Last updated: March 5, 2026
What is NDC 27241-0242?
This National Drug Code (NDC) corresponds to a specific drug product. Based on public FDA databases, NDC 27241-0242 is identified as Filgrastim (Zarxio), a biosimilar to Neupogen used to stimulate white blood cell production in patients undergoing chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation.
Market Overview
Current Market Size
- Global Biosimilar Market (Filgrastim Segment): Valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2022.
- US Filgrastim Market (Including Biosimilars): Estimated at USD 700 million in 2022.
- Key Players: Amgen (original Neupogen), Sandoz, Apotex, and others produce biosimilar versions.
Market Drivers
- Increased chemotherapy treatments.
- Regulatory approval acceptance for biosimilars.
- Cost savings from biosimilar adoption. Biosimilars typically reduce costs by 15-30% compared to originators.
- Policy shifts favoring biosimilar substitution, including mandates by CMS and private insurers.
Market Challenges
- Limited interchangeability status.
- Physician and patient preferences.
- Patent litigations delaying biosimilar entry in some regions.
Regulatory Status
- Approved by FDA in 2018 as Zarxio (Sandoz).
- Approved in multiple territories, including Europe and Japan.
- Patent expiration for Neupogen in 2023-2024 provides opportunities for biosimilar competition.
Price Projections
Current Pricing
| Region |
Average Wholesale Price (AWP) per 100 mcg |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
| US |
USD 200-250 |
USD 200-250 per dose |
| Europe |
EUR 150-180 |
EUR 150-180 per dose |
Note: Biosimilars like Zarxio typically retail at 20-30% lower than innovator prices.
Near-Term Price Trends (Next 3-5 years)
- Slight price reductions as biosimilar market penetration increases and manufacturing costs decline.
- Estimated average price decrease: 10-15% for biosimilars globally.
- In the US, prices may stabilize or slightly decline due to payer negotiations and formulary prioritization.
Long-Term Price Outlook (Next 5-10 years)
- Further price compression as biosimilar market expands.
- Potential price parity with the originator after patent expiry.
- Price projections suggest biosimilar Filgrastim could reach USD 150-180 per 100 mcg dose by 2030.
Competitive Dynamics
- Entry of multiple biosimilars could erode price margins.
- Payer incentives for switching to lower-cost versions could accelerate price drops.
- Manufacturer efforts to differentiate (e.g., through delivery devices or formulations) may hinder uniform price declines.
Market Penetration Forecasts
| Year |
Estimated Biosimilar Market Share |
Notes |
| 2022 |
15% |
Early adoption, limited payer incentives |
| 2025 |
40% |
Increased formulary inclusion, price competitiveness |
| 2030 |
70% |
Wide adoption driven by cost savings |
Key Considerations for Stakeholders
- Pharmaceutical companies should monitor patent expirations and biosimilar approval timelines.
- Payers and providers are increasingly favoring biosimilars for cost savings.
- Investors should watch biosimilar market entrants and price erosion trends.
Summary of Price Drivers
| Factor |
Effect on Price |
| Patent expiration |
Price reduction due to generic entry |
| Regulatory approval |
Enables market entry, increasing competition |
| Manufacturing efficiency |
Lowers production costs, enabling price cuts |
| Payer policies |
Influence market share, impact pricing strategies |
Key Takeaways
- NDC 27241-0242 (Zarxio) is a biosimilar Filgrastim linked to growing demand for cost-effective treatments.
- Market size in North America and Europe is expanding, projected to reach USD 2 billion globally by 2030.
- Prices are expected to decline steadily, reaching approximately USD 150-180 per 100 mcg dose within 8 years.
- Market share growth depends on regulatory clearance, payer acceptance, and competitive dynamics.
- Patent expiries for original drugs in 2023-2024 influence biosimilar entry and pricing trends.
FAQs
1. When will biosimilar Filgrastim become more widely adopted?
Market adoption is projected to accelerate from 2025 onward, reaching over 40% market share by then.
2. How much will prices decline for biosimilar Filgrastim?
Prices are expected to decrease by 10-15% over the next 3-5 years and approach parity with the originator by 2030.
3. What regions present the most growth opportunities?
The US, Europe, and Japan are primary markets for biosimilar Filgrastim, with emerging markets also expanding.
4. Are there regulatory barriers affecting biosimilar entry?
Yes. Approvals are contingent on demonstrating biosimilarity and interchangeability, with some regions requiring additional data for substitution.
5. Which companies are leading in biosimilar Filgrastim production?
Sandoz (Zarxio), Samsung Bioepis, and Biocon are among the top contenders in biosimilar Filgrastim.
References
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2022). Approved Biosimilar Products.
- IQVIA. (2022). World Review: Pharma & Biotech Market 2022.
- EvaluatePharma. (2022). Top 100 Pharma Sales and Market Projections.
- GSK. (2021). Biosimilar Report.
- European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2022). Biosimilar Medicines.
