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Last Updated: June 14, 2025

Drug Price Trends for BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF


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Drug Price Trends for BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF

Average Pharmacy Cost for BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF

These are average pharmacy acquisition costs (net of discounts) from a US national survey
Drug Name NDC Price/Unit ($) Unit Date
BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF 50-325-40 TAB 00527-1695-05 0.13180 EACH 2024-12-18
BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF 50-325-40 TAB 51862-0540-05 0.13180 EACH 2024-12-18
BUTALB-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFF 50-325-40 TAB 00527-1695-01 0.13180 EACH 2024-12-18
>Drug Name >NDC >Price/Unit ($) >Unit >Date

Market Analysis and Price Projections for Butalbital-Acetaminophen-Caffeine

Introduction

Butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine, a combination medication commonly known by brand names such as Fioricet and Esgic, is widely used for the treatment of tension headaches. This article delves into the market analysis, price projections, and other key aspects of this medication.

Market Overview

The global market for acetaminophen, a key component of this combination drug, is substantial and growing. As of 2022, the global acetaminophen market was valued at USD 9.8 billion and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.2% to reach USD 15.2 billion by 2033[3].

Demand Drivers

The demand for butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is driven by several factors, including the rising need for effective pain management solutions and the increasing awareness of the risks associated with opioid use. Many individuals who have become opioid-tolerant or are at risk of opioid addiction are turning to alternative pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen-based combinations[3].

Medical Uses and Indications

Butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is primarily indicated for the treatment of tension headaches. The combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine provides a synergistic effect, with acetaminophen offering analgesic and antipyretic properties, butalbital acting as a muscle relaxant and sedative, and caffeine enhancing the overall pain-relieving effects[4].

Regulatory Status

Approved for medical use in the United States in 1984, butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is available as a generic medication. In some states, it is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance, although it is not federally controlled[1].

Pricing and Cost Analysis

The cost of butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine varies depending on the dosage form, quantity, and pharmacy.

Oral Tablets

  • A supply of 30 oral tablets (325 mg-50 mg-40 mg) can cost between $19.45 and $24.21, with prices varying by pharmacy[2].
  • Using discount cards, such as those from SingleCare, can significantly reduce the cost to around $10.23 for 30 tablets[5].

Oral Capsules

  • For oral capsules, the cost can range from $94.42 for 60 capsules to $1,257.53 for 500 capsules, depending on the quantity and pharmacy[2].

Brand vs. Generic

The generic form of butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is significantly cheaper than the brand-name variant. For example, the generic version can cost as low as $10.23 for 30 tablets, compared to the brand-name version which typically costs more[5].

Market Trends and Projections

Competitive Landscape

The market for pain relief medications, including butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine, is highly competitive. Companies like AbbVie, Inc. are actively involved in the research and development of drugs targeting multiple receptors, including A1R, A2aR, COX, and GABAA receptors[4].

Growth Prospects

Given the growing demand for non-opioid pain relief solutions, the market for butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is expected to remain stable or see moderate growth. The global acetaminophen market's projected CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2033 indicates a favorable outlook for acetaminophen-based combinations[3].

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Prolonged use of butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine can lead to rebound headaches, and rare but serious side effects such as Stevens–Johnson syndrome can occur with barbiturate use[1].

R&D Progress

The combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine has reached the highest phase of development, indicating regulatory approval for use. This drug targets multiple receptors, providing a broader spectrum of pain relief compared to single-target drugs[4].

Prescription Data

In 2022, the combination butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine was the 248th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with over 1 million prescriptions[1].

Regional Variations

While butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is widely used in the United States, it is banned in several European countries, highlighting regional differences in regulatory approaches to this medication[1].

Key Takeaways

  • Market Size and Growth: The global acetaminophen market, which includes butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine, is valued at USD 9.8 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% to 2033.
  • Pricing: The cost of butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine varies, but generic versions are significantly cheaper than brand-name variants.
  • Medical Uses: Primarily indicated for tension headaches, this combination offers a synergistic pain-relieving effect.
  • Regulatory Status: Approved in the U.S. in 1984, with varying regulatory classifications across states.
  • Side Effects: Prolonged use can lead to rebound headaches and rare but serious side effects.

FAQs

What is butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine used for?

Butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine is primarily used for the treatment of tension headaches.

How much does butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine cost?

The cost varies, but a supply of 30 oral tablets can range from $19.45 to $24.21, with discounts available through cards like SingleCare.

Is butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine a controlled substance?

In some U.S. states, it is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance, although it is not federally controlled.

What are the potential side effects of butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine?

Prolonged use can cause rebound headaches, and rare but serious side effects such as Stevens–Johnson syndrome can occur.

Is butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine available in generic form?

Yes, it is available as a generic medication, which is significantly cheaper than the brand-name version.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia: Butalbital/acetaminophen
  2. Drugs.com: Acetaminophen/butalbital/caffeine Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance
  3. Future Market Insights: Acetaminophen Market Size, Share, Trends & Outlook - 2033
  4. Synapse by PatSnap: An In-depth Analysis of acetaminophen/butalbital/caffeine's R&D Progress
  5. SingleCare: Butalbital-Apap-Caffeine Coupons & Prices
Last updated: 2025-01-02

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