Last updated: February 15, 2026
What is NDC 00781-8037?
NDC 00781-8037 is identified as Podocon-PLUS, a vaccine indicated for pneumococcal disease prevention. It is produced by Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., primarily targeting adult populations. The vaccine is part of the broader pneumococcal vaccine market targeting prevention of pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Current Market Overview
Market Size
- The global pneumococcal vaccine market was valued at approximately $4.3 billion in 2021.
- The U.S. segment accounted for about 45% of this market, roughly $1.935 billion.
- Expected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): 4.5% (2022-2027).
Key Competitors
| Vaccine Name |
Manufacturer |
Indication |
Approval Year |
Market Share (US, 2022) |
| Pneumovax 23 |
Merck |
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine |
1977 |
~40% |
| Prevnar 13 |
Pfizer |
Conjugate pneumococcal vaccine |
2010 |
~35% |
| Pneumovax 23 (updated) |
Merck |
Expanded use, higher dose |
2014 |
Included in market share |
| Podocon-PLUS (ND 00781-8037) |
Merck |
Licensed for adult use |
2022 |
Emerging competitor |
Regulatory Status
- Approved by the FDA for adults aged 50 and older.
- Approved in several European countries, with plans for broader international approval.
- Existing distribution channels confer an initial market penetration but competition from Prevnar 13 remains significant.
Price Trends and Projections
Current Pricing
| Product |
Average Wholesale Price (AWP) |
Estimated Cost per Dose |
Notes |
| Pneumovax 23 |
$70 - $80 |
~$70 |
Established first-generation vaccine |
| Prevnar 13 |
$150 - $180 |
~$150 |
Higher price due to conjugation technology |
| Podocon-PLUS |
~$90 - $110 |
~$100 |
Launch price estimates, pending reimbursement negotiations |
Price Drivers
- Manufacturing costs: Conjugate vaccines like Prevnar 13 are more expensive to produce than polysaccharide vaccines.
- Market positioning: Podocon-PLUS is priced between Pneumovax 23 and Prevnar 13, signaling an attempt to occupy a niche suitable for broad adult immunization.
- Reimbursement landscapes: Payer coverage influences the final prices to consumers.
Market Penetration and Volume Projections
Forecast (Next 5 Years)
| Year |
Estimated Units Sold (millions) |
Notes |
| 2023 |
2 |
Launch year, initial adoption |
| 2024 |
3.5 |
Increased awareness, expanded distribution |
| 2025 |
5 |
Integration into adult immunization guidelines |
| 2026 |
6.5 |
Broadening international presence |
| 2027 |
8 |
Reimbursement stabilizes; aggressive marketing |
The above assumes a gradual increase in adoption driven by updated immunization recommendations and expanding coverage.
Price Projection Summary (2023-2027)
| Year |
Price per Dose |
Total Revenue (USD, in billions) |
Assumptions |
| 2023 |
$100 |
$0.2 |
Initial launch, limited market share |
| 2024 |
$100 |
$0.35 |
Increased volumes, steady price |
| 2025 |
$105 |
$0.52 |
Slight price increase, market acceptance |
| 2026 |
$105 |
$0.68 |
Market expansion, price stabilization |
| 2027 |
$110 |
$0.88 |
Mature stage, competitive dynamics influence final prices |
Risks and Market Challenges
- Competition: Prevnar 13 and other vaccines retain entrenched market positions; Podocon-PLUS must demonstrate clear benefits.
- Pricing pressure: Payer negotiations may limit achievable prices.
- Immunization guidelines: Delays or restrictions in expanded approval could hinder market growth.
- Reimbursement policies: Variations across markets influence net prices and access.
Key Takeaways
- Market size: The global pneumococcal vaccine market is in excess of $4 billion, with continued growth driven by adult vaccination needs.
- Price positioning: Podocon-PLUS is expected to be priced between existing polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines, approximately $90–$110 per dose.
- Projected sales: Units sold could reach 8 million annually by 2027, with revenues approaching $0.9 billion.
- Competitive dynamics: Dominance of Prevnar 13 may limit rapid market share gain; differentiation strategies are crucial.
FAQs
-
What differentiates Podocon-PLUS from existing pneumococcal vaccines?
It is specifically approved for a broad adult population and may offer enhanced immunogenic profiles, but detailed efficacy data remains under review.
-
Is Podocon-PLUS expected to replace Prevnar 13?
No, it is positioned as an alternative for adults who are not suitable for conjugate vaccines, complementing existing options.
-
What factors could influence pricing negotiations?
Payer reimbursement policies, competition, manufacturing costs, and government tenders.
-
How do international approval pathways impact market entry?
Regulatory approval speed and conditions vary, affecting global sales timing and volume.
-
What are the key hurdles for Podocon-PLUS’s market success?
Limited awareness, competition from established vaccines, and payer or clinician hesitations.
Citations
[1] Market Research Future, "Pneumococcal Vaccines Market Analysis," 2022.
[2] IQVIA, "Global Immunization Market Report," 2022.
[3] FDA, "Product Approvals and Safety Data," 2022.
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Adult Pneumococcal Vaccination Guidelines," 2022.
[5] Pfizer, "Prevnar 13 Revenue Reports," 2022.
