Last updated: February 23, 2026
What is NDC 72603-0478?
NDC 72603-0478 identifies a specific drug marketed under the National Drug Code system. Based on the code, it corresponds to Remdesivir (Veklury), manufactured by Gilead Sciences. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2020, it is used for the treatment of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients.
Market Landscape
Current Market Size
- The global COVID-19 therapeutics market was valued at approximately $11 billion in 2022.
- The U.S. accounts for over 50% of the market, supported by high vaccination rates and hospital capacity.
- Remdesivir sales in the U.S. reached around $1.4 billion in 2022 [1].
Key Competitors
| Drug |
Manufacturer |
Indication |
Approval Status |
2022 US Sales (USD) |
| Remdesivir (Veklury) |
Gilead Sciences |
COVID-19 hospitalization |
FDA approved 2020 |
1.4 billion |
| Paxlovid |
Pfizer |
COVID-19 outpatient |
Emergency Use Authorization |
Estimated $7 billion |
| Molnupiravir |
Merck & Ridgeback |
COVID-19 outpatient |
Emergency Use Authorization |
Data unavailable |
Market Trends
- The introduction of oral antivirals (e.g., Paxlovid) shifts outpatient treatment, reducing hospitalization demand for remdesivir.
- COVID-19 variants impact drug efficacy and sales.
- Evolving treatment guidelines favor outpatient options, potentially decreasing remdesivir's market share over time.
Regulatory Environment
- Remdesivir has received full FDA approval for hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
- Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) remains for other indications in outpatient settings, but is under review.
- Global regulatory approvals vary: granted in Europe, Japan, and other major markets but with differential indications and restrictions.
Price Trends and Projections
Historical Pricing
- The wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for remdesivir was approximately $520 per 100 mg vial in 2021.
- Typical treatment course involves six vials, totaling ~$3,120 per patient.
- Insurance reimbursements and negotiated prices vary, with average net prices estimated between $2,200 and $2,800 per course [2].
Factors Affecting Future Pricing
- Market penetration: As outpatient antivirals expand, hospital demand declines.
- Manufacturing costs: Gilead invests in manufacturing capacity, which could influence price stabilization or decrease.
- Pricing regulations: Policy shifts towards drug pricing transparency and negotiation might lower prices.
- Competitive pressure: The rise of oral therapies reduces reliance on remdesivir.
Short-term Projection (Next 2 Years)
- Demand likely stabilizes at reduced levels; sales estimated between $800 million and $1 billion annually.
- Pricing could decline by 10-20%, especially if negotiated lower by payers or incorporated into bundled reimbursement models.
- Gilead may implement tiered pricing internationally, leading to a global price decrease of approximately 15-25%.
Long-term Outlook (3–5 Years)
- With ongoing vaccination efforts and new therapeutics, remdesivir's market share diminishes.
- Sales declining to below $500 million annually are probable.
- Price per course could further decrease to around $2,000, considering market and regulatory pressures.
Summary Table: Price Projection (USD)
| Year |
Estimated Sales (USD) |
Price per Course (USD) |
Market Share Adjustment |
| 2023 |
900 million to 1 billion |
$2,000 – $2,200 |
Declining compared to 2022 |
| 2024 |
800 million to 900 million |
$1,900 – $2,100 |
Continue downward trend |
| 2025 |
Under $500 million |
~$2,000 |
Further decline expected |
Key Takeaways
- The COVID-19 pandemic sustained remdesivir sales, but market share declines due to oral antivirals.
- International markets may see different pricing adjustments based on regulatory and economic factors.
- Gilead's current and future pricing strategies will depend on competitive landscape and policy environment.
- Demand in hospital settings is likely to decrease over the next two years.
FAQs
1. How does remdesivir compare with oral COVID-19 treatments in pricing?
Oral antivirals like Paxlovid are priced lower per course (~$700–$1,000), but require compliance over five days, whereas remdesivir is a hospital-based, intravenous therapy with a higher total cost (~$2,000+).
2. Will remdesivir's FDA approval status change the market?
Full approval supports sustained use in hospitals but does not prevent the rise of outpatient therapies, which may reduce remdesivir's market share long term.
3. Are international markets more profitable than U.S.?
Pricing varies globally; some countries negotiate lower prices, potentially impacting margins. The U.S. remains the largest single market for remdesivir sales.
4. What regulatory factors could impact remdesivir pricing?
Policy shifts toward drug price negotiation, import tariffs, or international pricing regulations could lower prices over time.
5. What is the potential pipeline for remdesivir?
Research continues into new indications, such as hepatitis and other viral infections, but no significant new approvals are imminent that would markedly boost sales.
Sources
[1] IQVIA. (2023). COVID-19 therapeutics sales and market share report.
[2] Gilead Sciences. (2022). Annual Financial Report.
