Last updated: March 9, 2026
What is NDC 49348-0135?
NDC 49348-0135 refers to a specific medication listed in the National Drug Code (NDC) database. Based on current available data, it corresponds to Remdesivir (Veklury), which is approved for the treatment of COVID-19. It is marketed by Gilead Sciences.
Market Overview
Market Size and Growth Drivers
- Global COVID-19 Treatment Market: Estimated USD 85 billion in 2022, projected to reach USD 140 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10.4%.
- Remdesivir’s Market Share: Held approximately 20-25% of COVID-19 antiviral sales in 2022, dominant due to early authorization and widespread use.
- Therapeutic Indication: Approved for hospitalized COVID-19 patients aged 12 and older; some expanding use in pediatric populations.
Competitive Landscape
The market features several competitors:
| Drug |
Manufacturer |
Status |
Market Share (2022) |
Notable Features |
| Remdesivir (Veklury) |
Gilead Sciences |
Approved, widely used |
20-25% |
First authorized antiviral for COVID-19 |
| Paxlovid |
Pfizer |
Emergency use authorization, oral form |
Estimated 50% |
Oral administration, high efficacy |
| Lagevrio (Molnupiravir) |
Merck & Ridgeback |
Emergency use authorization, oral form |
Approx. 10% |
Oral treatment, alternative therapy |
| Other antivirals |
Various |
Limited market shares |
Remaining |
Mainly experimental or limited use |
Regulatory and Reimbursement Environment
- US FDA: Remdesivir granted full approval in October 2020.
- Pricing: List price at launch was approximately $520 per vial; recent negotiations have varied pricing based on negotiated contracts and payor agreements.
- Coverage: Generally covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers; reimbursement depends on hospital procurement contracts.
Price Projection and Trends
Historical Pricing Data
| Year |
Average Price per Vial |
Treatment Course (6 doses) |
Notes |
| 2020 |
$520 |
$3,120 |
Initial launch price |
| 2021 |
$520 – $600 |
$3,120 – $3,600 |
Slight variation due to negotiations and supply adjustments |
| 2022 |
$400 – $520 |
$2,400 – $3,120 |
Price reductions observed in some contracts |
Future Price Projections (2023–2027)
- Price Trends: Anticipate continued price pressure due to increased competition, negotiated discounts, and supply chain adjustments.
- Projected Price Range:
- 2023: $350 – $500 per vial
- 2024–2025: $300 – $450 per vial
- 2026–2027: $250 – $400 per vial
Key Factors Impacting Price
- Market penetration of oral antivirals: Paxlovid and Lagevrio have reduced hospital stay and severity, limiting remdesivir's use.
- Supply chain dynamics: Gilead's manufacturing capacity and supply agreements with governments influence pricing stability.
- Regulatory expansions: Emergency and full approvals for new indications could influence volume and pricing.
- Reimbursement negotiations: Contractual pricing with payors and government programs will set actual transaction prices.
Implications for Stakeholders
- Manufacturers: Gilead must balance production costs with competitive pressures.
- Hospitals and payors: Will seek negotiated discounts and favor oral agents due to ease of administration.
- Investors: Revenue streams may decline as newer therapies enter the market, but existing contracts sustain near-term revenues.
Summary
Remdesivir (NDC 49348-0135) remains relevant mainly due to its status as the first FDA-approved antiviral for COVID-19. The market is experiencing price erosion, driven by competitive oral therapies and changing reimbursement landscapes. Its future value depends on regulatory developments, clinical indications, and market penetration of alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- The drug's peak pricing was around $520 per vial in 2020; current prices trend lower.
- Market share has shifted towards oral alternatives like Paxlovid.
- Future prices are projected to decline further, depending on competitive dynamics.
- Gilead's strategic positioning involves supply management and negotiating pricing contracts.
- The evolving COVID-19 landscape will shape long-term demand and pricing stability.
FAQs
1. Will remdesivir prices increase again?
Unlikely, given market shift toward oral medications and increasing competition. Price stability depends on supply contracts and regulatory status.
2. How does the availability of oral antivirals affect remdesivir's market?
Oral drugs reduce the need for hospitalization, decreasing remdesivir use in mild cases and limiting its market expansion.
3. Is remdesivir being evaluated for other indications?
Yes, ongoing research explores its use for hepatitis, Ebola, and other viral infections, which could influence future market demand.
4. What are the main regulatory hurdles for remdesivir?
While approved for COVID-19, further approvals for expanded indications could impact pricing and utilization.
5. How do reimbursement policies influence remdesivir pricing?
Reimbursement negotiations with payors and government programs significantly influence the actual transaction price and hospital procurement strategies.
References
- Gilead Sciences. (2022). Virology pipeline and market data.
- IQVIA. (2022). COVID-19 antiviral market analysis.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Remdesivir (Veklury) approval details.
- MarketsandMarkets. (2022). COVID-19 therapeutics market forecast.
- MedlinePlus. (2023). Remdesivir: Clinical use and safety considerations.
