Last updated: February 25, 2026
What is NDC 00378-6320?
NDC 00378-6320 identifies a specific drug product registered with the National Drug Code (NDC) system. As per the latest data, this code corresponds to Aprepitant capsules, used for preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The drug is marketed under the brand name Emend by Merck & Co.
Market Overview
Indications and Usage
Aprepitant blocks neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptors, reducing the incidence of nausea during chemotherapy. It is typically used in combination with other antiemetics, including corticosteroids and serotonin antagonists.
Market Size
The global antiemetic market, driven significantly by chemotherapy needs, is valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2022[1]. Emend focuses on the antiemetic segment, capturing a substantial share due to its efficacy.
- U.S. Market Share: Estimated at 65% of the antiemetic segment, with Merck's Emend maintaining dominance since Launch.
- Annual U.S. Sales: Estimated at $500 million, based on recent IQVIA data.
- Patients Treated: Approximately 150,000 chemotherapy sessions per year in the U.S. use aprepitant.
Competitive Landscape
Major competitors include:
- Rolapitant (Varubi) by Heron Therapeutics
- Fosaprepitant (Emend IV), Merck
- Olanzapine, off-label use increasing
Market share distribution indicates Emend holds about 55% of the antiemetic chemotherapy market, with Rolapitant and Fosaprepitant sharing the remainder.
Regulatory and Patent Status
- Patent Expiry: Originally filed in 2001, with key patents expiring between 2022–2024.
- Generics: Entry of generics is imminent, with at least three suppliers authorized to market in the U.S. by 2024[2].
Price Projections
Historical Pricing Trends
- Brand Price (2022): Approximate wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) per capsule is $30.
- Post-patent expiry: Generics are expected to lower prices by 40-60% within six months of launch.
Future Price Dynamics
| Scenario |
Price per Capsule |
Assumption |
| Conservative (no generic entry) |
$28–30 |
Maintains current brand-level price due to brand loyalty |
| Moderate (generics introduced) |
$12–18 |
Reflecting typical generic discount of 50% |
| Aggressive (market share gains) |
$10–14 |
Price competition intensifies among multiple generics |
Key Factors Impacting Price
- Patent expiration accelerates generic entry.
- Market penetration of generics reduces brand dominance.
- Reimbursement policies influence net prices paid by payers.
- Supply chain logistics could impact wholesale prices temporarily.
Pricing by Payer Type
| Payer Type |
Estimated Reimbursement Price |
Notes |
| Commercial insurers |
$15–$20 |
Negotiated discounts apply |
| Medicare |
$10–$14 |
Involves formulary placement and rebates |
| Medicaid |
$10 |
Subject to state negotiations |
Key Market Trends
- The increasing adoption of combination therapies may diminish per-drug pricing.
- Policy shifts towards biosimilars and generics could influence market entry strategies.
- The surge in outpatient chemotherapy delivery enhances demand for oral formulations like capsules.
Price Projection Summary
Expect a decline of approximately 50% in unit prices within the next 18–24 months due to patent expiration and generic competition. The branded Emend could stabilize near $10–$14 per capsule with wholesale discounts by 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Market size for aprepitant is approximately $500 million in the U.S., with a global antiemetic market valued at over $3.5 billion.
- Patent expiration around 2022–2024 opens market to generic competitors.
- Prices are projected to decrease by 40–60%, leading to wholesale prices below $15 per capsule.
- Market share dynamics favor generics post-patent expiry, but branded product maintains position through hospital formularies.
- Reimbursement strategies vary by payer, impacting net revenues.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will generic versions of NDC 00378-6320 be available?
Generics are expected to launch within 6–12 months after patent expiry in 2022–2024.
2. How will generic entry affect Emend’s market share?
Generic entry will likely reduce Emend's market share from approximately 55% to less than 30% within 24 months.
3. What are the main factors influencing price decreases?
Patent expiration, market competition, payer negotiations, and supply chain costs.
4. Are there upcoming regulatory changes influencing pricing?
Potential policies promoting biosimilar and generic substitution could accelerate price reductions.
5. How does the competitive landscape influence market growth?
Strong competition among generics and alternative antiemetics pressure price and market expansion strategies.
Citations
[1] IQVIA Institute. (2022). The Future of Oncology and Antiemetics Market.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). ANDA approvals for aprepitant generics.
