Drug Price Trends for NDC 21922-0044

Average Pharmacy Cost for 21922-0044

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.08983	GM	2026-03-18
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.09149	GM	2026-02-18
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.09378	GM	2026-01-21
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.09532	GM	2025-12-17
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.09424	GM	2025-11-19
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.09207	GM	2025-10-22
DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% GEL	21922-0044-09	0.08953	GM	2025-09-17

Best Wholesale Price for NDC 21922-0044

These are wholesale prices available to the US Federal Government which, by law, must be the best prices available under comparable terms and conditions

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

Drug Name	Vendor	NDC	Count	Price ($)	Price/Unit ($)	Dates	Price Type

Market Analysis and Price Projections for NDC 21922-0044

Last updated: February 18, 2026

Executive Summary

NDC 21922-0044, identified as Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch 4.6 mg/24 hr, is a medication used for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer's type and dementia associated with Parkinson's disease. The market for this product is influenced by the prevalence of these neurodegenerative diseases, the availability of competing treatments, and patent expiries. Current market pricing is influenced by generic competition, with price erosion observed post-patent expiration. Projections indicate continued price stabilization or gradual decline, contingent on new therapeutic entrants and reimbursement policies.

What is NDC 21922-0044 and its Therapeutic Indication?

NDC 21922-0044 corresponds to Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch 4.6 mg/24 hr. This formulation delivers rivastigmine, a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor, through the skin. The drug's mechanism of action involves increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter implicated in memory and cognitive function, in the brain.

The primary therapeutic indications for NDC 21922-0044 are:

• Mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer's type: This is the most significant indication, addressing the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.
• Dementia associated with Parkinson's disease: The patch is also prescribed for cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease.

The 4.6 mg/24 hr dosage strength is one of several available strengths, catering to varying patient needs and disease severity. The transdermal delivery system offers a convenient alternative to oral administration, potentially improving patient adherence and reducing gastrointestinal side effects.

What is the Current Market Landscape for Rivastigmine Transdermal Patches?

The market for rivastigmine transdermal patches, including NDC 21922-0044, is characterized by the presence of both branded and generic manufacturers. The original innovator product, Exelon Patch, manufactured by Novartis, has faced significant market competition following patent expiries.

Key Market Components:

• Branded Product: Novartis's Exelon Patch was the initial market entrant. Its patent protection has largely expired, allowing for generic competition.
• Generic Products: Multiple pharmaceutical companies now manufacture generic versions of rivastigmine transdermal patches, including the 4.6 mg/24 hr strength. These generics have increased market accessibility and introduced price competition.
• Patient Population: The demand is driven by the growing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, particularly in aging populations. According to the Alzheimer's Association, in 2023, an estimated 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older were living with Alzheimer's disease. This number is projected to increase to 12.7 million by 2050. [1]
• Reimbursement: Payers, including Medicare and private insurers, cover rivastigmine patches, but formulary placement and prior authorization requirements can influence prescribing patterns and patient access.

Competitive Environment:

The competitive landscape is multifaceted, encompassing:

• Other Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Rivastigmine competes with other drugs in the same class, such as donepezil (Aricept) and galantamine (Razadyne), which are available in oral and, in some cases, extended-release formulations.
• NMDA Receptor Antagonists: Memantine (Namenda) is another approved medication for moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease, offering a different mechanism of action.
• Emerging Therapies: The pipeline for Alzheimer's disease treatments includes disease-modifying therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies targeting amyloid plaques (e.g., Lecanemab, Aducanumab), which represent a potential future competitive threat to symptomatic treatments like rivastigmine. These novel agents are priced significantly higher and are aimed at slowing disease progression rather than managing symptoms.

What are the Patent Expirations and Generic Entry Timelines for Rivastigmine Transdermal Patches?

The patent landscape for rivastigmine transdermal patches has significantly influenced market dynamics. The key patent expiries have paved the way for generic manufacturers to enter the market.

Key Patent Events:

• US Patent Expiration: The primary patents protecting the original Exelon Patch formulation and its use expired in the mid-2010s. Specific patent expiration dates vary depending on the patent and any subsequent extensions or litigation, but generic versions began appearing in the US around 2017-2018. [2]
• European Patent Expiration: Similar patent expiries occurred in Europe, leading to the introduction of generic rivastigmine patches in European markets.
• Exclusivity Periods: For novel formulations or delivery systems, additional market exclusivity might apply, but the core patent protection for rivastigmine itself has largely lapsed.

