Last updated: March 14, 2026
What is NDC 50228-0144?
NDC 50228-0144 refers to a specific drug formulation listed under the National Drug Code system. This 11-digit code specifies a medication's manufacturer, product, strength, and package size. According to available data, NDC 50228-0144 is identified as Liraglutide Injection, 3 mg (common brand: Saxenda), used for obesity management and weight loss.
Market Landscape
Market Size and Growth
The obesity drug market has shown consistent growth over recent years, driven by increased awareness, expanding indications, and broader insurance coverage.
| Year |
Market Size (USD billions) |
CAGR (%) (2018–2022) |
| 2018 |
2.1 |
— |
| 2019 |
2.4 |
14.3 |
| 2020 |
3.0 |
25.0 |
| 2021 |
3.8 |
26.7 |
| 2022 |
4.7 |
23.7 |
The market is projected to reach approximately USD 8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 24-26%.
Competitive Environment
Leading competitors include:
- Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Saxenda
- Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for obesity
- Off-label use and generics are limited due to patent protections.
Regulatory and Reimbursement Factors
The FDA approved Saxenda (liraglutide) for weight management in 2014. The drug is covered under many insurance plans, though coverage varies significantly by region and payer policies.
Recent approval of higher doses and additional indications could expand the market.
Price Projections
Current Pricing and Reimbursement
The average wholesale price (AWP) for Saxenda (liraglutide, 3 mg) is approximately USD 1,200 to USD 1,400 per 30-day supply, depending on pharmacy and region.
| Pricing Parameter |
Value |
| Average wholesale price (USD) |
$1,200 – $1,400/month |
| List price (USD) |
Approximately $1,470 per pen (3 mg dosage) |
| Reimbursement rate |
70%–90% depending on insurer |
Future Price Trends
Anticipated factors influencing pricing:
- Patent expiration and biosimilar entry: No biosimilar options for liraglutide currently exist; patent expiry is not expected before 2030.
- Market competition: Introduction of more affordable alternatives or generics would pressure prices.
- Formulation improvements: Extended-release formulations could increase prices.
- Reimbursement policies: Stricter coverage policies and value-based models may influence effective patient cost.
Price Projection Summary (2023–2027)
| Year |
Estimated Average Price (USD) |
Price Change (%) |
| 2023 |
$1,400 |
— |
| 2024 |
$1,350–$1,450 |
-3.6% to +3.6% |
| 2025 |
$1,300–$1,400 |
-7.1% to +0% |
| 2026 |
$1,250–$1,350 |
-10.7% to –3.6% |
| 2027 |
$1,200–$1,300 |
-14.3% to –7.1% |
Price decline mitigated by limited biosimilar competition and brand loyalty, barring patent expiry or biosimilar approval.
Regulatory and Policy Impact
- Introduction of value-based pricing models could lead to discounts or rebates.
- Health economics assessments may influence formulary placement and negotiated prices.
- Potential extension of indications (beyond obesity to diabetes) could impact demand and pricing strategies.
Key Market Drivers and Risks
Drivers:
- Increasing prevalence of obesity globally.
- Growing acceptance of injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists.
- Insurance coverage expansion for weight management drugs.
Risks:
- Patent expiration and biosimilar development.
- Price regulation initiatives.
- Competitive launches of newer agents with superior efficacy or safety profiles.
Key Takeaways
- The current market valuation for NDC 50228-0144, representing liraglutide for obesity, is approximately USD 1,200–USD 1,400 per month.
- The market is forecasted to grow to USD 8 billion by 2025, with high growth potential driven by obesity prevalence.
- Price declines are anticipated but will be moderated by limited biosimilar competition.
- Industry shifts toward value-based care and potential patent expiries could significantly influence future pricing.
FAQs
1. What are the primary factors affecting the price of NDC 50228-0144?
Patent protection, market competition, manufacturing costs, reimbursement policies, and formulary negotiations influence pricing.
2. How does the pricing of liraglutide compare to other obesity treatments?
Liraglutide's average monthly cost exceeds that of some oral agents; however, injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists often justify higher prices due to efficacy and safety profiles.
3. When are biosimilar versions of liraglutide expected?
No biosimilars are approved as of 2023; patent expiry is anticipated around 2030.
4. What impact will new indications or formulations have on pricing?
New indications can increase demand, potentially sustaining higher prices. Extended-release formulations may command premium pricing.
5. How do insurance reimbursement policies affect out-of-pocket costs?
Coverage levels significantly influence patient affordability; high co-pays may limit access despite high list prices.
Sources:
- Statista. (2022). Obesity drugs market size.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). Approval of Saxenda.
- IQVIA. (2023). Prescription drug price trends.
- EvaluatePharma. (2022). Market forecast for obesity treatments.
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2022). Reimbursement policies for specialty drugs.
