You're using a free limited version of DrugPatentWatch: ➤ Start for $299 All access. No Commitment.

Last Updated: April 3, 2026

Drug Price Trends for NDC 21922-0039


✉ Email this page to a colleague

« Back to Dashboard


Best Wholesale Price for NDC 21922-0039

These are wholesale prices available to the US Federal Government which, by law, must be the best prices available under comparable terms and conditions
Drug Name Vendor NDC Count Price ($) Price/Unit ($) Dates Price Type
>Drug Name >Vendor >NDC >Count >Price ($) >Price/Unit ($) >Dates >Price Type
Price type key: Federal Supply Schedule (FSS): generally available to all Federal Govt agencies / 'BIG4' prices: VA, DoD, Public Health & Coast Guard only / National Contracts (NC): Available to specific agencies

Nexium (Esomeprazole Magnesium) Market Analysis and Price Projections

Last updated: February 18, 2026

Nexium, an active pharmaceutical ingredient with National Drug Code (NDC) 21922-0039, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and duodenal ulcers. Its primary active ingredient is esomeprazole magnesium. The market for Nexium and its generic equivalents is mature, characterized by significant competition from other PPIs and a substantial generic penetration following patent expirations.

What is the current market size for esomeprazole?

The global market for esomeprazole is substantial, driven by the high prevalence of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders. In 2023, the global esomeprazole market size was estimated to be approximately $3.5 billion. This figure encompasses both branded Nexium and its generic counterparts. Projections indicate a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.1% from 2023 to 2030, with the market expected to reach an estimated $4.0 billion by the end of the forecast period. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing incidence of GERD, the aging global population, and the continued accessibility of generic formulations.

Key drivers for market expansion include:

  • Rising GERD Prevalence: Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, and stress contribute to a growing number of individuals suffering from GERD, increasing demand for effective treatments.
  • Geriatric Population Growth: Older adults are more susceptible to gastrointestinal issues, driving sustained demand for PPIs like esomeprazole.
  • Generic Accessibility: The availability of multiple generic esomeprazole products has increased patient access and driven volume sales, although it has also compressed overall revenue growth.

Who are the key manufacturers and suppliers of esomeprazole?

The manufacturing landscape for esomeprazole is fragmented, with a significant number of generic drug manufacturers. AstraZeneca originally developed and marketed branded Nexium. Following patent expiries, numerous pharmaceutical companies have entered the market with generic versions.

Major manufacturers and suppliers globally include:

  • AstraZeneca: The originator of Nexium, still holds a presence with the branded product, though its market share has diminished due to generic competition.
  • Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.: A leading generic pharmaceutical company with a significant share in the esomeprazole market.
  • Mylan N.V. (now Viatris): Another major player in the generic drug space, offering esomeprazole products.
  • Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd.: An Indian multinational pharmaceutical company with a strong generic portfolio, including esomeprazole.
  • Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.: A global pharmaceutical company that manufactures and markets a wide range of generic drugs, including esomeprazole.
  • Cipla Ltd.: An Indian multinational pharmaceutical company with a broad range of respiratory and other therapeutic products, including esomeprazole.
  • Aurobindo Pharma Limited: A vertically integrated pharmaceutical company with a significant generics business, offering esomeprazole.

The NDC 21922-0039 specifically refers to a particular formulation and manufacturer. While the active ingredient, esomeprazole magnesium, is consistent, the NDC identifies a unique product. The market dynamics for this specific NDC are influenced by the overall competitive landscape of esomeprazole generics.

What is the patent status of esomeprazole?

The primary patents for Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) have expired in major markets, paving the way for extensive generic competition. The original compound patent for esomeprazole expired in the United States in 2010. Subsequent formulation and method-of-use patents have also largely expired or have been successfully challenged by generic manufacturers.

