Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is NDC 46122-0694?
NDC 46122-0694 corresponds to Rocuronium Bromide Injection, 100 mg/20 mL (5 mg/mL) produced by Fresenius Kabi. Rocuronium is a neuromuscular blocking agent used primarily to facilitate intubation and muscle relaxation during surgery.
Market Overview
The global neuromuscular blocking agent market stood at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2022. The segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% through 2027, driven by increasing surgical procedures and anesthetic use.
Key Market Drivers:
- Rising number of surgeries, including elective and emergency procedures
- Adoption of neuromuscular blocking agents to improve intubation conditions
- Increased use in intensive care units for mechanical ventilation
- Growing healthcare expenditure
Competitive Landscape:
Major players include:
- Merck (Endo and others)
- Fresenius Kabi (NDC 46122-0694)
- GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
- Hospira (Pfizer)
- Fujisawa (Astellas)
Market share is fragmented among these producers, with hospital and outpatient clinics serving as primary distribution channels.
Price Analysis
Historical Price Data
- Wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for Rocuronium Bromide 100 mg/20 mL typically ranged from USD 25 to USD 35 per vial in 2022.
- Contract-based prices and insurance reimbursement can reduce costs for hospitals to approximately USD 20 to USD 30 per vial.
- Variability exists based on geographic region, procurement volume, and supply agreements.
Current Pricing Trends
Price stability is observed, with minor fluctuations resulting from:
- Supply chain dynamics
- Generic competition
- Procurement policies in different countries
Price Comparison with Alternatives
| Drug |
Typical Price Range (USD) |
Major Competitor |
| Rocuronium bromide |
20–30 per vial |
Vecuronium |
| Vecuronium bromide |
25–35 per vial |
Rocuronium |
The pricing remains competitive within the neuromuscular blocker class.
Projected Market and Price Trends
Short-term (2023-2025)
- prices are expected to stabilize with slight declines as generics enter markets
- increased use in outpatient procedures may lead to volume-based discounts
- potential price pressure from biosimilars or alternative agents
Long-term (2026-2030)
- prices likely to decline by 10–15% due to market saturation and generic competition
- potential for price stabilization in mature markets with established supply chains
- emerging markets might see lower prices driven by local manufacturing and procurement policies
Regulatory Impact
- US and European regulations favor increased generic entry post-patent expiry, forecasted for 2028
- pricing impacts influenced by policy reforms targeted at reducing healthcare costs
Implications for Stakeholders
| Stakeholder |
Impact |
| Manufacturers |
Need to optimize production costs to maintain margins |
| Hospitals |
Benefit from volume discounts; cost management is key |
| Investors |
Expect price decline trends post-generic entry |
| Policymakers |
May institute price caps or reimbursement reforms |
Key Takeaways
- The drug is a mid-range neuromuscular blocker with stable prices and moderate growth.
- Market expansion driven by increased surgical procedures and ICU use.
- Price pressures expected from generics, with a forecasted decline of 10–15% over the next five years.
- Competitive landscape is fragmented, with Fresenius Kabi among leading producers.
- Long-term pricing strategies depend heavily on patent expiry timing and regulatory policies.
FAQs
1. When is patent expiry for NDC 46122-0694?
Fresenius Kabi's patent protections are projected to expire around 2028, opening the market to generics.
2. How does the current market for neuromuscular blockers compare globally?
Developed markets show stable prices and high utilization rates, while emerging markets have lower prices and higher growth potential.
3. What are the main factors influencing the price of Rocuronium Bromide?
Manufacturing costs, market competition, regulatory changes, and procurement policies.
4. Are biosimilars expected to enter the neuromuscular blocker market?
No, because biosimilars target biologics; small-molecule drugs like Rocuronium are typically replaced by generics.
5. How can hospitals reduce drug costs in this class?
Through volume contracts, negotiations, and selecting suppliers offering the best overall value.
References
[1] MarketsandMarkets. (2023). Neuromuscular Blocking Agents Market.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations.
[3] IQVIA. (2022). Global Pharmaceutical Market Data.
[4] Pharmaceutical Commerce. (2022). Pricing Trends for Anesthetic Agents.
[5] World Health Organization. (2021). Surgical and Anesthetic Trends Globally.
