Last updated: March 12, 2026
What Is NDC 50268-0496?
The National Drug Code (NDC) 50268-0496 refers to a specific pharmaceutical product. Based on available data, this code corresponds to Glucose Injection, USP, 50 mL in a single-dose container.
Market Overview
Indications and Utilization
Glucose injection is primarily used in hospitals for IV glucose delivery, fluid therapy, and nutritional support. The drug's primary market exists in inpatient settings, especially intensive care units, emergency departments, and surgical wards.
Market Size and Demand
The U.S. market for IV glucose products is estimated at approximately $200 million in annual sales (IQVIA, 2022). This figure reflects utilization volume, pricing, and hospital procurement patterns.
Competitive Landscape
Major competitors include:
- Baxter International (brand: Baxter Dextrose)
- B. Braun Medical (brand: B. Braun Dextrose)
- Hospira (now part of Pfizer, brand: Hospira Dextrose)
Generic formulations dominate due to low barriers to entry. Market penetration remains high with minimal differentiation.
Regulatory Status
The product complies with USP standards; it has no recent label updates or class wide safety concerns. The safety profile is well established, with minimal adverse events reported in post-marketing surveillance.
Price Projections
Current Pricing
As of Q1 2023, wholesale acquisition costs (WAC) per 50 mL unit average $2.25 to $2.50. Hospital procurement discounts and healthcare provider negotiations may reduce effective transaction prices to approximately $1.75 to $2.00 per unit.
Historical Price Trends
The price has increased marginally, about 2% annually over the past five years, correlating with inflation and rising raw material costs.
Future Price Trends
Factors influencing future prices include:
- Supply chain stability: Potential disruptions could transiently increase prices.
- Competitive pressure: Entry of generic manufacturers may exert downward pressure.
- Regulatory changes: Price regulation initiatives could cap costs.
- Inflation: Rising costs of raw materials and manufacturing could sustain or increase prices.
Price Projection Model
| Year |
Projected Average Price per 50 mL ($) |
Assumptions |
| 2023 |
1.75 - 2.00 |
Stable demand, no significant supply chain issues |
| 2024 |
1.80 - 2.10 |
Slight inflation impact, increased competition |
| 2025 |
1.85 - 2.20 |
Continued generic penetration, inflation persists |
Scenarios
- Optimistic: Prices decrease by 5% if generic market share expands faster than anticipated.
- Pessimistic: Prices increase by 3% if supply disruptions occur or raw material costs rise.
Pricing Based on Market Dynamics
Price points will ultimately depend on procurement strategies by hospitals and government agencies. Large-volume contracts can negotiate prices close to $1.75 per 50 mL, whereas smaller facilities may pay near $2.50.
Regulatory and Policy Impacts
The ongoing potential for price controls or Medicare/Medicaid negotiations could compress margins further. The Biden administration has proposed policies aimed at reducing drug costs, which could influence injectable product prices.
Key Takeaways
- The NDC 50268-0496 product is a generic glucose injection primarily used in hospitals.
- The U.S. market is approximately $200 million annually, with high competition.
- Wholesale prices average around $2.25 to $2.50, with hospital prices often lower.
- Prices are expected to trend modestly upward or downward within a 3-5% range over the next two years.
- Factors influencing future prices include competition, supply chain risks, regulatory policies, and inflation.
FAQs
1. How does market competition affect price projections?
Increased competition from generics tends to reduce prices, especially through hospital procurement negotiations.
2. What are the main cost drivers for glucose injection?
Raw material costs, manufacturing expenses, and distribution logistics primarily influence prices.
3. Can regulatory changes impact pricing?
Yes, price caps or negotiated drug prices can lower retail and hospital procurement costs.
4. Is there potential for brand-name or patented versions?
No; glucose injection is a basic, off-patent formulation, which limits higher-end pricing.
5. How do supply chain disruptions influence price trends?
Disruptions can temporarily increase costs, leading to price spikes until supply stabilizes.
References
[1] IQVIA. (2022). U.S. Pharmaceutical Market Reports.
[2] FDA. (2023). Current Drug Label and Approvals Database.
[3] Medicare.gov. (2023). Price Negotiation Policies for Hospital Drugs.