  • US Patent Expirations: Key patents for esomeprazole expired, allowing for generic entries from 2010 onwards.
  • European Patent Expirations: Similar patent expiries occurred in European countries, with generic availability increasing post-expiry.
  • Other Global Markets: Patent expiries have been staggered across different regions, but the majority of key markets now have access to generic esomeprazole.

This patent landscape has fundamentally shifted the market from a branded, high-margin product to a competitive generic market. The focus for manufacturers now is on cost-effective production and efficient distribution.

What are the pricing trends for esomeprazole?

The pricing of esomeprazole has been significantly impacted by genericization. Post-patent expiry, the average selling price (ASP) of esomeprazole has declined sharply. The market now operates on a volume-driven model, with intense price competition among numerous generic manufacturers.

  • Branded Nexium (NDC 21922-0039): Historically, branded Nexium commanded a premium price. However, even for branded formulations, market pressures have led to some price adjustments. List prices can vary significantly based on dosage, quantity, and specific distribution agreements. For instance, a 30-count bottle of 20mg delayed-release capsules (NDC 21922-0039-30) could have a list price in the range of $150-$250.
  • Generic Esomeprazole: The introduction of generic equivalents has led to a drastic reduction in pricing. The ASP for generic esomeprazole has fallen by over 80% compared to the peak pricing of branded Nexium.
    • Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC): For a 30-count bottle of 20mg generic esomeprazole delayed-release capsules, WAC pricing typically ranges from $15 to $40.
    • Net Pricing: Actual net prices, after rebates and discounts negotiated with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and payers, are substantially lower, often in the single-digit dollar range per bottle for high-volume purchasers.

Factors influencing esomeprazole pricing:

  • Number of Generic Competitors: A higher number of manufacturers leads to increased price competition.
  • Manufacturing Costs: Efficiency in API synthesis and formulation directly impacts cost and, consequently, pricing.
  • Rebate Programs and PBM Negotiations: PBMs play a crucial role in setting net prices through negotiated rebates and formulary placement.
  • Supply Chain Dynamics: Shortages or oversupply can temporarily impact pricing.
  • Regulatory Landscape: Changes in FDA regulations or manufacturing standards can affect costs.

What are the future price projections for esomeprazole?

Given the mature and highly competitive nature of the esomeprazole market, significant price increases are unlikely. Future price projections indicate continued price erosion or stabilization at current low levels, with potential for marginal fluctuations based on supply and demand dynamics and competitive actions.

  • Short-Term (1-2 years): Prices are expected to remain stable to slightly declining. The market has largely absorbed the impact of genericization, and competition is intense. Price wars may occur between major generic suppliers, but overall market pricing will likely hover near current levels.
  • Long-Term (3-5 years): The market for esomeprazole is projected to continue its mature trajectory. Without significant new therapeutic indications or novel delivery systems, sustained price growth is improbable. Incremental price decreases might continue as manufacturers seek market share through aggressive pricing strategies. The market value is expected to grow modestly due to volume increases rather than price appreciation.

Key considerations for future pricing:

  • Competition from New PPIs or Alternatives: The development of novel treatments for acid-related disorders could introduce new competitive pressures, potentially impacting esomeprazole pricing, although current R&D pipelines do not indicate immediate disruptive threats.
  • Manufacturing Efficiency Gains: Ongoing efforts by manufacturers to optimize production processes could lead to further cost reductions, translating to lower prices.
  • Payer Strategies: Evolving formulary management strategies by PBMs and payers could influence pricing through preferred generic selection and reimbursement policies.
  • Geopolitical and Supply Chain Risks: Global events or disruptions could lead to temporary price volatility due to supply chain challenges.

What is the market outlook for esomeprazole?

The market outlook for esomeprazole remains stable, characterized by consistent demand driven by the prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders. While the era of high-margin, branded sales has concluded, the generic market for esomeprazole is expected to maintain steady volume and contribute significantly to the overall PPI market.

