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Drug Price Trends for PHENYTOIN SOD EXT
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Average Pharmacy Cost for PHENYTOIN SOD EXT
Drug Name | NDC | Price/Unit ($) | Unit | Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 65162-0212-11 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 57664-0808-18 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 65162-0212-10 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 00904-6187-61 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 57664-0808-88 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 51672-4111-01 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
PHENYTOIN SOD EXT 100 MG CAP | 51672-4111-03 | 0.19338 | EACH | 2025-01-22 |
>Drug Name | >NDC | >Price/Unit ($) | >Unit | >Date |
Market Analysis and Price Projections for Phenytoin Sodium Extended Release
Introduction
Phenytoin sodium, commonly known by the brand name Dilantin, is an antiepileptic drug used to treat epilepsy and prevent seizures. The market dynamics of this drug have been subject to significant scrutiny, particularly due to pricing controversies involving major pharmaceutical companies. Here, we will delve into the market analysis, price projections, and the impact of recent events on the pricing of phenytoin sodium extended release.
Market Overview
The global phenytoin sodium market is expected to experience substantial growth from 2020 to 2025, driven by the increasing prevalence of epilepsy and the need for effective antiepileptic medications. The market is segmented by type (pill, injection, and others), application (epilepsy treatment, nerve analgesia, and others), and region, with North America anticipated to grow at the highest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during this period[3].
Pricing Controversy
A significant event that has shaped the market for phenytoin sodium is the pricing controversy involving Pfizer and Flynn Pharma. In 2012, Pfizer and Flynn Pharma entered into an agreement where Pfizer would supply phenytoin sodium capsules to Flynn at significantly higher prices than what Pfizer had previously charged to the NHS. Flynn then sold these capsules to wholesalers and pharmacies at prices that were between 2,300% and 2,600% higher than Pfizer's pre-2012 prices. This led to a dramatic increase in the NHS's annual expenditure on phenytoin sodium capsules from approximately £2 million to £50 million in 2013[1][2].
Regulatory Actions
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK investigated this price hike and found that both Pfizer and Flynn had abused their dominant positions by imposing unfairly high prices. The CMA's decision was upheld by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) and the Court of Appeal, highlighting the regulatory scrutiny that pharmaceutical companies face when engaging in such practices[1][2].
Current Pricing
As of recent data, the cost of phenytoin sodium extended release capsules varies depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. For example, a 100 mg oral capsule, extended release, can cost around $187 for a supply of 100 capsules in the U.S., with prices ranging from $1.87 to $2.05 per unit[5].
Price Projections
Given the regulatory environment and market dynamics, here are some key points to consider for price projections:
Regulatory Impact
The fines and regulatory actions against Pfizer and Flynn Pharma are likely to deter similar price gouging practices in the future. This could stabilize prices and prevent sudden spikes, although it does not guarantee that prices will decrease significantly.
Market Growth
The global phenytoin sodium market is expected to grow, driven by increasing demand for epilepsy treatments. However, this growth may not necessarily translate into higher prices if competition and regulatory oversight are effective.
Generic Competition
The availability of generic versions of phenytoin sodium can help keep prices in check. Generic competition often leads to lower prices as multiple manufacturers enter the market[5].
Regional Variations
Prices can vary significantly by region due to different regulatory frameworks, healthcare systems, and market conditions. For instance, the prices in the U.S. may differ substantially from those in the UK or other countries.
Key Factors Influencing Prices
Demand and Supply
The demand for phenytoin sodium is driven by the prevalence of epilepsy, which is increasing globally. However, supply chain disruptions or changes in manufacturing costs can impact prices.
Regulatory Environment
Regulatory actions, such as those taken by the CMA, play a crucial role in controlling prices. Strict regulations can prevent price gouging and ensure fair pricing practices.
Competition
The presence of generic competitors and other antiepileptic drugs can influence the pricing of phenytoin sodium. Increased competition generally leads to lower prices.
Future Outlook
Market Growth
The global phenytoin sodium market is poised for significant growth, driven by the increasing need for effective epilepsy treatments. This growth is expected to be sustained over the next few years, although prices may stabilize due to regulatory oversight and competition[3].
Pricing Stability
Given the regulatory actions and the presence of generic competitors, prices for phenytoin sodium extended release are likely to remain stable or experience moderate increases rather than the dramatic hikes seen in the past.
Illustrative Statistics
- The NHS's annual expenditure on phenytoin sodium capsules increased from £2 million to £50 million in 2013 due to the price hike by Pfizer and Flynn Pharma[1][2].
- The global phenytoin sodium market is expected to grow at an impressive CAGR from 2020 to 2025[3].
- The cost of a 100 mg oral capsule, extended release, of phenytoin sodium can range from $1.87 to $2.05 per unit in the U.S.[5].
Quotes from Industry Experts
- "While businesses are generally free to set prices as they see fit, those that hold a dominant position have a responsibility to ensure that their conduct does not impair genuine competition and that their prices are not excessive and unfair," said Ann Pope, the CMA’s senior director of antitrust enforcement[2].
Highlight and Citation
"The prices that the CMA is concerned about in this case are very high compared with those prices previously charged and have led to a big increase in the NHS bill for what is a very important drug for tens of thousands of patients." - Ann Pope, CMA’s senior director of antitrust enforcement[2].
Key Takeaways
- The phenytoin sodium market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing prevalence of epilepsy.
- Regulatory actions have been taken to address excessive pricing practices by dominant market players.
- Generic competition and regulatory oversight are likely to stabilize prices.
- Regional variations in pricing will continue due to different market conditions and regulatory frameworks.
FAQs
Q: What was the impact of the price hike by Pfizer and Flynn Pharma on the NHS? A: The price hike led to a significant increase in the NHS's annual expenditure on phenytoin sodium capsules from approximately £2 million to £50 million in 2013[1][2].
Q: What regulatory actions were taken against Pfizer and Flynn Pharma? A: The CMA found that both companies had abused their dominant positions by imposing unfairly high prices. The decision was upheld by the CAT and the Court of Appeal[1][2].
Q: How does generic competition affect the pricing of phenytoin sodium? A: Generic competition generally leads to lower prices as multiple manufacturers enter the market, increasing supply and reducing the market power of any single company[5].
Q: What is the expected growth rate of the global phenytoin sodium market? A: The global phenytoin sodium market is expected to grow at an impressive CAGR from 2020 to 2025[3].
Q: What factors influence the pricing of phenytoin sodium extended release? A: Factors include demand and supply dynamics, regulatory environment, competition from generic and other antiepileptic drugs, and regional market conditions.
Sources Cited
- Decision - Unfair pricing in respect of the supply of phenytoin sodium capsules. UK Government, 2022.
- Pfizer could face large fine over pricing of generic phenytoin. The BMJ, 2016.
- Phenytoin Sodium Market Is Likely to Experience a Tremendous Growth during 2020-2025. OpenPR, 2020.
- EXTENDED PHENYTOIN SODIUM capsule. DailyMed.
- Dilantin Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance. Drugs.com.
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