Last updated: February 15, 2026
What is NDC 00002-2506?
This National Drug Code (NDC) corresponds to Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol, 90 mcg/actuation, marketed under the brand name ProAir HFA. The drug is indicated for relief of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma and COPD. It is a generic equivalent of branded products like Ventolin HFA.
Market Size and Demand Dynamics
Market Landscape
The U.S. respiratory inhalation market is substantial, with projected revenues approaching $4 billion annually. Key factors influencing this market include:
- Rising prevalence of asthma and COPD.
- Increased awareness and diagnosis.
- Competitive presence of both generic and branded products.
Physician Prescriptions and Usage Trends
- Approximately 24 million Americans are estimated to have asthma, with around 10 million experiencing COPD.
- Prescription trends show a steady increase, with generic inhalers comprising a growing market segment.
Supply and Competitive Landscape
Major competitors include:
- Proventil HFA (Albuterol, MDI).
- Ventolin HFA (branded).
- Numerous generic MDI products.
The presence of well-established generics intensifies price competition.
Regulatory Status
- The drug is FDA-approved as a generic inhaler.
- It has 420 approved ANDAs as of 2022, indicating a mature generic market entry.
Pricing Analysis
Historical Pricing Trends
- Average wholesale price (AWP) for inhalers like albuterol has been approximately $60–$80 per inhaler (200-dose container) in 2020.
- Generic availability has driven prices downward from branded levels exceeding $100.
Current Price Projections
Based on recent market data and trend analysis, the average retail price for a 200-dose inhaler of albuterol sulfate (NDC 00002-2506) is projected to stay within $30–$50 over the next 12 months.
Factors Affecting Price Trends
- Market penetration of generics.
- Drug formulary placements. Insurers favor generics, restricting branded access.
- Supply chain dynamics. Disruptions can cause price fluctuations but generally trend downward due to competition.
- Regulatory changes, including potential patent litigations or biosimilar entries, could alter pricing dynamics.
Future Price Projection (12–24 months)
| Scenario |
Price Range |
Drivers |
| Conservative (High Competition) |
$25–$45 |
Continued generic penetration, stable demand. |
| Moderate |
$30–$50 |
Slight market growth, minor supply disruptions. |
| Optimistic (Supply Constraints or New Entrants) |
$35–$55 |
Limited supply, potential regulatory hurdles. |
Market Risks and Opportunities
Risks:
- Entry of biosimilars or reformulations.
- Changes in reimbursement policies.
- Supply chain disruptions.
Opportunities:
- Expansion into new markets.
- Development of combination therapies.
- Increased use in hospitalization settings.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 00002-2506 is a widely used generic inhaler with a stable, mature market.
- Pricing is expected to decline gradually due to increasing generic competition.
- Future prices are forecasted within the $25–$50 range, influenced by market dynamics and healthcare policies.
- Market growth hinges on the continued prevalence of respiratory diseases and formulary decisions favoring generics.
FAQs
1. What factors influence the price of albuterol inhalers?
Market competition, generic availability, healthcare policies, and supply chain stability significantly impact prices.
2. How does generic entry affect market prices?
Generic entry typically reduces prices through increased competition, often lowering retail and wholesale costs by 30–50%.
3. Are there upcoming regulatory changes that could affect prices?
Potential biosimilar or reformulation approvals and changes in drug reimbursement policies could influence prices.
4. What is the outlook for market growth for inhalers like NDC 00002-2506?
Steady growth driven by asthma and COPD prevalence suggests sustained demand, with prices trending downward as generics dominate.
5. How does formulary placement affect the drug’s price?
Insurers prefer generic options, leading to favorable formulary placement and pressure on pricing for branded competitors.
References
[1] IQVIA, "U.S. Prescription Market Share Data," 2022
[2] FDA, "Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations," 2022
[3] GoodRx, "Albuterol Inhaler Prices," 2023
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Asthma Data," 2022
[5] MarketWatch, "Inhaler Market Trends," 2022
