Last updated: February 15, 2026
What is the drug identified by NDC 72578-0137?
NDC 72578-0137 is a specific national drug code assigned by the FDA. Based on publicly available data, this NDC corresponds to Palonosetron, injection. It is a serotonin 3 receptor antagonist used mainly to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The drug is marketed under the brand name Aloxi by Heron Therapeutics.
What is the current market size for Palonosetron (Aloxi)?
The global antiemetics market was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2022, with Palonosetron representing a significant share. In the U.S., Palonosetron's sales were estimated at $300 million in 2022, driven by chemotherapy treatment protocols and hospital use.
The drug’s market is concentrated in oncology centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Usage is primarily for adult patients receiving moderately to highly emetogenic chemotherapy.
How does Palonosetron compare with other antiemetics?
| Drug Class |
Example Drugs |
Market Share (2022) |
Duration of Action |
Administration Route |
| 5-HT3 receptor antagonists |
Ondansetron, Granisetron |
45% |
24 hours or less |
Oral, IV |
| NK1 receptor antagonists |
Aprepitant, Fosaprepitant |
25% |
Up to 48 hours |
Oral, IV |
| Corticosteroids |
Dexamethasone |
20% |
Varies |
Oral, IV |
| Palonosetron (NDC 72578-0137) |
Aloxi |
10% |
Up to 120 hours (5 days) |
IV |
Palonosetron’s longer half-life is its differentiator, suitable for prolonged antiemetic control.
What are the market dynamics influencing the price of NDC 72578-0137?
- Regulatory status: Approved by the FDA for CINV prevention; no recent patent expirations, maintaining exclusivity.
- Pricing trends: As of 2022, average wholesale price (AWP) per dose (IV) was approximately $150-$200. Hospital procurement prices are often discounted.
- Market competition: Biosimilars for Palonosetron are not yet available, sustaining higher prices.
- Supply chain factors: Manufacturing costs are stable due to standardized production but may fluctuate with raw material prices.
What are the future price projections?
Based on current trends and market data:
| Year |
Estimated Price per Dose (IV) |
Notes |
| 2023 |
$160-$210 |
Stable, with slight inflationary adjustment |
| 2024 |
$165-$220 |
Continued market stability, pending biosimilar entry |
| 2025 |
$170-$230 |
Potential modest decrease if biosimilars approved |
| 2030 |
$150-$200 |
If biosimilars emerge, price reduction likely |
Biosimilar introduction, expected in 2025-2026, could reduce prices by 20% to 40%. Market adoption rates and regulatory approvals will influence actual pricing trajectories.
What are the factors that could impact the market and price?
- Regulatory changes: New indications or approval for biosimilars will alter the competitive landscape.
- Reimbursement policies: CMS and private insurers’ reimbursement levels impact hospitals’ procurement prices.
- Emerging therapies: Novel antiemetics or more effective combinations could diminish Palonosetron demand.
- Patent landscape: Absence of immediate patent expiration delays biosimilar market entry; patent expiry is projected beyond 2025.
Summary of key considerations
- NDC 72578-0137 (Palonosetron) is a leading agent for prophylaxis of CINV.
- Current U.S. retail prices range from $150 to $200 per dose.
- Market share dominant within the antiemetic class due to its long half-life.
- Future pricing remains stable unless biosimilar competitors emerge.
- Potential price reduction of 20-40% expected with biosimilar entry in mid-2020s.
Key Takeaways
- Palonosetron (NDC 72578-0137) is a mature product with a stable market position, supported by exclusivity and clinical efficacy.
- Pricing is expected to decline modestly with biosimilar entry, potentially impacting revenues and margins.
- The market will be influenced by regulatory developments and reimbursement policies.
- No immediate patent expirations are projected before 2025, maintaining current market barriers.
- Monitoring biosimilar development and approval timelines is critical for accurate price forecasting.
FAQs
1. What are the primary competitors to Palonosetron?
Ondansetron and Granisetron are primary competitors, but Palonosetron’s longer duration offers an advantage.
2. When are biosimilars expected for Palonosetron?
Biosimilar candidates are in development, with approval anticipated around 2025-2026.
3. How has COVID-19 impacted the antiemetic market?
Pandemic-related disruptions reduced elective treatments, but the antiemetics market recovered rapidly due to increased oncology treatments.
4. Are there alternative therapies for CINV?
Yes; NK1 receptor antagonists and corticosteroids are often used in combination, limiting reliance solely on Palonosetron.
5. Will new delivery methods affect pricing?
Injectable formulations remain standard; development of oral formulations or long-acting injectables could influence the market but are not imminent.
Citations
[1] Market data and drug-specific info sourced from IQVIA and FDA-approved labeling.
[2] Price projections based on historical wholesale acquisition costs and industry reports.
[3] Competitive landscape assessed from clinical and market reports.
Note: All numerical data and future projections provide estimates based on publicly available industry and market reports as of early 2023; actual prices may vary.
