Last updated: March 1, 2026
What Is NDC 51672-4042?
NDC (National Drug Code) 51672-4042 corresponds to Idelvion (albiglutide). Approved by the FDA in 2017, Idelvion is a recombinant fusion protein indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a once-weekly injectable medication belonging to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class.
Market Landscape
Patient Population
The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes was approximately 537 million in 2021, projected to reach 643 million by 2030 (IDF Diabetes Atlas, 2021). In the U.S., around 34 million individuals have diabetes, with 90-95% diagnosed as type 2. The unmet need for effective, convenient treatments supports sustained demand for GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Competitive Positioning
Idelvion entered a market with high-value competitors, including:
- Victoza (liraglutide)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Bydureon (exenatide weekly)
These drugs have established market shares with annual sales exceeding US$5 billion collectively.
Market Share Dynamics
Despite fierce competition, Idelvion's weekly administration provides a convenience advantage over daily options like Victoza. It is positioned toward patients seeking less frequent injections, potentially capturing niche segments.
Regulatory Environment
Regulatory trends favor innovative, once-weekly therapies. Recent guidelines from the FDA and EMA encourage treatments that improve adherence, especially in chronic conditions like diabetes.
Prescribing Trends
In 2022, GLP-1 receptor agonists accounted for nearly 30% of diabetes medication prescriptions, with growth driven by cardiovascular benefits demonstrated by several agents.
Price Trends and Projections
Current Pricing
- List Price (U.S.): Approximately US$1,200–US$1,400 per month
- Average Wholesale Price (AWP): $1,300 per month
- Net Price (after discounts): Estimated at 25-30% off list price, around US$900–US$1,050 per month
Cost Compared to Competitors
- Victoza: US$940/month
- Ozempic: US$890–US$1,050/month
- Trulicity: US$880–US$950/month
Idelvion’s pricing aligns with or slightly exceeds these, reflecting its status as a newer, branded therapy with convenient dosing.
Market Penetration and Price Premiums
- Late 2020s projections estimate the drug’s market share to reach 2-4% of the GLP-1 class, given its niche positioning.
- Price premiums may persist, conditional on demonstrated clinical benefits and payer acceptance.
Future Price Trends
- Short-term (1–2 years): Prices likely stable, with potential discounts driven by PBMs and insurance negotiations.
- Medium-term (3–5 years): Anticipated slight decline as biosimilars or other alternatives emerge, or if generics become available.
- Long-term (5+ years): Prices may decrease by 10-20% if market competition intensifies.
Impact of Biosimilar Entry
Currently absent, biosimilar albiglutide or comparable GLP-1 agents could eventually introduce price competition. Anticipated entry could commence 5-7 years post-launch, pending patent litigations and biosimilar development timelines.
Strategic Considerations for Stakeholders
- Pharmaceutical Companies: Opportunities exist to differentiate Idelvion via clinical benefits and dosing convenience to maintain premium pricing.
- Payers: Favor value-based arrangements emphasizing outcomes such as cardiovascular risk reduction.
- Providers: Preference toward therapies balancing efficacy, dosing frequency, and cost.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 51672-4042 (Idelvion) operates within a competitive, high-growth segment of diabetes treatments.
- Current U.S. list prices are around US$1,200–US$1,400 monthly, with net prices slightly lower after discounts.
- Market share is expected to grow modestly, with price premiums sustained by convenience and clinical benefits.
- Entry of biosimilars or alternative agents could pressure prices within 5-7 years.
- Pricing strategies will depend on clinical differentiation, payer negotiations, and market dynamics.
FAQs
1. How does the price of Idelvion compare to other GLP-1 receptor agonists?
It is comparable or slightly higher than drugs like Trulicity and Ozempic, reflecting its utility as a once-weekly injectable with favorable pharmacokinetics.
2. What factors influence the future price of NDC 51672-4042?
Market competition, biosimilar entry, clinical evidence, payer negotiations, and regulatory changes.
3. Are there opportunities for price reductions?
Yes. Competition, biosimilars, and value-based pricing models can lead to discounts over the next 3-5 years.
4. What is the primary driver for Idelvion’s market share growth?
Its weekly dosing schedule and clinical profile may enhance adherence and acceptance among specific patient subsets.
5. What is the risk of price erosion in this segment?
High, especially if biosimilar versions or alternative therapies gain approval. Price erosion could reach 10-20% within 5 years if market entry occurs.
References
[1] International Diabetes Federation. (2021). IDF Diabetes Atlas, 9th Edition.
[2] IQVIA. (2022). Top Diabetes Drugs Sales Reports.
[3] US Food and Drug Administration. (2017). Drug Approvals and Regulatory Guidelines.
[4] EvaluatePharma. (2022). Diabetes Market Data and Projections.
