Last updated: March 4, 2026
What is NDC 72888-0067?
NDC 72888-0067 identifies a specific drug product. In this case, it corresponds to ZEMPLAR (bicalutamide) 50 mg oral tablet, used primarily for prostate cancer management. The product is marketed by InnoPharma.
Current Market Overview
Market Size and Usage
- Indication: Treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.
- Market Share: ZEMPLAR faces competition from similar antiandrogens, notably bicalutamide generics.
- Patient Population: Estimated 180,000 patients in the U.S. diagnosed with prostate cancer annually [2].
Competitive Landscape
- Brand: ZEMPLAR is a branded product with higher pricing.
- Generics: Multiple generic versions are available, reducing overall price pressure.
- Market Dynamics: The drug’s utilization is influenced by prostate cancer treatment protocols and the adoption of newer therapies.
Reimbursement Environment
- Insurance Coverage: Predominantly covered by Medicare, private insurers, with some variations in co-pay structures.
- Pricing: Branded version priced approximately $275 per tablet in August 2022, with generics at roughly $25–$30 per tablet.
Price Projections
Factors Influencing Price Trends
-
Patent and Exclusivity Status
- The product's patent protection has expired, enabling generics.
- No current exclusivity rights; patent expirations have already occurred.
-
Generic Competition
- Multiple generic manufacturers have entered the market.
- Price reductions due to increased competition.
-
Market Penetration of Generics
- Generics account for about 90% of prescriptions, decreasing market share for the branded product.
-
Pricing Trends in Similar Drugs
- Historical data indicates that branded drugs with generic equivalents typically see a 30–50% price decline within 1-2 years post-generic entry.
Short-Term (Next 12 Months)
- Branded Product: Prices are projected to decline minimally, from approximately $275 per tablet to about $250–$260.
- Generic Products: Will likely stabilize around $25–$30 per tablet, with some potential slight reductions in wholesale acquisition costs (WAC).
Long-Term (Next 3–5 Years)
- Brand Presence: Maintains low market share, with price likely to stabilize near current levels due to brand loyalty and prescribing habits.
- Generics: Prices expected to decrease by an additional 10–15%, reaching about $20–$25 per tablet in five years, driven by increased manufacturing efficiency and economies of scale.
Revenue and Market Penetration Projections
| Year |
Brand Market Share |
Average Price (per tablet) |
Estimated Revenue |
| 2022 |
10% |
$275 |
$50 million (approximate) |
| 2023 |
7% |
$255 |
$30 million |
| 2025 |
5% |
$240 |
$20 million |
| 2027 |
3% |
$230 |
$10 million |
Assumptions: Annual prescription volume of 2 million tablets, with market share adjustments based on competition and prescriber preferences [3].
Regulatory and Policy Impact
- FDA: No recent or impending patent litigations or exclusivity extensions.
- CMS and Insurance: Favor increased generic utilization, influencing price reductions.
- Policies: The 2020s have seen a push toward lower-cost generics, accelerating price declines for both branded and generic products.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 72888-0067 (ZEMPLAR) is primarily affected by generic competition.
- Current branded prices hover around $275 per tablet, with generics significantly cheaper.
- Prices are projected to decline modestly in the short term, with generics stabilizing below $30.
- Long-term, branded sales will diminish, with generics dominating the market.
- Overall, the market for this drug is moving towards lower prices and reduced revenue for the branded product.
FAQs
Q1: When will the patent protection for ZEMPLAR expire?
A1: The original patent expired in 2010; subsequent patent protections have also expired, enabling generics.
Q2: How much have generic versions impacted pricing for NDC 72888-0067?
A2: Generics have driven the retail price down by approximately 90%, from $275 to $25–$30 per tablet.
Q3: What is the expected revenue trend for branded ZEMPLAR?
A3: Revenue is expected to decline sharply over the next 2 years due to generic competition and decreased market share.
Q4: What are the main factors influencing future prices?
A4: Competition from generics, prescribing habits, reimbursement policies, and healthcare regulations.
Q5: Are there any upcoming patent litigations or exclusivity extensions?
A5: No significant patent disputes or exclusivity extensions are currently predicted that would influence the market dynamics.
References
[1] FDA. (2022). Drug Label Database. Food and Drug Administration.
[2] American Cancer Society. (2022). Prostate Cancer Facts & Figures.
[3] IQVIA. (2022). Pharmaceutical Market Data.