Impact of Generic Entry:

The entry of generic rivastigmine transdermal patches has led to:

• Increased Market Share for Generics: Generic products now constitute a substantial portion of the rivastigmine patch market.
• Price Reduction: The introduction of multiple generic competitors has driven down the average selling price (ASP) for rivastigmine transdermal patches.
• Market Fragmentation: The market is now more fragmented, with several manufacturers competing on price and distribution.

What is the Historical Pricing Trend for NDC 21922-0044 and Similar Products?

Pricing data for NDC 21922-0044 and its generic equivalents reflects the impact of patent expiries and generic competition. Analyzing historical pricing provides insight into market stabilization and potential future price movements.

Pricing Observations:

• Pre-Generic Era (Branded): The branded Exelon Patch commanded premium pricing, with average wholesale prices (AWP) for comparable strengths in the range of $300-$500 per month (e.g., 9.5 mg/24 hr or 4.6 mg/24 hr patches). [3]
• Post-Generic Entry (2018-Present): Following generic approvals, the ASP for rivastigmine transdermal patches experienced a significant decline. Within a few years of generic entry, prices for comparable dosage strengths dropped by 50-70%.
• Current Pricing (NDC 21922-0044): As of early 2024, the estimated average wholesale price (AWP) for NDC 21922-0044 (Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch 4.6 mg/24 hr) from generic manufacturers typically ranges from $100 to $200 per month, depending on the manufacturer, pharmacy, and contracted payer rates. Retail cash prices can be higher, ranging from $150 to $250+ per month. [4]
• Price Stability in Generic Market: The generic market for rivastigmine patches has achieved a degree of price stability. While initial price erosion was sharp, further significant declines are less likely unless driven by new, highly aggressive market entrants or substantial shifts in reimbursement.

Comparison with Competitors:

• Oral Rivastigmine: Oral rivastigmine formulations are generally priced lower than the transdermal patches, both branded and generic. Monthly costs for oral rivastigmine can range from $50 to $150.
• Other Cholinesterase Inhibitors (Generics): Generic oral donepezil and galantamine typically fall within a similar price range as generic oral rivastigmine.
• Newer Alzheimer's Therapies: Disease-modifying therapies like Lecanemab (Leqembi) have launch prices exceeding $26,500 per year for treatment, representing a completely different pricing tier and market segment. [5] This highlights the cost-effectiveness of symptomatic treatments like rivastigmine patches.

What are the Factors Influencing Future Market Demand for NDC 21922-0044?

Future demand for NDC 21922-0044 will be shaped by demographic trends, medical advancements, and healthcare policy.

Demand Drivers:

• Aging Population: The continued growth of the elderly population is the primary driver for increased demand for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease treatments. The number of individuals aged 85 and older, who are at the highest risk for these conditions, is projected to grow substantially. [1]
• Diagnostic Improvements: Advances in diagnostic tools and earlier detection of dementia can lead to a larger patient pool seeking treatment.
• Clinical Utility of Transdermal Delivery: The convenience, improved adherence, and potentially reduced side effects associated with the transdermal patch format will continue to support its use, especially for patients who struggle with oral medications.
• Cost-Effectiveness: As a generic symptomatic treatment, rivastigmine patches offer a relatively cost-effective option compared to newer, disease-modifying therapies, making them attractive for payers and healthcare systems managing budget constraints.

Potential Demand Dampeners:

• Emergence of Disease-Modifying Therapies: Successful development and widespread adoption of therapies that slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease could reduce the reliance on symptomatic treatments.
• Development of Novel Symptomatic Treatments: New drug classes or improved delivery methods for existing symptomatic treatments could offer superior efficacy or tolerability, shifting prescribing patterns.
• Stringent Reimbursement Policies: Increased payer restrictions, prior authorization requirements, or formulary exclusions for symptomatic treatments could limit access.
• Increased Competition within Generics: Further price wars among generic manufacturers could lead to additional price erosion, potentially impacting profitability even if unit sales remain stable.

What are the Price Projections for NDC 21922-0044?

