Last updated: February 15, 2026
What Is the Drug Associated with NDC 00143-9597?
The National Drug Code (NDC) 00143-9597 corresponds to Targretin (bexarotene) capsules. Targretin is an oral retinoid used primarily for treating cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in patients resistant to other therapies.
Market Size and Demand Dynamics
Market Scope:
- Indication: CTCL, a rare cutaneous non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Patient Population: Estimated prevalence of CTCL in the U.S. is approximately 5,000 to 7,000 patients annually[1].
- Off-label Use: Some off-label applications include other skin lymphomas and dermatological conditions, though limited.
Market Drivers:
- Increasing diagnosis rates of CTCL
- Growing awareness leading to earlier detection
- Physician familiarity with targeted therapies
Market Challenges:
- Limited patient population constrains total market size
- Competition from other systemic therapies (e.g., brentuximab vedotin)
- Patent exclusivity status influencing future sales
Competitive Landscape
| Drug Name |
Type |
Year Approved |
Notable Features |
| Targretin (bexarotene) |
Retinoid |
1999 (FDA) |
First oral retinoid approved for CTCL |
| Merck's Targretin |
Same as above |
1999 |
Market leader in its class |
| Other systemic drugs |
Targeted therapies |
Various |
Brentuximab vedotin (2017), Mogamulizumab (2018) |
Market share: Targretin maintains the majority share within this niche, owing to its long-standing approval and established dosing protocols.
Pricing Analysis
Current Price Points:
- Average wholesale price (AWP) for a 30-capsule bottle (at 150 mg dose): $5,600 to $6,200.
- Per capsule: ~$180 to $200.
- Patient out-of-pocket costs are variable, often reduced via insurance, with average copays around $50–$100 per prescription.
Pricing Trends:
- Prices have remained relatively stable over the past five years.
- No significant generic competition exists due to patent protections, though patent expirations could influence future pricing.
Price Projection Methodology
Assumptions:
- No major patent expirations occurs within the next 3 years.
- Market growth follows a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2%.
- No drastic shifts occur from biosimilar or generic entries, given the complexity of formulations and regulatory barriers.
Projection Results (2018-2028):
| Year |
Estimated Price per Capsule |
Justification |
| 2023 |
$200 |
Stable, with inflation adjustment |
| 2024 |
$205 |
2.5% price increase assumed |
| 2025 |
$211 |
Consistent growth |
| 2026 |
$217 |
Minor increases aligned with inflation |
| 2027 |
$223 |
No significant price erosion anticipated |
| 2028 |
$229 |
Slight uptick expected |
Note: These projections do not account for potential patent expiries or market disruptions.
Future Market Risks and Opportunities
Risks:
- Patent challenges could introduce generics, lowering prices.
- Biologic and biosimilar entrants could introduce price competition.
- Changes in clinical guidelines or approval of new therapies might reduce demand for Targretin.
Opportunities:
- Expanding indications may grow the patient pool.
- Partnership or licensing agreements could enhance access and distribution.
- Development of optimized formulations may command premium prices.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 00143-9597 refers to Targretin (bexarotene) capsules, approved since 1999 for CTCL.
- The global market remains small, driven by a limited patient population.
- Current wholesale prices are around $5,600–$6,200 per bottle; prices per capsule are approximately $200.
- Price projections suggest stability with slight increases over the next five years, assuming patent protections and stable demand.
- Market risks include patent expiry and emerging therapies, while opportunities lie in new indications and formulations.
FAQs
1. How does patent status impact Targretin pricing?
Patent protections prevent generic entry, maintaining high prices. Patent expiration could lead to price erosion due to generic competition.
2. Are there biosimilars or generics available for Targretin?
No, currently there are no approved biosimilars or generics, primarily because of patent protections and formulation complexities.
3. How does the competition influence future price projections?
New therapies targeting CTCL could compete on efficacy and price, potentially reducing Targretin's market share and prices.
4. What are the key factors influencing demand?
Demand depends on CTCL prevalence, physician prescribing habits, and approval of new or alternative treatments.
5. Can off-label use significantly affect sales?
Limited to specific dermatological conditions; the primary driver remains CTCL treatment, with off-label use comprising a small portion of market demand.
Sources
[1] National Cancer Institute. "Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version," 2022.
