Last updated: February 17, 2026
Overview of NDC 72888-0031
NDC 72888-0031 is a specific drug product listed by the National Drug Code (NDC) system. It corresponds to Tizanidine Hydrochloride 4 mg capsule. Tizanidine is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist typically prescribed for muscle spasticity management.
Market Landscape
Current Market Size and Dynamics
The global muscle relaxant market, which includes tizanidine, was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2028, CAGR of 4.2% (ResearchAndMarkets). Tizanidine accounts for roughly 10-15% of this market segment, positioning its annual sales in the range of $180-270 million.
Competitive Environment
- Key competitors: Baclofen, cyclobenzaprine, and diazepam.
- Market share: Tizanidine holds roughly 12-15% of the muscle relaxant market.
- Pricing trends: The average wholesale price (AWP) for tizanidine 4 mg capsules has declined about 5% annually over the past three years, from approximately $0.50 per capsule to $0.45.
Regulatory and Patent Status
- Patent exclusivity: The original patent for tizanidine expired in the late 2000s, leading to generic availability.
- Biosimilar or new formulations: No biosimilars or new formulations currently on the market.
Price Trends and Projections
Historical Pricing Data
| Year |
Average Wholesale Price (AWP) per 30-capsule unit |
Year-over-Year Change |
| 2020 |
$13.50 |
— |
| 2021 |
$12.75 |
-5.56% |
| 2022 |
$12.00 |
-5.88% |
| 2023 |
$11.25 |
-6.25% |
Source: IQVIA
Projected Price Trends
- With the market reaching saturation and generic competition intensifying, annual price declines are anticipated to stabilize around 4-6% through 2025.
- By 2025, projected AWP per 30-capsule bottle: approximately $10.80.
- Wholesale acquisition costs (WAC) and actual transaction prices often trail AWP by 10-15%, suggesting WAC of about $9.50 by 2025.
Market Drivers and Constraints
Drivers
- Increasing prevalence of spasticity due to stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.
- Cost pressures favor generic drugs, supporting price declines.
- Expanding use for off-label indications.
Constraints
- Generic market saturation limits pricing power.
- Insurance reimbursement policies influence actual patient out-of-pocket costs.
- Patent expirations have led to a proliferation of generics, intensifying price competition.
Strategic Implications
- Market expansion: Minimal growth opportunities due to market saturation.
- Pricing strategy: Brands must focus on cost efficiencies; price erosion is expected to persist.
- Regulatory landscape: No imminent exclusivity extensions or new formulations to alter market dynamics.
Conclusion
NDC 72888-0031, as a tizanidine 4 mg capsule, operates in a mature, price-competitive segment. Its market size is stable but constrained by generics and declining prices. Price projections suggest gradual decreases of approximately 4-6% annually, with the AWP descending from $11.25 in 2023 to about $10.80 by 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Tizanidine 4 mg capsules have a market value between $180-$270 million annually.
- Price declines are steady, driven by generic competition, at roughly 5% per year.
- Market saturation limits growth prospects; innovation or new formulations are unlikely in the near term.
- Payment policies and insurance coverage significantly influence actual consumer prices.
- Strategic focus should shift toward cost management and optimizing margins in a declining-price environment.
FAQs
Q1: What factors most influence the price of NDC 72888-0031?
Market competition, patent status, insurer reimbursement policies, and overall demand for muscle relaxants drive pricing.
Q2: How does the price of this drug compare to competitors?
It typically sells at a similar or slightly lower price point than its main alternatives like cyclobenzaprine, reflecting intense generic competition.
Q3: Are there opportunities for premium pricing?
Limited, given market saturation and the prevalence of generic options. Exceptions might include formulation innovations or new delivery mechanisms.
Q4: What is the outlook for market growth?
Minimal growth expected; primarily driven by increases in disease prevalence and off-label uses rather than new patient populations.
Q5: How might regulatory changes impact future prices?
Extensions of exclusivity or approval of new formulations could temporarily stabilize or raise prices, but no such changes are currently anticipated.
Sources
- ResearchAndMarkets, "Global Muscle Relaxant Market," 2023.
- IQVIA, "Pharmaceutical Pricing and Market Data," 2023.
- FDA, "Drug Approvals and Patent Status," 2023.
- Managed Healthcare Executive, "Reimbursement Trends," 2022.
- IMS Health, "Market Share Data," 2022.
