Drug Price Trends for NITROFURANTOIN MCR

Average Pharmacy Cost for NITROFURANTOIN MCR

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

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	59651-0795-01	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	60687-0850-01	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	00115-1645-01	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	57664-0233-88	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 50 MG CAP	72603-0183-01	0.19391	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	50268-0624-11	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19
NITROFURANTOIN MCR 100 MG CAP	43386-0642-01	0.28203	EACH	2025-03-19

Market Analysis and Price Projections for Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystals

Introduction to Nitrofurantoin

Nitrofurantoin is a nitrofuran antibiotic widely used for the treatment and prophylaxis of acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). It has been a staple in medical practice since its FDA approval in 1953 and is known for its efficacy against a range of uropathogens, including Escherichia coli[4].

Market Overview

The global nitrofurantoin market is influenced by several key factors, including the increasing incidence of UTIs, the emergence of antibiotic resistance, and the availability of generic formulations.

Drivers of the Market

• Increasing Incidence of UTIs: The rising number of UTI cases, particularly among women, drives the demand for effective antibiotics like nitrofurantoin.
• Antibiotic Resistance: The growing resistance to other antibiotics such as co-trimoxazole, trimethoprim, fluoroquinolones, and amoxicillin has made nitrofurantoin a preferred first-line treatment, boosting its market demand[1].
• Generic Formulations: The availability of generic versions of nitrofurantoin has made the drug more accessible and affordable, contributing to its market growth.

Restraints of the Market

• Limited Pharmacokinetic Data: The current pharmacokinetic (PK) knowledge of nitrofurantoin is based on old studies, leading to high interindividual variability in PK parameters. This lack of standardized data can affect its optimal use and efficacy[1].
• Side Effects: The microcrystalline form of nitrofurantoin is associated with higher gastrointestinal side effects, which can impact patient compliance and market acceptance[1].

Market Size and Forecast

The global nitrofurantoin market is expected to grow over the forecast period from 2025 to 2031. Here are some key points:

• Historical Period: From 2019 to 2023, the market saw steady growth driven by the increasing incidence of UTIs and the preference for nitrofurantoin due to antibiotic resistance[3].
• Forecast Period: The market is projected to continue growing, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) expected to be significant due to the ongoing demand for effective UTI treatments and the expansion of healthcare services in emerging markets[3].

Regional Analysis

The market for nitrofurantoin is segmented across various regions, with different regions showing varying levels of demand.

• North America: This region is a significant market due to the high prevalence of UTIs and the well-established healthcare system. The presence of major pharmaceutical companies and a strong distribution network also contributes to the market size[3].
• Europe: Europe is another major market, with countries like Germany and Eastern European nations where nitrofurantoin is widely used. The region's stringent regulatory environment and high healthcare standards also influence the market dynamics[1][3].
• Asia-Pacific: This region is expected to show rapid growth due to the increasing healthcare expenditure and the rising incidence of UTIs in countries like India and China[3].

Price Projections

The prices of nitrofurantoin can vary significantly based on several factors, including the formulation, dosage, and geographical location.

Formulation and Dosage

• Oral Capsules: The cost of nitrofurantoin oral capsules varies by dosage. For example, a 100 mg capsule can range from $1.18 to $5.83 per unit, depending on the quantity and pharmacy[2].
• Oral Suspension: The oral suspension formulation is generally more expensive, with prices starting from around $2.06 per milliliter for a 25 mg/5 mL concentration[2].

Geographical Variations

• United States: In the U.S., the prices are influenced by insurance coverage, pharmacy choice, and whether the patient uses a discount card. For instance, using a discount card can save up to 80% on the cost of the medication[2][5].
• Other Regions: Prices in other regions can vary due to local healthcare policies, regulatory environments, and the availability of generic formulations.

Competitive Analysis

The nitrofurantoin market is competitive, with several brand and generic versions available.

• Brand Names: Macrobid and Macrodantin are well-known brand names, while generic versions are offered by multiple manufacturers[2][4].
• Generic Competition: The presence of generic formulations has increased competition, driving prices down and making the drug more affordable for a wider population[2].

Technological and Regulatory Trends

• Pharmacokinetic Studies: There is a growing need for updated pharmacokinetic studies to better understand the drug's behavior in different patient populations. This could lead to more optimized dosing regimens and improved efficacy[1].
• Regulatory Environment: Regulatory bodies are increasingly stringent about the approval and use of antibiotics, which can impact the market dynamics. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for maintaining market presence[1].

Consumer Behavior and Preferences

• Patient Compliance: Patients prefer medications with fewer side effects and easier dosing regimens. The macrocrystalline form of nitrofurantoin, which has fewer gastrointestinal side effects, is generally preferred over the microcrystalline form[1].
• Cost Sensitivity: Patients are often cost-sensitive, and the availability of discount cards and patient assistance programs can significantly influence their choice of medication[2][5].

Key Takeaways

• Growing Demand: The market for nitrofurantoin is driven by the increasing incidence of UTIs and the emergence of antibiotic resistance.
• Price Variability: Prices vary based on formulation, dosage, and geographical location.
• Generic Competition: The presence of generic formulations has made the drug more accessible and affordable.
• Need for Updated PK Studies: There is a need for updated pharmacokinetic studies to optimize dosing regimens and improve efficacy.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with regulatory requirements is crucial for maintaining market presence.

FAQs

Q: What is the primary use of nitrofurantoin? A: Nitrofurantoin is primarily used to treat acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Q: Why is nitrofurantoin preferred over other antibiotics? A: Nitrofurantoin is preferred due to its effectiveness against a range of uropathogens and its lower propensity for inducing bacterial resistance.

Q: How does the cost of nitrofurantoin vary? A: The cost of nitrofurantoin varies based on the formulation (capsules or suspension), dosage, and the pharmacy or region.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with nitrofurantoin? A: Yes, the microcrystalline form of nitrofurantoin is associated with higher gastrointestinal side effects, while the macrocrystalline form has fewer side effects.

Q: Can I use a discount card to reduce the cost of nitrofurantoin? A: Yes, using a discount card can save up to 80% on the cost of nitrofurantoin, depending on the pharmacy and the specific discount program.

Sources

1. Review of the pharmacokinetic properties of nitrofurantoin and nitroxoline - Academic.oup.com
2. Nitrofurantoin Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance - Drugs.com
3. Global Nitrofurantoin Market Report 2024 Edition - Cognitivemarketresearch.com
4. Nitrofurantoin: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action - DrugBank
5. Nitrofurantoin cost 2024: Coupons and more - MedicalNewsToday