 | EACH | 2025-06-18 |
| HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN 7.5-200 | 53746-0145-01 | 0.48378 | EACH | 2025-06-18 |
| HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN 5-200 MG | 53746-0146-01 | 2.10557 | EACH | 2025-06-18 |
| HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN 7.5-200 | 13107-0004-01 | 0.48378 | EACH | 2025-06-18 |
| HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN 10-200 | 00603-3586-21 | 3.03486 | EACH | 2025-05-21 |
| >Drug Name | >NDC | >Price/Unit ($) | >Unit | >Date |
Market Analysis and Price Projections for Hydrocodone-Ibuprofen
Introduction
Hydrocodone-ibuprofen, commonly known by the brand name Vicoprofen, is a fixed-dose combination analgesic medication used for short-term relief of severe pain. This combination drug leverages the analgesic and antitussive properties of hydrocodone along with the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties of ibuprofen.
Market Size and Historical Sales
As of 2016, the hydrocodone/ibuprofen tablets (7.5 mg/200 mg) had an estimated market size of $15.7 million for the 12 months preceding May 2016[1]. In 2003, at the time of the approval announcement for the first generic equivalent, annual sales of brand name Vicoprofen totaled $104 million[1].
Clinical Utility and Synergistic Effects
The combination of hydrocodone and ibuprofen has been shown to have synergistic analgesic interactions. Studies using the mouse radiant heat tail-flick nociception model demonstrated that while ibuprofen alone was inactive in this model of moderate to severe pain, its inclusion with hydrocodone significantly enhanced the analgesic response. This synergy suggests that the combination is more effective than either drug alone[2].
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacokinetics of hydrocodone and ibuprofen do not significantly affect each other. Peak blood levels of hydrocodone are reached 1.7 hours after administration, and ibuprofen peaks at 1.8 hours. This timing ensures that the therapeutic effects of both drugs are optimized without compromising each other's absorption or metabolism[1].
Cost and Pricing
The average wholesale price (AWP) of generic Vicoprofen varies based on the strength of the preparation. For example, as of October 2017, the AWP for a 100-count bottle of 7.5 mg/200 mg strength was $114.62, while a 100-count of 5 mg/200 mg strength was $356.62, and a 100-count of 10 mg/200 mg strength was $470.35[1].
Utilization Trends
The utilization of hydrocodone-ibuprofen has been influenced by several factors, including regulatory changes. The rescheduling of hydrocodone from Schedule III to Schedule II in October 2014 led to a reduction in the number of prescriptions dispensed by approximately 5 million prescriptions per quarter[4].
Market Projections
Overall Pharmaceutical Expenditures
For 2024, overall prescription drug spending is expected to rise by 10.0% to 12.0%. This growth is driven by increased utilization, new drug approvals, and price increases. While these projections are broad, they indicate a growing demand for pharmaceuticals, which could positively impact the market for hydrocodone-ibuprofen[3].
Specific to Pain Management
Pain management medications, including combination analgesics like hydrocodone-ibuprofen, are expected to continue playing a significant role in pharmaceutical expenditures. The synergy between hydrocodone and ibuprofen makes this combination particularly effective, which could sustain or increase its market share in the pain management sector.
Factors Influencing Price Projections
Regulatory Environment
Changes in regulatory policies, such as the rescheduling of hydrocodone, can impact the availability and cost of the drug. Stricter regulations may lead to higher costs due to increased oversight and compliance requirements[4].
Generic Competition
The availability of generic versions of Vicoprofen has significantly impacted pricing. Generic equivalents are generally cheaper, which can drive down the overall market price for the drug[1].
Demand and Utilization
Increased demand for effective pain management solutions, coupled with the synergistic benefits of hydrocodone-ibuprofen, can drive up prices if supply does not meet demand.
Potential Price Scenarios
- Stable Pricing: If the current supply and demand balance is maintained, and no significant regulatory changes occur, prices for hydrocodone-ibuprofen could remain relatively stable.
- Price Increase: With anticipated growth in pharmaceutical expenditures and potential increases in demand for pain management medications, prices could rise by 5-10% annually.
- Price Decrease: Increased competition from generic versions and potential reductions in production costs could lead to a decrease in prices, although this is less likely given the current market trends.
Conclusion
The market for hydrocodone-ibuprofen is influenced by a combination of clinical efficacy, regulatory environment, and market dynamics. While overall pharmaceutical expenditures are expected to rise, the specific market for hydrocodone-ibuprofen will be shaped by its unique synergistic benefits, regulatory changes, and the presence of generic competition.
Key Takeaways
- Hydrocodone-ibuprofen combines the analgesic properties of hydrocodone with the anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties of ibuprofen.
- The drug has shown synergistic analgesic interactions, enhancing its therapeutic efficacy.
- Market size and sales have been significant, with annual sales of brand name Vicoprofen totaling $104 million in 2003.
- Regulatory changes, such as the rescheduling of hydrocodone, have impacted prescription volumes.
- Price projections are influenced by overall pharmaceutical expenditure growth, generic competition, and demand for pain management solutions.
FAQs
Q: What are the primary components of Vicoprofen? A: Vicoprofen is a combination of hydrocodone, an opioid analgesic, and ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)[1].
Q: How does the combination of hydrocodone and ibuprofen enhance pain relief? A: The combination shows synergistic analgesic interactions, meaning that the therapeutic effect is greater than the sum of the effects of each drug alone[2].
Q: What was the impact of rescheduling hydrocodone on its prescription volume? A: The rescheduling of hydrocodone from Schedule III to Schedule II led to a reduction in the number of prescriptions dispensed by approximately 5 million prescriptions per quarter[4].
Q: How does the availability of generic versions affect the pricing of Vicoprofen? A: The availability of generic versions generally reduces the price of the drug, making it more affordable for patients[1].
Q: What are the expected trends in pharmaceutical expenditures for 2024? A: Overall prescription drug spending is expected to rise by 10.0% to 12.0% in 2024, driven by increased utilization, new drug approvals, and price increases[3].
Sources
- Wikipedia: Hydrocodone/ibuprofen
- PubMed: The synergistic analgesic interactions between hydrocodone and ibuprofen
- PubMed: National trends in prescription drug expenditures and projections for 2024
- FDA: Apadaz™ (Benzhydrocodone HCl/Acetaminophen) - FDA
- Drugs.com: Hydrocodone/ibuprofen Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance Programs
More… ↓
