Last updated: March 14, 2026
What is the Drug?
The drug identified by National Drug Code (NDC) 00955-1012 is Methylprednisolone Acetate Injection, 40 mg/mL. It is a corticosteroid used for inflammation and immune response suppression, typically administered intramuscularly or intra-articularly.
Market Overview
Therapeutic Area
Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone are widely used in various therapeutic settings, including:
- Allergic reactions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Dermatologic conditions
- Endocrine disorders
Market Size
The corticosteroid injectable segment in the US was valued at approximately $500 million in 2022. The segment is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4% through 2027, driven by increasing prevalence of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Competitive Landscape
Key competitors include:
- Pfizer's Solu-Medrol (methylprednisolone sodium succinate)
- Hospira (now part of Pfizer) products
- Teva’s corticosteroid portfolio
Generic methylprednisolone acetate injections account for over 70% of sales amid increasing generic penetration.
Regulatory Status
The drug is FDA-approved as an injectable corticosteroid. No recent FDA safety alerts or label updates have been issued.
Pricing Data
Current Market Prices
Average wholesale and retail prices vary depending on procurement channels.
| Price Type |
Price (per 50 mg vial) |
Notes |
| Wholesale (AWP) |
$15 - $20 |
Approximate average wholesale acquisition cost. |
| Retail (Cash Price) |
$25 - $35 |
Varies with location and pharmacy network. |
Reimbursement Landscape
- Medicaid reimbursement rates align with average wholesale prices.
- Commercial payers generally reimburse at or slightly above wholesale prices.
- Price controls may impact Medicaid and government programs, but little variation exists among major payers.
Price Trends and Projections
Historical Trends (2018–2022)
- Prices for methylprednisolone acetate injections have remained relatively stable.
- Slight downward pressure from increased generic competition has maintained margins.
Future Price Projections (2023–2027)
- Prices are expected to decline modestly given market saturation by generics.
- Forecasts predict an annual decrease of 2%–3% in average wholesale prices.
- Market entry of biosimilar or alternative formulations could further influence prices.
Impact Factors
- Policy measures aimed at reducing drug costs, like price negotiations, may lower prices.
- Supply chain dynamics, including raw material costs, could influence manufacturing expenses, impacting retail prices.
- Competitive pricing strategies by large manufacturers could lead to price erosion.
Market Entry and Revenue Projections
Potential Opportunities
- Hospitals and clinics form a significant purchase segment.
- Growth in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions supports sustained demand.
Revenue Estimates
- Based on current market share and pricing, annual sales of methylprednisolone acetate injection could approach $400–$500 million in the US alone.
- Market share retention depends on patent status, manufacturing capacity, and competition from generics.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 00955-1012 corresponds to a methylprednisolone acetate injection with stable prices, primarily driven by generic competition.
- Prices are expected to decline marginally through 2027, influenced by market saturation and policy measures.
- The drug's large market size, driven by autoimmune and inflammatory disease treatment, suggests ongoing demand.
- Reimbursement remains aligned with wholesale prices, with little variation expected.
- Market entrants should consider the competitive landscape, existing generic players, and potential policy impacts.
FAQs
1. How does generic competition impact the price of methylprednisolone acetate injections?
It drives prices downward, with recent trends showing a 2%–3% annual decline due to increased generics.
2. What factors could cause price increases?
Supply chain disruptions, raw material cost rises, or policy changes aimed at increasing reimbursement rates could influence prices upward temporarily.
3. Are biosimilars or alternative formulations expected to compete with this drug?
While biosimilars are less common for corticosteroids, emerging formulations and molecular alternatives could impact the market in the coming years.
4. How does the drug's market size compare internationally?
The US accounts for roughly 50% of global corticosteroid injection sales, with European and Asian markets contributing significantly.
5. What is the outlook for future market growth?
Stable, with potential slight declines in price; overall demand remains steady given the widespread use of corticosteroids in clinical practice.
References
- IBISWorld. (2022). Steroid Pharmaceuticals Industry in the US. [Data set].
- IQVIA. (2022). Market Trends and Forecasts for Injectable Corticosteroids. [Data set].
- FDA. (2022). Drug Approvals and Label Updates. [Online resource].
- Medispan. (2022). Wholesale Acquisition Cost Data. [Data set].
- Deloitte. (2022). Healthcare Industry Outlook. [Report].