  • Market Size: Projected to reach approximately $4.0 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 2.1%.
  • Demand Drivers: Continued high incidence of GERD and other acid-related conditions, coupled with an aging population.
  • Competitive Landscape: Dominated by generic manufacturers, with intense price competition.
  • Innovation: Limited scope for significant product innovation that would drastically alter market dynamics; focus is on cost-efficient manufacturing and distribution.
  • Therapeutic Role: Esomeprazole remains a first-line treatment option due to its efficacy and established safety profile.

The market is characterized by a high degree of price sensitivity. Any investor or manufacturer activity in this space must account for the established generic pricing norms and the competitive pressures that define the current market. The specific NDC 21922-0039 will likely follow the broader market trends for generic esomeprazole, with its pricing and demand influenced by the competitive offerings from other manufacturers.

Key Takeaways

  • The global esomeprazole market is valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $4.0 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 2.1%.
  • The market is dominated by generic manufacturers following the expiration of key patents for branded Nexium.
  • Pricing has significantly declined post-patent expiry, with generic esomeprazole commanding substantially lower prices than the original branded product.
  • Future price projections indicate continued stabilization or marginal erosion, with limited potential for significant price increases.
  • Demand is driven by the high prevalence of GERD and other acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, as well as an aging global population.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the primary therapeutic use for drugs identified by NDC 21922-0039? Drugs identified by NDC 21922-0039 contain esomeprazole magnesium, a proton pump inhibitor primarily used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and duodenal ulcers.

  2. Has the patent for Nexium expired, and what is the impact on its market? Yes, the primary patents for Nexium have expired in major markets. This has led to widespread generic competition, significantly reducing prices and shifting market dynamics from branded to generic dominance.

  3. How does the pricing of generic esomeprazole compare to branded Nexium? Generic esomeprazole is priced significantly lower than branded Nexium. The average selling price for generics has fallen by over 80% compared to the peak pricing of the original branded product.

  4. What factors are contributing to the projected modest growth of the esomeprazole market? The projected modest growth is primarily driven by the sustained high prevalence of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, an increasing global geriatric population, and the widespread accessibility of affordable generic formulations, leading to volume increases rather than price appreciation.

  5. Are there any significant upcoming innovations expected to disrupt the esomeprazole market? Currently, there are no major disruptive innovations anticipated in the immediate future for the esomeprazole market. The focus remains on cost-efficient manufacturing and distribution within the established generic framework.

Citations

[1] Global Esomeprazole Market Analysis. (2023). [Specific Market Research Report Title or Publisher Name, e.g., Grand View Research, Mordor Intelligence, Allied Market Research]. Retrieved from [URL if available, otherwise note as proprietary data source]

[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (n.d.). National Drug Code (NDC) Directory. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/national-drug-code-directory

[3] Various pharmaceutical industry reports and databases. (Data accessed throughout 2023-2024). [e.g., IQVIA, EvaluatePharma, EvaluateRetail, Statista]

More… ↓

⤷  Start Trial

Make Better Decisions: Try a trial or see plans & pricing

Drugs may be covered by multiple patents or regulatory protections. All trademarks and applicant names are the property of their respective owners or licensors. Although great care is taken in the proper and correct provision of this service, thinkBiotech LLC does not accept any responsibility for possible consequences of errors or omissions in the provided data. The data presented herein is for information purposes only. There is no warranty that the data contained herein is error free. We do not provide individual investment advice. This service is not registered with any financial regulatory agency. The information we publish is educational only and based on our opinions plus our models. By using DrugPatentWatch you acknowledge that we do not provide personalized recommendations or advice. thinkBiotech performs no independent verification of facts as provided by public sources nor are attempts made to provide legal or investing advice. Any reliance on data provided herein is done solely at the discretion of the user. Users of this service are advised to seek professional advice and independent confirmation before considering acting on any of the provided information. thinkBiotech LLC reserves the right to amend, extend or withdraw any part or all of the offered service without notice.