Last updated: February 27, 2026
What is the drug associated with NDC 62175-0486?
NDC 62175-0486 corresponds to Levemir (insulin detemir). It is a long-acting insulin used to manage blood glucose levels in diabetes mellitus patients.
Market Overview
Current Market Size
- The global insulin market was valued at approximately $22 billion in 2022 [1].
- The U.S. insulin market approximates $14 billion, with basal insulin accounting for over 60% of total insulin sales [2].
- Levemir holds a significant share within long-acting insulin prescriptions, estimated at 20-25% as of 2023 [3].
Key Competitors
- Lantus (insulin glargine) by Sanofi.
- Tresiba (insulin degludec) by Novo Nordisk.
- Basaglar (biosimilar glargine) by Lilly/Biocon.
Market Dynamics
- Growing prevalence of diabetes, especially type 2, drives demand.
- Increased adoption of basal insulins for simplifying treatment regimens.
- Price pressures due to biosimilar alternatives and market entry of generics.
Price Analysis
Historical Pricing Trends
- Average wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for a 10 mL vial of Levemir has been approximately $275–$295 since 2020 [4].
- Monthly treatment costs with Levemir typically range from $300–$400 per patient, depending on dosage.
Current Pricing Landscape
| Product |
WAC per 10 mL vial |
Monthly cost per patient |
Market Share (2023) |
| Levemir |
$285 |
$350 |
20% |
| Lantus |
$290 |
$360 |
40% |
| Tresiba |
$310 |
$370 |
30% |
| Biosimilar Glargine |
$250–$270 |
$300–$330 |
10% |
Prices are approximate and vary by pharmacy and insurance coverage.
Factors Influencing Prices
- Patent exclusivity expiration timelines.
- Entry of biosimilars or generics.
- Negotiations by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).
- Regulatory hurdles affecting biosimilar approval.
Price Projection (Next 5 Years)
| Year |
Expected Change |
Justification |
| 2024 |
0-2% increase |
Manufacturing cost stability; minor pricing adjustments due to inflation |
| 2025 |
1-3% increase |
Potential biosimilar entry may exert downward pressure; innovation cycle pause |
| 2026 |
0-2% increase |
Market saturation; further biosimilar development; policy shifts toward cost containment |
| 2027 |
Stable or slight decrease |
Biosimilar competition gains traction; prices may stabilize or decline slightly |
| 2028 |
Slight decline or stabilization |
Increased biosimilar penetration could reduce average prices; regulatory impacts |
Market Drivers and Risks
Drivers
- Rising diabetes prevalence: estimated 537 million worldwide in 2021 [5].
- Increased adoption of insulin therapy in emerging markets.
- Convenience of long-acting formulations improves adherence.
Risks
- Patent challenges leading to biosimilar competition.
- Price regulation policies in major markets.
- Development of alternative therapies, such as oral insulin or immunotherapies.
Implications for Stakeholders
- Pharmaceutical companies should monitor biosimilar approvals and patent statuses.
- Payers and providers need to consider cost containment strategies, including formulary management.
- Investors should evaluate company pipeline robustness and biosimilar entry plans.
Summary
Levemir (NDC 62175-0486) remains a significant component of the long-acting insulin market, valued above $4 billion in the U.S. alone. Its pricing has stabilized, with minor increases expected owing to manufacturing costs and market dynamics. Future price trends depend heavily on biosimilar competition, patent expirations, and regulatory policies.
Key Takeaways
- Levemir holds about one-fifth of the long-acting insulin market share in the U.S.
- Current wholesale prices hover around $285 per 10 mL vial with annual per-patient costs above $3,500.
- Market growth is driven by increasing diabetes prevalence, but price erosion is probable due to biosimilar competition.
- Price projections suggest minimal increases through 2024–2025, followed by stabilization or slight decline.
- Market risks include patent expirations, biosimilar entrance, and policy interventions.
FAQs
Q1: When is the patent for Levemir set to expire?
A1: Patent expiry for Levemir is expected around 2025–2026, opening opportunities for biosimilar competition.
Q2: How do biosimilars impact insulin prices?
A2: Biosimilars generally lower market prices by 10–30%, depending on market penetration and regulatory acceptance.
Q3: Are there upcoming regulatory changes that affect insulin pricing?
A3: Yes. The Inflation Reduction Act and other policies aim to lower drug costs, potentially impacting insulin pricing.
Q4: How does insulin demand vary by region?
A4: The highest demand is in North America and Europe but growing rapidly in Asia and Africa due to increasing diabetes prevalence.
Q5: What are the main factors influencing insulin market growth over the next five years?
A5: Rising diabetes rates, new formulation approval, biosimilar entry, and healthcare policy changes.
References
[1] MarketWatch. Global insulin market size 2022.
[2] IMS Health. U.S. insulin market segment analysis 2023.
[3] Epocrates. Long-acting insulin prescription trends 2023.
[4] Red Book. Wholesale prices for Levemir 2020–2023.
[5] IDF Diabetes Atlas. Global diabetes prevalence 2021.
