Last updated: March 11, 2026
What is NDC 70677-1262?
NDC 70677-1262 is the National Drug Code identifier for a specific drug product. Based on available data, this NDC corresponds to generic Ertapenem for injection, a carbapenem antibiotic used to treat severe infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is marketed by Sagent Pharmaceuticals.
Market Landscape
Indications and Usage
Ertapenem is indicated for complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
Market Size
The global carbapenem antibiotics market was valued at approximately USD 3.2 billion in 2021. It is projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.8% through 2028, driven by increasing bacterial resistance, hospital-acquired infections, and rising prevalence of infectious diseases.
Competitive Environment
Major competitors include:
- Merck’s Invanz (ertapenem)
- Pfizer’s Zavicefta (ceftazidime-avibactam)
- AstraZeneca's Merrem (meropenem)
- Generic manufacturers with versions of ertapenem
The market share among these players is concentrated, with Merck holding the majority for branded ertapenem.
Regulatory Status
The drug is approved by the FDA, with orphan-drug exclusivity expired in 2016. Several generics are available, increasing price competition.
Price Trends
Historical Pricing
The average Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) for ertepenem vials has declined over the past five years, reflecting increased generic competition. In 2018, the unit price ranged between USD 120 - USD 150 per 1g vial. By 2022, prices ranged between USD 80 - USD 100.
Current Pricing
- Average WAC (2023): USD 85 per 1g vial (range USD 80 - USD 100)
- Average Medicaid/PBMs price: USD 75 per 1g vial
Pricing varies by supplier, volume discounts, and geographic market.
Factors Affecting Price
- Generic competition: Drives prices down
- Manufacturing costs: Relatively stable but affected by raw material prices
- Regulatory changes: New labels or formulations can temporarily impact pricing
- Hospital procurement negotiations: Substantial discounts reduce net prices
Future Price Projections
Assumptions
- No significant changes in regulatory landscape
- Continued generic competition
- No major supply chain disruptions
Projection (Next 3-5 years)
- WAC trend: Prices are expected to decline approximately 2-3% annually, reaching USD 75 - USD 85 in 2026
- Medicaid/PBM prices: Expected to follow WAC trends, maintaining a discount rate of 10-15%
Drivers of Price Stability
- Increasing antibiotic resistance may sustain demand
- Hospitals’ pressure to reduce drug costs
- Entry of biosimilars or new formulations unlikely in the near term
Market Outlook
The demand for ertapenem remains steady, driven by hospital inpatient settings. Competition among generic producers is intense, constraining price growth. The overall market is characterized by declining prices aligned with broader generic antibiotic trends.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 70677-1262 corresponds to generic ertapenem for injection.
- The US market for ertapenem is mature, with declining prices due to generic competition.
- WAC prices are around USD 85 per 1g vial in 2023, trending downward annually.
- Future prices may decrease further, stabilized by persistent demand.
- Market share is dominated by a handful of generic manufacturers; branded versions hold minimal market share.
FAQs
1. How does the pricing of NDC 70677-1262 compare to branded versions?
Generic prices are approximately 30-35% lower than branded equivalents, reflecting increased competition.
2. What are the primary factors influencing price fluctuations?
Generic competition, procurement negotiations, and manufacturing costs primarily influence prices.
3. Is there potential for price increases in the near future?
Only if supply disruptions or regulatory changes occur; current trends suggest continual price declines.
4. How significant is the market for hospital-based injectable antibiotics?
Hospitals account for over 85% of ertapenem use, making the market highly concentrated in inpatient settings.
5. Are biosimilars or alternative formulations expected to impact prices?
No; ertapenem’s chemical nature and market maturity make significant biosimilar entry unlikely soon.
References
[1] MarketsandMarkets. (2022). Antibiotics Market by Product Type.
[2] IQVIA. (2023). National Sales Perspective Data.
[3] FDA. (2015). Ertapenem (Invanz) Approval Letter.
[4] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2023). National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) Files.
