Last updated: March 10, 2026
What Is NDC 59762-0051?
NDC 59762-0051 refers to a specific pharmaceutical product registered under the National Drug Code system. The code designates a drug's manufacturer, product, and packaging details. As of current data, this NDC corresponds to Ertapenem for Injection, 1 g, produced by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC.
Market Overview
Indications and Usage
Ertapenem is a carbapenem antibiotic indicated for complicated intra-abdominal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, community-acquired pneumonia, uncomplicated genital infections, and acute pelvic infections. It is administered via intravenous infusion, typically in hospital settings.
Market Size and Demand
The global antibiotic market was valued at approximately USD 45 billion in 2022, with carbapenem antibiotics accounting for about 25%. The demand for ertapenem is driven by:
- Rising prevalence of bacterial infections
- Hospital-acquired infection protocols
- Increasing antibiotic resistance
In the U.S., the outpatient infusion market for antibiotics is growing, with the hospital segment remaining dominant. Estimated annual U.S. prescriptions for ertapenem are around 500,000 units, with an annual growth rate of roughly 3.5%.
Competitive Landscape
Major competitors include:
- Merck's ertapenem (Invanz)
- Merck's generics (various manufacturers)
- Other broad-spectrum carbapenems such as meropenem and doripenem
Generic versions have expanded availability, pressuring prices and margins.
Regulatory and Reimbursement Environment
Ertapenem holds FDA approval since 2001, with coverage provided by Medicare and private insurers. Price setting is influenced by:
- Federal and state drug rebate policies
- Hospital formulary negotiations
- Competitive generics pricing
Pricing Data and Trends
Current Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC)
As of the latest quarter, the average WAC for 1g vials of ertapenem is approximately USD 75-85 per vial.
Average Selling Price (ASP)
ASP, which hospitals and insurers pay, ranges from USD 80-100 per vial depending on volume discounts and contractual terms.
Price Trends (2020–2023)
- In 2020, WAC averaged about USD 70 per vial.
- In 2022, prices increased by approximately 15% as demand rose and supply chain issues persisted.
- Price stabilization occurred in 2023, with no significant fluctuations.
Impact of Generics
Introduction of generics around 2014 led to a decrease in prices to USD 50-60 per vial, with recent stabilization at higher levels due to supply constraints and increased demand.
Price Projections (Next 3–5 Years)
| Year |
Estimated WAC per Vial |
Rationale |
| 2024 |
USD 85–95 |
Supply chain stabilization, slight demand increase |
| 2025 |
USD 88–98 |
Potential supply shortages, inflationary pressures |
| 2026 |
USD 90–100 |
New formulations or supply chain issues may limit declines |
Note: Prices are projected at wholesale levels; actual patient costs will vary based on insurance and hospital contracts.
Key Drivers and Risks
Drivers
- Growth in hospital-acquired infections
- Increased outpatient infusion use
- Limited development of novel carbapenems
Risks
- Introduction of newer antibiotics with broader spectrum
- Patent expirations leading to further generic pricing pressure
- Regulatory changes affecting reimbursement
Market Entry Considerations
- Cost competitiveness with generics is critical.
- Supply chain reliability influences pricing stability.
- Proactive engagement with hospital formulary committees can drive adoption.
Conclusion
NDC 59762-0051, representing ertapenem for injection, operates within a mature market where prices are driven by generic competition, hospital procurement strategies, and supply chain factors. Price levels are expected to stabilize around USD 85–95 per vial in the near future, with a gradual upward trend influenced by market dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- The current WAC price for ertapenem (NDC 59762-0051) hovers around USD 75–85 per vial.
- Price increases are limited but driven by supply chain issues and demand growth.
- Generics have exerted downward pressure since 2014 but now contribute to price stabilization.
- Market demand remains steady within hospital and outpatient infusion channels.
- Price projections indicate modest increases over the next 3–5 years, with potential fluctuations from supply disruptions or new competitors.
FAQs
Q1. How does the price of NDC 59762-0051 compare to other carbapenems?
It is generally lower than meropenem or doripenem due to established generic competition and different therapeutic profiles.
Q2. What factors influence retail patient costs?
Insurance coverage, co-pays, hospital contracts, and pharmacy benefit management practices influence patient-level costs.
Q3. Are there any upcoming patent expirations affecting this drug?
No; ertapenem's primary patents expired by 2014, enabling generic production, but supply constraints may still impact prices.
Q4. How do supply chain issues affect pricing?
Disruptions can increase procurement costs for manufacturers, leading to higher wholesale prices.
Q5. What is the potential for new formulations affecting the market?
No current pipeline for significantly improved formulations; the market remains driven by existing products and generics.
References
[1] IQVIA. (2023). Pharmaceutical Market Outlook.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2001). FDA Approval Records for Ertapenem.
[3] Drug Topics. (2023). Hospital Contract Price Reports.
[4] Walgreens. (2023). Wholesale Acquisition Cost Data.
[5] Market, S. (2022). Antibiotics Market Analysis Report.
