Last updated: March 2, 2026
What Does the NDC 72888-0173 Represent?
The National Drug Code (NDC) 72888-0173 refers to a specific medication listed in the United States. Based on available data, this NDC corresponds to Victoza (liraglutide) injection, used for type 2 diabetes management and specific weight management indications under approved label extensions.
Market Overview
Therapeutic Area and Competitive Landscape
Liraglutide belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class, competing primarily with drugs such as:
- Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
- Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon)
The GLP-1 market has experienced rapid growth due to proven efficacy in glycemic control and weight loss, with significant adoption in type 2 diabetes treatment.
Market Size and Growth
In 2022, the global GLP-1 receptor agonist market was valued around USD 10 billion. The U.S. accounted for roughly 60% of sales, driven by high prevalence of diabetes and obesity.
Key Drivers
- Increasing diabetes prevalence (estimated 37 million Americans)
- Expanding label indications for weight management
- Healthcare payers covering newer GLP-1 therapies
- Growing preference for injectable therapies with proven cardiovascular benefits
Barriers
- High drug prices
- Injection-based administration
- Competition from oral GLP-1 formulations (e.g., Rybelsus)
- Patent exclusivity periods
Current Market Position of Liraglutide (Victoza)
Victoza retains strong market share for glycemic control, though its position has been challenged by newer agents with added benefits. Multiple biosimilars are not yet approved or available in the U.S., limiting price competition.
Pharmacoeconomic and Reimbursement Dynamics
Reimbursement policies favor drugs with demonstrated clinical benefits and cost-effectiveness. Payers are increasingly prioritizing drugs with proven cardiovascular outcome benefits, such as liraglutide.
Price Analysis
Current Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC)
As of Q4 2022, Victoza's average list price is approximately USD 800–850 per 3 mL multidose pen (based on wholesalers like Elsevier and GoodRx sources).^1
Net Price and Reimbursement
Insurance coverage, rebates, and patient assistance programs reduce actual patient out-of-pocket costs. Net prices are estimated to be 10-20% lower than list prices.
Price Trends
Prices have remained relatively stable over the past 12–24 months but are subject to possible reductions upon patent expiry or increased biosimilar competition.
Price Projections (Next 3-5 Years)
| Year |
Estimated Wholesale Price (USD) |
Notes |
| 2023 |
800–850 |
Current pricing, no significant change |
| 2024 |
780–830 |
Slight decline due to market pressures |
| 2025 |
750–820 |
Potential for further reduction with biosimilar entry or healthcare reforms |
Prices in the projections account for market competition, payer negotiations, and inflation. Actual net prices for payers or patients could be lower.
Strategic Implications
- Entry of biosimilar liraglutide products may reduce list prices by 20-30% (anticipated around 2026)
- Increased emphasis on weight management indications could expand potential patient base
- Price reductions might occur ahead of patent expiry on 2028, or if regulatory pathways for biosimilars shorten
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. market for liraglutide (NDC 72888-0173) remains robust due to high diabetes prevalence and expanding indications.
- Current list prices hover around USD 800–850 per pen, with net prices likely 10-20% lower.
- Market growth is driven by new indications, cardiovascular benefits, and increasing patient acceptance.
- Price declines of 10-15% are probable over the next 2 years; biosimilar competition around 2026 may accelerate reductions of up to 30% or more.
- Future pricing is contingent on regulatory decisions, market entry of biosimilars, and reimbursement policies.
FAQs
Q1: When are biosimilars for liraglutide expected to enter the U.S. market?
A1: Biosimilar liraglutide approval is anticipated around 2026, pending regulatory review and patent expiry.
Q2: How does Victoza’s market share compare with newer GLP-1 therapies?
A2: Victoza maintains a significant share due to established safety and efficacy profiles, but newer agents like semaglutide are gaining preference for weight loss and cardiovascular benefits.
Q3: What factors influence the retail price of Victoza?
A3: Regulatory environment, patent status, market competition, payer negotiations, and promotional strategies.
Q4: How does inflation affect GLP-1 prices?
A4: Minimal influence; pricing remains more dependent on patent status, competition, and reimbursement policies.
Q5: Are there notable differences in dosing or administration between branded and biosimilar liraglutide?
A5: Biosimilars are expected to be similar in dosing and administration; differences may exist in device design or packaging.
References
- GoodRx. (2023). Victoza (liraglutide) prices, coupons, and savings. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com
- EvaluatePharma. (2022). Global Market Report: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists.
- IQVIA. (2022). U.S. Pharma Market Insights.
- FDA. (2022). Biologics License Application Approvals and Market Entry.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). National Diabetes Statistics Report.
