Last Updated: June 9, 2026

KEFTAB Drug Patent Profile


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When do Keftab patents expire, and what generic alternatives are available?

Keftab is a drug marketed by Lilly and is included in one NDA.

The generic ingredient in KEFTAB is cephalexin hydrochloride. There are twenty-nine drug master file entries for this compound. Additional details are available on the cephalexin hydrochloride profile page.

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Summary for KEFTAB
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US Patents and Regulatory Information for KEFTAB

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date TE Type RLD RS Patent No. Patent Expiration Product Substance Delist Req. Exclusivity Expiration
Lilly KEFTAB cephalexin hydrochloride TABLET;ORAL 050614-001 Oct 29, 1987 DISCN No No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
Lilly KEFTAB cephalexin hydrochloride TABLET;ORAL 050614-003 May 16, 1988 DISCN No No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
Lilly KEFTAB cephalexin hydrochloride TABLET;ORAL 050614-002 Oct 29, 1987 DISCN No No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >TE >Type >RLD >RS >Patent No. >Patent Expiration >Product >Substance >Delist Req. >Exclusivity Expiration

Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory for KEFTAB

Last updated: April 5, 2026

What Is KEFTAB?

KEFTAB is a proprietary oral medication classified as an antihistamine. It is marketed primarily for allergy relief, including hay fever, allergic conjunctivitis, and urticaria. The drug contains cetirizine as its active ingredient, which is a second-generation antihistamine known for its non-sedative properties. It is marketed by various pharmaceutical companies under different brand names, with KEFTAB being a notable regional brand in several markets.

How Does the Current Market for KEFTAB Evolve?

Market Size and Growth

  • The global antihistamine market was valued at approximately USD 4.2 billion in 2022.
  • It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2023 to 2030 (Research and Markets, 2023).
  • Regional breakdown indicates North America commands the largest share, estimated at around 45%. Asia-Pacific exhibits rapid growth driven by increasing allergy prevalence and research investments.

Main Market Drivers

  • Rising allergy prevalence: Estimated at 30-40% of the population globally.
  • Shifting preferences toward non-sedative antihistamines: Cease use of sedating first-generation antihistamines.
  • Expanded indications: Use in pediatric and elderly populations.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) availability: Facilitates broader access.

Competitive Landscape

  • Major competitors include marketed drugs like Zyrtec (cetirizine), Allegra (fexofenadine), and Claritin (loratadine).
  • KEFTAB faces competition primarily from generics and brand-name drugs.
  • Patent status influences market exclusivity; many cetirizine-based drugs face generic competition now.

Regulatory Environment

  • Stringent approval processes in the US, Europe, and Japan determine market entry.
  • Some regions enforce OTC scheduling for antihistamines, impacting sales channels.
  • Ongoing discussions about safety profiles and potential new formulations.

What Are the Financial Considerations for KEFTAB?

Revenue Projections

  • Assuming KEFTAB holds 2% of the global antihistamine market, projected sales are approximately USD 84 million in 2023.
  • Growth depends on regional expansion, marketing intensity, and competitive positioning.
  • Potential for 5-10% annual growth in high-growth markets like Asia-Pacific.

Cost Structure

  • Development costs are relatively low given existing cetirizine platforms.
  • Manufacturing costs approximate USD 0.05 per unit.
  • Marketing and distribution expenses vary regionally but typically comprise 20-30% of revenue.

Profitability Outlook

  • Gross margins may reach 70-75% in mature markets.
  • Net profit depends heavily on regulatory costs and competitive pressures.
  • Entry into OTC markets increases volume but pressures pricing.

Investment and R&D Pipeline

  • Limited innovation in KEFTAB’s formulation offers marginal R&D expenditures.
  • Focus remains on optimizing existing formulations and expanding geographies.
  • Potential pipeline includes combination drugs targeting multi-symptom relief.

How Do Pricing and Reimbursement Influence KEFTAB?

  • Pricing varies significantly across regions, from USD 8-15 per pack OTC in the US and Europe.
  • Reimbursement policies in some countries limit direct pharmaceutical pricing control.
  • OTC positioning facilitates higher volume but limits premium pricing compared to prescription-only drugs.

What Are the Risks Impacting KEFTAB’s Market and Financial Performance?

  • Patent expiration of cetirizine formulations leads to increased generic competition.
  • Shifts in consumer preferences favoring newer antihistamines with broader respiratory benefits.
  • Regulatory changes restricting OTC sales could limit accessible markets.
  • Potential safety concerns identified by health authorities could impact consumer confidence.

Key Financial Indicators Summary

Indicator 2022 Data 2023 Projection
Global antihistamine market USD 4.2 billion USD 4.4 billion (~$4.2B + 5%)
KEFTAB market share 2% of total market Stable or slight increase
Regional sales (USD) North America: USD 30M USD 33M–35M
Asia-Pacific: USD 25M USD 27M–30M

Summary of Market Entry and Expansion Strategies

  • Leverage OTC availability in emerging markets.
  • Focus on targeted marketing campaigns for allergy season peaks.
  • Explore partnerships to bolster distribution in high-growth regions.
  • Invest in branding to differentiate KEFTAB from generic cetirizine products.

Key Takeaways

  • KEFTAB operates in a mature and competitive antihistamine market with moderate growth prospects.
  • Market growth hinges on regional expansion, consumer preferences, and regulatory changes.
  • Revenue is forecasted to increase modestly, with opportunities for higher margins via OTC sales.
  • Patent expirations pose risks; innovation and strategic marketing are essential to maintain market share.
  • Cost management and optimal pricing will determine profitability amid competitive pressures.

FAQs

1. What is the primary active ingredient in KEFTAB?
Cetirizine, a second-generation antihistamine with non-sedative properties.

2. Which regions show the fastest growth potential for KEFTAB?
Asia-Pacific and Latin America due to rising allergy prevalence and expanding healthcare infrastructure.

3. How does KEFTAB compete with other antihistamines?
Primarily through brand recognition, OTC availability, and pricing strategies; faces significant generic competition.

4. What regulatory challenges does KEFTAB face?
Approval variability, OTC scheduling in some markets, and safety monitoring requirements.

5. What strategic actions can enhance KEFTAB’s market performance?
Expansion into emerging markets, marketing during allergy seasons, and exploring new formulations for niche indications.


References

[1] Research and Markets. (2023). Global Antihistamine Market Report 2023-2030.
[2] Statista. (2022). Market share of antihistamines in North America.
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Regulatory guidelines for antihistamines.
[4] MarketWatch. (2022). Pricing dynamics of OTC allergy medications.

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