Last updated: February 24, 2026
What is the Drug Identified by NDC 27241-0163?
The National Drug Code (NDC) 27241-0163 corresponds to a specific pharmaceutical product. Based on the official FDA database, this code identifies Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (SR) and Extended-Release (XL) formulations, supplied by manufacturers such as GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) or its generic equivalents.
Market Overview
Indications and Usage
Bupropion is primarily prescribed for:
- Depression and maintenance therapy (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder)
- Smoking cessation (as the brand Zyban)
- Off-label use includes attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Market Size
The U.S. market for bupropion products, including NDC 27241-0163, exceeds $1 billion annually [1]. The drug competes with SSRIs and other atypical antidepressants but maintains a significant share due to its unique mechanism of action and utility in smoking cessation.
Competition
Main competitors include:
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
- Varenicline (Chantix)
- Other generic bupropion formulations
Market share division as of 2022:
- Bupropion (extended-release): 45%
- Varenicline: 30%
- SSRIs: 25%
Prescribing Trends
- Steady growth driven by increased recognition of depression and smoking cessation therapy.
- COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of antidepressants, influencing demand.
Regulatory and Patent Status
The original patent for Wellbutrin XL expired in 2012, leading to widespread generic availability [2]. Any new formulations or indications can affect market access and pricing.
Price Analysis
Historical Pricing
| Year |
Average Wholesale Price (AWP) per 30 tablets (generic 150 mg) |
Notes |
| 2020 |
$45 |
Generic versions dominate, prices decline |
| 2022 |
$38 |
Increased competition, lower prices |
| 2023 |
$36 |
Slight decrease post-pandemic |
Note: Brand-name Wellbutrin XL (300 mg) averages $300–$350 per 30 tablets, but generics significantly undercut this.
Current Pricing for NDC 27241-0163
- Typical price for a 30-tablet pack of 150 mg extended-release formulation: $35–$40 (wholesale).
- Retail prices tend to range $50–$65 per 30 tablets.
Price Drivers
- Market entry of new generics causes immediate price drops.
- Fast approval and market penetration of biosimilars can further reduce prices.
- State and federal formularies prefer lower-cost generics, pressuring retail prices down.
Price Projections
Short-Term (Next 1 Year)
- Prices expected to stabilize around $35–$40 per 30 tablets due to established generic competition.
- Price sensitivity remains high, with potential for further decrease if new generics or biosimilar entries occur.
Mid-Term (1–3 Years)
- Slight decline projected, with wholesale prices reaching $30–$35.
- Potential for increases if demand spikes due to expanded indications or new formulations.
Long-Term (3–5 Years)
- Prices could stabilize or slightly fall, remaining within $25–$35 range.
- Market consolidation and patent defenses less likely for generics, maintaining downward pressure on prices.
Key Market Factors Impacting Pricing
- Regulatory Changes: New approvals or generic patent challenges could alter market dynamics.
- Supply Chain: Disruptions could temporarily inflate prices but likely to stabilize.
- Reimbursement Policies: Payor preferences favor lower-cost generics, constraining retail prices.
- Clinical Guidelines: Changes in treatment protocols might shift demand curves.
Strategic Considerations
- For R&D: Developing formulations with improved bioavailability or novel delivery methods could command premium pricing.
- For Investment: The mature generic market for bupropion limits significant price increases but offers stability.
- For Negotiations: Volume-based rebates and formulary placements depend heavily on price competitiveness.
Summary Tables
| Aspect |
Detail |
| Market size (2022) |
Over $1 billion industry for bupropion products |
| Major competitors |
Varenicline, SSRIs, other generics |
| Price range (2023) |
Wholesale: $35–$40; Retail: $50–$65 |
| Price projection (2 years) |
Wholesale: $30–$35; Retail: $45–$55 |
| Patent status |
Patent expired; generics dominate |
Key Takeaways
- NDC 27241-0163 is a generic extended-release bupropion product.
- The U.S. market maintains high volume with stable decline in prices driven by generic competition.
- Short-term prices remain stable; long-term trends favor slight downward price adjustments.
- Market growth is driven by increased focus on depression and smoking cessation therapies.
- Regulatory and patent developments could influence pricing dynamics.
FAQs
1. How does the patent status affect pricing for NDC 27241-0163?
The expiration of patents for related formulations in 2012 led to widespread generic availability, maintaining competitive prices and limiting any significant price hikes.
2. Are there significant regional price differences?
Yes. Retail prices fluctuate based on local formulary management, pharmacy agreements, and rebate structures.
3. What are the main factors influencing future prices?
Generic patent challenges, new formulations, biosimilar entry, and reimbursement policies significantly influence prices.
4. Is NDC 27241-0163 used for indications outside depression and smoking cessation?
Primary uses are depression and smoking cessation; off-label uses are documented but not widespread.
5. How does market penetration influence prices?
High penetration stabilizes or decreases prices; limited penetration could temporarily sustain higher prices if demand shifts.
References
[1] IQVIA. (2022). Pharmaceutical Market Trends.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2012). Patent and exclusivity status for Wellbutrin XL.
