Heparin sodium is an important pharmaceutical product with a wide range of
applications in the medical field, especially in preventing and treating blood
clotting disorders. The price of heparin sodium can vary significantly depending
on several factors.
Retail Price
In the United States, according to GoodRx, the lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of heparin sodium is around $33.47, which is 90% off the average retail price of $338.98. In China, the price of heparin sodium in the form of injections, tablets, and creams also varies. For example, heparin sodium injections are usually prescribed drugs, and their prices may range from 50 to 200 yuan per injection, depending on factors such as the region, hospital level, and dosage3. Heparin sodium tablets and creams are generally cheaper, with tablets usually costing a few yuan per tablet and creams usually costing tens of yuan.
Wholesale Price
The wholesale prices of heparin sodium also show certain characteristics. For example, Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. offers different wholesale prices for heparin sodium products with different specifications and packaging. In 2021-2026, the wholesale price of 1,000 unit/ml vials was $9.66 (big4 price), and the wholesale price of 5000 iu/ml syringes was $51.56 (fss price). In 2023, the wholesale price of 1,000 unit/ml vials was $25.06 (big4 price), and the wholesale price of 5000 iu/ml syringes was $39.41 (big4 price).
Factors Affecting Price
Source and Quality: The source of heparin sodium and its quality have a significant impact on the price. High-quality heparin sodium produced by advanced manufacturing processes and strict quality control usually has a higher price. For example, heparin sodium derived from specific animal sources or with higher purity may be more expensive124.
Market Demand and Supply: The relationship between market demand and supply is one of the most important factors affecting heparin sodium prices. When the market demand for heparin sodium exceeds the supply, prices tend to rise. For example, in some cases where there is a shortage of raw materials or an increase in the demand for certain medical procedures requiring heparin sodium, prices may increase significantly24.
Production Cost: The production cost of heparin sodium includes raw material costs, manufacturing costs, and quality control costs. Fluctuations in raw material prices, such as the price of pig intestines (a common source of heparin sodium), can directly affect production costs and, consequently, the final price of the product24.
Regulatory Requirements: Stringent regulatory requirements for the production, quality control, and marketing of heparin sodium can also impact its price. Manufacturers need to invest more resources to meet these requirements, which may increase production costs and, in turn, the price of the product.
In conclusion, the price of heparin sodium is affected by multiple factors, and it is important for healthcare providers and patients to consider these factors when making decisions about its use and procurement. Understanding the price dynamics of heparin sodium can help optimize its use and ensure its availability and affordability in the healthcare system.