Understanding the National Drug Code (NDC)
The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique identifier assigned to each drug product, including the labeler, product, and package size. For the drug with the NDC 51672-4074, this code corresponds to Hydrocortisone Butyrate cream, ointment, or topical solution, manufactured by Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc.[4].
Drug Description and Uses
Hydrocortisone Butyrate is a topical corticosteroid used for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. It is available in various forms, including cream, ointment, and topical solution[4].
Current Market Trends
The pharmaceutical market is experiencing several trends that could impact the pricing and availability of drugs like Hydrocortisone Butyrate.
Drug Price Inflation
According to Vizient, Inc., the overall drug price inflation rate for pharmaceuticals in 2025 is projected to be 3.81%. This inflation is driven by factors such as expanding indications for previously approved medications and the introduction of high-cost cell and gene therapies[2].
Market Growth in Drug Discovery Technologies
The global market for drug discovery technologies is expected to grow significantly, from $111.9 billion in 2024 to $197 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12%. This growth could influence the development and pricing of various pharmaceutical products, including topical corticosteroids[3].
Price Analysis for Hydrocortisone Butyrate
While the specific price data for NDC 51672-4074 is not provided in the sources, we can look at general trends and pricing for similar products.
Pricing Variability
Drug prices can vary significantly based on the vendor, package size, and other factors. For example, prices for Dapsone 5% Gel, another topical medication, have shown variability over time, ranging from $1.37 to $1.87 per gram depending on the package size and date[1].
Extraordinary Price Increases
Historically, brand-name drug products, including those in the therapeutic class of anti-inflammatory agents, have experienced extraordinary price increases. However, most of these increases have been for products costing less than $25 per unit before the increase[5].
Price Projections for Hydrocortisone Butyrate
Given the current market trends:
Inflation Impact
With an expected drug price inflation rate of 3.81% in 2025, it is likely that the price of Hydrocortisone Butyrate will increase accordingly. This inflation rate suggests that the cost per unit of the drug could rise by approximately 3.81% in the coming year[2].
Market Demand and Supply
The demand for topical corticosteroids like Hydrocortisone Butyrate remains steady due to their effectiveness in treating various skin conditions. However, any disruptions in supply or changes in regulatory scenarios could impact pricing[3].
Regulatory and Competitive Environment
The regulatory environment plays a crucial role in drug pricing. For generic drugs like Hydrocortisone Butyrate, which are approved through Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs), competition from multiple manufacturers can help stabilize or reduce prices[4].
Conclusion on Price Projections
Based on the projected drug price inflation and the stable demand for topical corticosteroids, it is reasonable to expect a moderate increase in the price of Hydrocortisone Butyrate. Here is a rough estimate:
- Current Price Range: While specific current prices for NDC 51672-4074 are not available, if we assume a similar pricing structure to other topical medications, the price could be in the range of $10 to $20 per unit.
- Projected Price Increase: With a 3.81% inflation rate, the price could increase by approximately $0.38 to $0.76 per unit.
Key Takeaways
- Drug Price Inflation: The overall drug price inflation rate for 2025 is projected to be 3.81%, which will likely affect the price of Hydrocortisone Butyrate.
- Market Growth: The global market for drug discovery technologies is growing, but this may not directly impact the pricing of established generic drugs like Hydrocortisone Butyrate.
- Regulatory Environment: Competition from multiple manufacturers and regulatory stability are key factors in maintaining or reducing prices for generic drugs.
- Price Projections: A moderate increase in the price of Hydrocortisone Butyrate is expected due to inflation.
FAQs
Q: What is the National Drug Code (NDC) and how is it used?
A: The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique identifier assigned to each drug product, including the labeler, product, and package size. It is used to track and manage drug products in the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Q: What are the common uses of Hydrocortisone Butyrate?
A: Hydrocortisone Butyrate is used for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
Q: How does drug price inflation affect the cost of Hydrocortisone Butyrate?
A: With a projected drug price inflation rate of 3.81% in 2025, the cost of Hydrocortisone Butyrate is likely to increase by approximately 3.81%.
Q: What factors influence the pricing of generic drugs like Hydrocortisone Butyrate?
A: Factors such as competition from multiple manufacturers, regulatory stability, and overall market demand influence the pricing of generic drugs.
Q: How does the growth in drug discovery technologies impact the pricing of established drugs?
A: The growth in drug discovery technologies may not directly impact the pricing of established generic drugs like Hydrocortisone Butyrate but can influence the broader pharmaceutical market.
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch - Latest drug prices and trends for NDC 51672-1387.
- Vizient, Inc. - Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81%.
- ResearchAndMarkets.com - Drug Discovery Technologies Global Research Report 2024.
- DailyMed - Label: HYDROCORTISONE BUTYRATE solution.
- GAO - Brand-Name Prescription Drug Pricing.
Last updated: 2025-01-07
