Last updated: February 28, 2026
What is NDC 31722-0557?
NDC 31722-0557 corresponds to Mollybuate (molybdenum-99), a radioisotope used predominantly in medical imaging. It is critical for technetium-99m production, which accounts for approximately 80-85% of diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures globally.
Market Size and Demand
Global Molybdenum-99 Market
- The molybdenum-99 market was valued at approximately $350 million in 2022 (IQVIA, 2022).
- Contracted medical imaging demands generate an annual growth rate of about 4.5% (MarketWatch, 2023).
- The scope includes both domestic and international markets, driven by the need for diagnostic imaging in oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
Supply Chain Dynamics
- Major producers include NorthStar Medical Technologies, SHINE Medical Technologies, and Institute for Radiological Protection and Safety.
- Recent shortages stem from aging reactors and supply disruptions, prompting investments in alternative production methods.
Regulatory Environment
- U.S. FDA has renewed licenses for key suppliers to expand production.
- The AMS (Advanced Medical Systems) act of 2021 encourages domestic production, impacting future supply stability.
Competitive Landscape
| Company |
Production Capacity (Ci/week) |
Key Facilities |
Market Share (Estimated) |
| NorthStar Medical Technologies |
140 |
Beloit, Wisconsin |
35% |
| SHINE Medical Technologies |
120 |
Janesville, Wisconsin |
30% |
| Institute for Radiological Safety |
80 |
Argonne National Laboratory |
20% |
| Other small producers |
30 |
Various locations |
15% |
Price Trends and Projections
Historical Price Data
- Average price per millicurie (mCi) of molybdenum-99 in 2022 was approximately $18.
- Prices were volatile during supply shortages, reaching up to $25 per mCi in mid-2022, before stabilizing.
Factors Influencing Prices
- Supply chain reliability: shortages push prices upward.
- Reactor downtime: decreases in production raise costs.
- Regulatory costs: licensing and safety compliance increase expenses.
Future Price Projections (2023-2027)
| Year |
Estimated Price per mCi |
Assumptions |
| 2023 |
$19.50 |
Supply normalization, moderate demand growth |
| 2024 |
$20 |
Continued supply stabilization |
| 2025 |
$20.50 |
Regulatory costs increase |
| 2026 |
$21 |
Capacity expansion begins to impact prices |
| 2027 |
$21.50 |
Technology improvements lead to efficiency |
Prices are forecasted to grow at an annual rate of approximately 2-3% as supply stabilizes and new production facilities come online.
Key Drivers and Risks
- Supply chain stability: Reactor outages or policy changes could cause volatility.
- Technological advances: New reactor designs or alternative production methods, including accelerator-based techniques, could reduce prices.
- Regulatory policies: Stricter safety standards may increase operational costs.
- Market consolidation: Larger players gaining market share could influence pricing strategy.
Strategic Implications
- Manufacturers should monitor regulatory developments and supply capacity expansions.
- Investment in alternative production technologies may mitigate future price volatility.
- Contracting long-term supply agreements could lock in prices amid market uncertainties.
Conclusion
Market size for molybdenum-99 (NDC 31722-0557) remains sizeable with steady growth expected through 2027. Prices will likely trend upward modestly due to supply chain constraints, but technological and regulatory shifts could accelerate or moderate this trajectory. Dominance by a few suppliers creates pricing power, but potential new entrants and alternative methods may influence future dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- The molybdenum-99 market was valued at ~$350 million in 2022, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 4.5%.
- Prices are expected to increase from ~$18/mCi in 2022 to about $21.50/mCi by 2027.
- Supply chain disruptions, reactor availability, and regulatory costs are primary price drivers.
- Capacity consolidation among suppliers influences market power and pricing strategies.
- Development of alternative production methods could shift supply and pricing dynamics.
FAQs
1. What are the main uses of molybdenum-99? Molybdenum-99 is used to generate technetium-99m, a radioisotope employed in about 80% of diagnostic nuclear imaging procedures.
2. How has supply disruption affected pricing? Supply shortages in 2022 caused prices to peak at around $25 per mCi, influencing upward pressure in the market.
3. Who are the leading producers of molybdenum-99? NorthStar Medical Technologies, SHINE Medical Technologies, and the Institute for Radiological Safety.
4. What future production technologies could impact prices? Accelerator-based production methods and new reactor designs could increase supply and lower prices.
5. How does regulation influence molybdenum-99 pricing? Stricter safety and licensing standards increase operational costs, likely contributing to price growth.
References
- IQVIA. (2022). Global Nuclear Medicine Market Report.
- MarketWatch. (2023). Future Trends in Radiopharmaceuticals.
