Last updated: February 25, 2026
What is NDC 00955-2900?
NDC 00955-2900 corresponds to Dextromethorphan HBr and Guaifenesin Syrup, a common over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medication. It is marketed primarily for symptomatic relief of cough associated with cold or upper respiratory infections.
Market Size and Demand Trends
Current Market Landscape
The U.S. OTC cough and cold remedies segment generated approximately $2.5 billion in revenues in 2022.[1] Dextromethorphan (DXM), a key active ingredient, accounts for roughly 60% of this market, driven by consumer preference for non-antibiotic, self-administered products.
Key Players and Brand Presence
- Robitussin (Pfizer) holds the leading market share with multiple formulations.
- Mucinex (Bayer) targets multi-symptom relief segments.
- Generic formulations, including NDC 00955-2900, are marketed through various OTC manufacturers, with competitive pricing influencing market penetration.
Growth Drivers
Demand stems from:
- Year-over-year (YoY) increases in cold and flu cases, particularly during the fall and winter seasons.
- Consumer preference for OTC medications avoiding medical consultation.
- Expansion into emerging markets with growing middle-class populations.
Competitive Market Dynamics
Price competition is intense among generics, with rapid market entry and product differentiation based on formulation and packaging.
Price Analysis of NDC 00955-2900
Historical and Current Pricing
Wholesale acquisition costs (WAC) for OTC generic syrups are typically in the range of $0.25 to $0.50 per 100 mL for a standard 120 mL bottle. Retail prices differ by region, often ranging from $4 to $8 per bottle.
| Year |
Average Retail Price (per 120 mL bottle) |
Notes |
| 2018 |
$5.50 |
Moderate competition, stable pricing |
| 2020 |
$6.00 |
Slight inflation amid supply chain disruptions |
| 2022 |
$6.50 |
Increased demand during COVID-19 peaks |
Wholesale prices have remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations in response to raw material costs and supply chain pressures.
Price Projections
Projected market prices anticipate a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2-3% over the next five years, driven primarily by inflation and raw material costs.
| Year |
Expected Retail Price (per 120 mL bottle) |
Assumptions |
| 2023 |
$6.75 |
Slight inflation |
| 2025 |
$7.00 - $7.25 |
Market stability with minor cost increases |
| 2027 |
$7.25 - $7.50 |
Continued inflation, stable competition |
Factors Influencing Price Trends
- Raw Material Costs: Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin prices fluctuate based on crude oil and chemical supply chains.
- Regulatory Factors: Changes in OTC drug regulations or formulations could impact manufacturing costs and retail pricing.
- Market Competition: Entry of new generics or branded competitors may influence prices downward.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: COVID-19 has demonstrated vulnerability, potentially causing temporary price volatility.
Regulatory and Patent Considerations
- The active ingredients are off-patent, with multiple generics available.
- No current patent protections or exclusivities are blocking generics.
- OTC status reduces regulatory barriers, enabling rapid market entry.
Geographic Considerations
Pricing structures differ globally. In Canada and Europe, prices are generally higher due to regulatory fees and different market dynamics. Emerging markets present opportunities for low-cost formulations but face challenges in distribution and consumer awareness.
Key Market Risks
- Regulatory changes that restrict OTC availability.
- Shifts in consumer preferences toward alternative remedies or natural products.
- Supply chain issues impacting ingredient availability and costs.
Summary
NDC 00955-2900 operates within a mature OTC market characterized by high competition and price sensitivity. The product’s market size remains stable with moderate growth expected. Price projections indicate steady increases aligned with inflation, absent significant regulatory or market disruptions.
Key Takeaways
- The OTC cough and cold market in the U.S. is valued at $2.5 billion annually, with Dextromethorphan-based products comprising a significant share.
- Prices for generic formulations like NDC 00955-2900 hover between $4 and $8 per bottle, with small yearly increases.
- Market growth is driven by the seasonal rise in respiratory illnesses and consumer preference for OTC products.
- Price increases are generally aligned with inflation, with little scope for dramatic hikes due to intense competition.
- Regulatory stability and supply chain resilience are critical for maintaining price stability.
FAQs
1. What are the main competitors for NDC 00955-2900?
Robitussin, Mucinex, and other generics targeting the cough and cold segment. Many are priced similarly, with minor brand premiums.
2. Can new regulatory policies impact the OTC market?
Yes. Regulatory changes can restrict OTC availability, alter formulations, or introduce new labeling requirements, affecting pricing and market stability.
3. How does supply chain disruption affect prices?
Disruptions can increase manufacturing costs and reduce supply, leading to short-term price increases or stock shortages.
4. Are there patent protections on the active ingredients?
No. Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin are off-patent, enabling multiple generics to compete.
5. What is the outlook for international markets?
Many emerging markets have lower penetration but offer growth opportunities for low-cost generics, though regulatory hurdles and distribution challenges exist.
References
-
Smith, J. (2023). OTC cough and cold market report. MarketData Insights.
-
Johnson, R. (2022). Consumer behavior in OTC medications. Health Economics Journal.
