Clara Dong's questions to Heron Therapeutics Inc (HRTX) leadership • Q2 2025
Question
Asked for details on the Zenerlef 400mg transition's impact on Q2 revenue, its expected normalization timeline, and the role of the new J-code in reimbursement, particularly in conjunction with the NO PAIN Act.
Answer
The company explained that the Zenerlef transition caused a temporary inventory drawdown at wholesalers in Q2 but end-user demand continued to grow. They expect wholesaler ordering to normalize in Q3. The new J-code is viewed as a long-term positive, simplifying reimbursement and improving access, especially as commercial payers begin to follow CMS's lead under the NO PAIN Act, though an immediate impact is not expected.