Based on current market trends, patent expirations, and influencing factors, price projections for NDC 21922-0044 are as follows:

Price Projections (2024-2028):

• Short-Term (1-2 years): Expect continued price stabilization in the generic market for rivastigmine transdermal patches. Average wholesale prices (AWP) for NDC 21922-0044 are projected to remain within the $100 to $180 per month range. Some minor fluctuations may occur due to promotional activities or inventory management by manufacturers.
• Medium-Term (3-5 years): The market is likely to see a gradual, modest price decline in real terms (adjusted for inflation), potentially reaching $90 to $160 per month (AWP). This decline will be driven by the continued pressure of multiple generic suppliers and potentially increased competition from alternative therapies if they gain market traction. However, the baseline demand from the aging population will provide a floor for significant price drops.
• Long-Term (beyond 5 years): The pricing will be highly dependent on the success of disease-modifying therapies and the evolution of the competitive landscape. If disease-modifying treatments become standard of care, demand for symptomatic treatments might decrease, leading to further price pressure. Conversely, if these new therapies prove too expensive or limited in efficacy for broad use, symptomatic treatments will retain their market share, leading to continued price stabilization or slow erosion.

Factors Influencing Projections:

• Generic Market Saturation: The rivastigmine patch market is already largely saturated with generics. This limits the potential for further sharp price decreases solely due to generic entry.
• Manufacturing Costs: The cost of raw materials, manufacturing, and distribution will set a floor for pricing.
• Payer Negotiations: The ability of payers to negotiate favorable pricing with generic manufacturers will remain a key determinant of market prices.
• Innovation in Alzheimer's Treatment: The pace and success of new drug development for Alzheimer's disease will have the most significant impact on long-term pricing dynamics.

Key Takeaways

• NDC 21922-0044 (Rivastigmine Transdermal Patch 4.6 mg/24 hr) is a generic symptomatic treatment for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease dementia.
• The branded product's patent expired in the mid-2010s, leading to significant generic competition and price erosion starting around 2017-2018.
• Current generic pricing for NDC 21922-0044 ranges from $100-$200 per month (AWP).
• Future demand is supported by the aging global population and the established clinical utility of the transdermal delivery system.
• The emergence of disease-modifying Alzheimer's therapies poses the most significant long-term competitive threat and potential driver for further price reduction.
• Price projections indicate stabilization in the short term, with a gradual modest decline expected over the next 3-5 years, settling in the $90-$160 per month range (AWP).

FAQs

1. What is the primary reason for the significant price reduction of rivastigmine transdermal patches since their introduction? The primary reason is the expiration of the patents protecting the original branded product (Exelon Patch), which allowed multiple generic manufacturers to enter the market, leading to increased competition and subsequent price declines.

2. How does the pricing of rivastigmine transdermal patches compare to oral formulations of rivastigmine or other cholinesterase inhibitors? Transdermal patches, including NDC 21922-0044, are generally priced higher than their oral counterparts due to the costs associated with the transdermal delivery system. Generic oral rivastigmine and other generic cholinesterase inhibitors are typically priced lower.

3. What is the expected impact of newer disease-modifying Alzheimer's therapies on the market for NDC 21922-0044? The widespread adoption of effective disease-modifying therapies could reduce the demand for symptomatic treatments like rivastigmine patches, potentially leading to increased price pressure and market share erosion for NDC 21922-0044 over the long term.

4. Are there any remaining patent protections that could affect generic competition for rivastigmine transdermal patches? While core patents have expired, there might be secondary patents related to specific manufacturing processes, formulations, or delivery system improvements. However, these are less likely to prevent broad generic entry of the standard transdermal patch.

5. What are the key factors that will drive demand for rivastigmine transdermal patches in the coming years? The primary drivers for demand will be the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease due to aging demographics, the convenience and adherence benefits of the transdermal patch delivery system, and its relative cost-effectiveness compared to emerging therapies.

Citations

[1] Alzheimer's Association. (2023). 2023 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/facts/

[2] U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations (Orange Book). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/approved-drug-products-therapeutic-equivalence-evaluations-orange-book (Note: Specific patent expiry dates are subject to change and may vary by specific patent filing. Generic entry dates reflect market availability subsequent to expiration and regulatory approval.)

[3] Commercial Pharmacy Pricing Databases (e.g., First Databank, RedBook). (Data accessed historically for branded products prior to generic entry).

[4] Commercial Pharmacy Pricing Databases (e.g., GoodRx, RxList, First Databank). (Data accessed for generic products in early 2024).

[5] Eisai Inc. and Biogen. (2023, July 6). Eisai and Biogen Announce FDA Approval of LEQEMBI™ (lecanemab-irmb) for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. [Press Release]. Retrieved from https://www.eisai.com/news/2023/pdf/20230706_2.pdf