Last updated: March 2, 2026
What is NDC 16729-0073?
NDC 16729-0073 refers to a specific pharmaceutical product listed in the National Drug Code (NDC) database. It is a monoclonal antibody used in cancer therapy. The product is marketed as Elahere (generic: mirvetuximab soravtansine), approved by the FDA for treating folate receptor-alpha (FRα)-positive advanced ovarian cancer that has progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy.
Market Landscape
Therapeutic Area
The drug targets ovarian cancer, specifically platinum-resistant cases. Ovarian cancer ranks among the leading causes of gynecologic cancer-related deaths in the US. The treatment market for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) has been expanding, driven by advances in targeted therapies.
Competitive Environment
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Key competitors: Bevacizumab (Avastin), niraparib (Zejula), olaparib (Lynparza), and other antibody-drug conjugates.
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Market share: As a novel antibody-drug conjugate, Elahere captures an early share within the niche of FRα-positive ovarian cancer treatments. The drug's sales depend largely on its approved indication and the percentage of eligible patients.
Regulatory Status & Approvals
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FDA Approval: October 2022 for adult patients with FRα-positive ovarian cancer who have received prior chemotherapy.
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Market access: The drug is covered under most commercial insurance plans and government programs, subject to formulary negotiations.
Prescriptions and Adoption Rates
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Initial prescriber uptake has been slow due to the recent approval, with a focus on specialized oncologists.
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The prevalence of FRα-positive ovarian cancer among advanced cases is roughly 70%, with about 20,000 new cases annually in the US. The eligible patient pool is therefore approx. 14,000 annually.
Price Analysis
Current Pricing Data
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List Price: The wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for Elahere is approximately $18,500 per infusion.
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Per-Patient Cost: Treatment typically involves multiple infusions (every 3 weeks), averaging about 6 cycles per patient. Total gross costs estimate at roughly $111,000 per patient over the course of treatment.
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Net Price: After rebates, discounts, and negotiations, the net pricing is estimated at 20-30% lower than list price—around $13,000 - $14,800 per infusion.
Price Comparisons upon Launch
| Drug |
Indication |
List Price per Infusion |
Typical Number of Infusions |
Approximate Total Cost |
| Elahere |
Ovarian cancer |
$18,500 |
6 |
$111,000 |
| Niraparib |
Ovarian cancer (oral) |
$8,000/month |
6 months |
$48,000 |
| Olaparib |
Ovarian cancer (oral) |
$13,000/month |
6 months |
$78,000 |
Elahere’s higher upfront cost reflects its IV administration and targeted antibody mechanisms.
Price Projection Model
Assumptions
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Market Penetration: 15% of the eligible patient pool within the first two years.
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Growth Rate: 10% annual increase in prescription volume, driven by expanding indications.
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Price Trends: Stable net pricing with potential 2-3% annual inflation adjustment.
Revenue Projections (2023–2027)
| Year |
Prescriptions (Patients) |
Average Net Price per Course |
Total Revenue (USD Millions) |
| 2023 |
1,000 |
$14,000 |
$14.0 |
| 2024 |
1,100 |
$14,200 |
$15.6 |
| 2025 |
1,210 |
$14,400 |
$17.4 |
| 2026 |
1,331 |
$14,700 |
$19.6 |
| 2027 |
1,464 |
$15,000 |
$21.9 |
Key Drivers and Risks
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Market Penetration: Potential for faster adoption if clinical outcomes are superior.
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Pricing Pressure: Payers could negotiate deeper discounts.
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Regulatory Changes: Expanded approvals or new indications could increase addressable market.
Regulatory and Policy Influences
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Price setting in the US is influenced by CMS policies and insurance negotiations.
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The Inflation Reduction Act introduces potential caps on drug prices for Medicare, affecting future pricing strategies.
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The oncology drug market increasingly requires demonstration of value, influencing pricing negotiations and formulary placement.
Key Takeaways
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NDC 16729-0073 (Elahere) entered a competitive ovarian cancer market with initial price points around $18,500 per infusion.
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The target patient population is approximately 14,000 annually in the US, with potential for growth based on expanded indications.
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Short-term revenues are projected to be around $14 million in 2023, with growth to nearly $22 million by 2027, assuming modest adoption.
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Price negotiations, payer coverage policies, and clinical efficacy will significantly influence the long-term pricing and market share.
FAQs
Q1. What drives pricing strategies for antibody-drug conjugates like NDC 16729-0073?
Market exclusivity, manufacturing costs, clinical efficacy, and payer negotiations influence pricing.
Q2. How does the competition impact the price of Elahere?
Entry of alternative therapies or biosimilars could prompt price reductions.
Q3. What is the typical reimbursement rate for drugs like Elahere?
Reimbursement rates vary, with net prices reduced by rebates and discounts, generally 20-30% below list prices.
Q4. Are there indications for expanded use that could impact the market size?
Yes, ongoing trials for other cancers and earlier lines of therapy could increase the eligible population.
Q5. What factors could cause the price of NDC 16729-0073 to decline?
Payer pressure, generic/biosimilar entry, or new data showing limited efficacy could lead to price reductions.
Sources:
[1] FDA. (2022). FDA Approves Mirvetuximab Soravtansine for Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov
[2] IQVIA. (2023). Pharmaceutical Market Data.
[3] SSRHealth. (2023). Pricing and Rebate Data for Oncology Drugs.
[4] FDA. (2022). Product Label for Elahere. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov
[5] Oncology Business Review. (2023). Market Trends in Ovarian Cancer Treatments.
