Understanding the Drug and Its NDC
The National Drug Code (NDC) 66993-0423 corresponds to Lanthanum Carbonate 750 MG, a chewable tablet used primarily for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. This drug is identified and tracked by the FDA through its unique NDC number[4].
Current Pricing Trends
As of the latest data, the price per unit for Lanthanum Carbonate 750 MG tablets with the NDC 66993-0423 has been relatively stable, with minor fluctuations. For example, as of December 18, 2024, the price per unit was $3.62738[1].
Market Context and Influencing Factors
Drug Price Inflation
The pharmaceutical market is experiencing a projected drug price inflation rate of 3.8% in 2025, driven largely by specialty pharmaceuticals, including those for weight loss, cancer, and other complex conditions. This inflation rate is the highest since July 2019 and is expected to impact provider budgets significantly[3].
Specialty Pharmaceuticals
Specialty pharmaceuticals, which include drugs like Lanthanum Carbonate, are a significant driver of the projected price increase. These drugs treat high-cost, complex, or chronic conditions and make up the majority of the top spend medications among pharmacy program participants[3].
Biosimilars
While biosimilars are expected to grow in market share and offer some cost relief, their impact on the overall price inflation is minimal, with a projected price increase of only 0.55% for biosimilars. However, biosimilars may gain more market share as pharmacy benefit managers finalize their formulary strategies[3].
Impact of Expanding Indications and New Approvals
The expanding indications of previously approved medications, such as semaglutide, which saw a 77% increase in spend since the summer 2023 Outlook, contribute to the overall price inflation. Additionally, the anticipated increase in high-cost cell and gene therapies entering the market will further impact provider budgets[2].
Medicare Price Negotiation
The Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to negotiate lower prices for Medicare-covered drugs could have broader implications for the pharmaceutical market. While Lanthanum Carbonate is not among the first ten drugs selected for this program, the success of these negotiations could lead to increased pressure on manufacturers to lower prices across the board. For example, drugs like Januvia and Farxiga, which are also used by Medicare patients, will see significant price reductions starting in 2026, cutting list prices by 38% to 79%[5].
Price Projections
Given the current trends and influencing factors:
Short-Term Projections
- The price per unit for Lanthanum Carbonate 750 MG tablets is likely to remain stable or see minor increases in the short term, aligning with the overall 3.8% drug price inflation projection.
Long-Term Projections
- As the market adjusts to the introduction of more biosimilars and the impact of Medicare price negotiations, there could be downward pressure on prices. However, this would depend on how these factors specifically affect the demand and supply of Lanthanum Carbonate.
- The increasing utilization of specialty pharmaceuticals and the expansion of gene therapies may continue to drive up costs, potentially offsetting any savings from biosimilars or price negotiations.
Key Considerations for Providers and Patients
Budgeting and Supply Chain Management
Providers need to manage pharmacy expenditures carefully, considering the rising costs of specialty pharmaceuticals and the potential impact of new therapies on their budgets. Strengthening the supply chain is crucial to mitigate drug shortages and cost increases[3].
Patient Impact
Patients, especially those on Medicare, may see some relief in the future as negotiated prices for certain drugs take effect. However, the specific impact on Lanthanum Carbonate will depend on whether it is included in future negotiation programs or if market forces drive its price down.
Conclusion
The market analysis for Lanthanum Carbonate 750 MG tablets (NDC 66993-0423) indicates a stable but potentially increasing price trend in the short term, driven by broader pharmaceutical market factors. Long-term projections suggest that while there may be some downward pressure on prices due to biosimilars and Medicare negotiations, the overall impact will depend on various market and regulatory factors.
Key Takeaways
- Current Pricing: Stable with minor fluctuations.
- Market Trends: 3.8% drug price inflation driven by specialty pharmaceuticals.
- Biosimilars: Expected to grow in market share but with minimal impact on overall price inflation.
- Medicare Negotiations: Potential for broader market impact but not directly affecting Lanthanum Carbonate currently.
- Long-Term Projections: Possible downward pressure from biosimilars and negotiations, but offset by increasing costs of new therapies.
FAQs
Q: What is the current price per unit for Lanthanum Carbonate 750 MG tablets with NDC 66993-0423?
A: As of December 18, 2024, the price per unit is $3.62738[1].
Q: What is driving the projected 3.8% drug price inflation in 2025?
A: The inflation is driven by specialty pharmaceuticals, including those for weight loss, cancer, and other complex conditions[3].
Q: How will biosimilars affect the price of Lanthanum Carbonate?
A: Biosimilars are expected to grow in market share but will have a minimal impact on the overall price inflation, with a projected increase of only 0.55%[3].
Q: What is the impact of Medicare price negotiations on the pharmaceutical market?
A: The negotiations could lead to broader market pressure to lower prices, although Lanthanum Carbonate is not currently included in these negotiations[5].
Q: How can providers manage the rising costs of pharmaceuticals?
A: Providers should focus on managing pharmacy expenditures carefully and strengthening their supply chain to mitigate drug shortages and cost increases[3].
Sources
- Drug Price Trends for NDC 66993-0423 - DrugPatentWatch
- Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81% - Vizient Inc.
- Vizient Projects 3.8% Drug Price Increase Driven by Specialty Pharmaceuticals - Vizient Inc.
- National Drug Code Directory - FDA
- FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Announces New, Lower Prices for First Ten Drugs Selected for Medicare Price Negotiation - The White House
