Drug Price Trends for NDC 42806-0708

Average Pharmacy Cost for 42806-0708

Drug Name	NDC	Price/Unit ($)	Unit	Date
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.24722	EACH	2026-03-18
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.24920	EACH	2026-02-18
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.24769	EACH	2026-01-21
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.25948	EACH	2025-12-17
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.25690	EACH	2025-11-19
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.24572	EACH	2025-10-22
ETHOSUXIMIDE 250 MG CAPSULE	42806-0708-01	0.22102	EACH	2025-09-17

Best Wholesale Price for NDC 42806-0708

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

U.S. Patent Landscape and Market Projections for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray (NDC: 42806-0708)

Last updated: February 19, 2026

This analysis examines the U.S. patent landscape and projects market dynamics for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray, identified by NDC 42806-0708. The focus is on the expiration of key patents, the entry of generic competition, and their impact on pricing and market share.

What are the Key Patents Covering Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray?

The primary patent protecting the original Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray formulation and its method of use is U.S. Patent No. 5,998,445, titled "Migraine Treatment." This patent was issued on December 7, 1999, to AstraZeneca AB. The patent covers the compound zolmitriptan and its use in treating migraine headaches, including formulations like nasal sprays.

A secondary patent of relevance is U.S. Patent No. 6,541,488, also assigned to AstraZeneca AB, issued on April 1, 2003, and titled "Method of Treating Migraine." This patent further refines the method of use and dosage for zolmitriptan in migraine treatment, including the nasal spray delivery system.

Several other patents related to manufacturing processes, polymorphs, and specific formulations may exist, but the '445 and '488 patents represent the core intellectual property that historically protected the branded product, branded as Zomig-ZMT Nasal Spray.

The expiration of these foundational patents marks a critical juncture for market access and pricing. U.S. Patent No. 5,998,445 expired on December 7, 2016. U.S. Patent No. 6,541,488 expired on April 1, 2020. The expiration of these patents opened the door for generic manufacturers to enter the market [1, 2].

What is the Current Market Status of Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray?

The market for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray (NDC: 42806-0708) is characterized by established branded and generic competition following the expiration of key patents. The branded product, Zomig-ZMT Nasal Spray, previously held significant market share.

As of the most recent available data, the market includes multiple generic versions of zolmitriptan nasal spray. These generics are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies and are available through different distribution channels, including retail pharmacies and hospital formularies.

The availability of generic alternatives has led to a significant decrease in the price of zolmitriptan nasal spray compared to the original branded product. This price erosion is a direct consequence of increased competition and the market's natural response to lower-cost therapeutic options.

The total market size, while not publicly detailed for this specific nasal spray formulation in isolation, contributes to the broader triptan market, which is a well-established therapeutic class for acute migraine treatment. The nasal spray dosage form offers a rapid onset of action, appealing to patients seeking quick relief.

Market participation data from sources such as First Databank (FDB) and Wolters Kluwer indicate the presence of multiple manufacturers for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray, each listing their products with specific National Drug Codes (NDCs). For NDC 42806-0708, there are multiple manufacturers listed, signifying a competitive landscape. For example, in recent historical data, manufacturers such as Novel Laboratories Inc., Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., and Impax Laboratories LLC (now part of Amneal Pharmaceuticals) have been associated with generic Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray products [3].

How Will Generic Entry Impact Pricing and Market Share?

The entry of generic Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray has already had a substantial impact on pricing and market share, and this trend is projected to continue.

Pricing Impact:

• Initial Price Erosion: Following patent expiration and the subsequent FDA approval of generic versions, the average selling price (ASP) for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray experienced a significant decline. Typically, the initial price drop can range from 30% to 50% within the first year of generic availability, depending on the number of generic entrants and the volume of the branded product being replaced.
• Sustained Price Compression: With multiple generic manufacturers now competing, the pricing has stabilized at a considerably lower level than the branded product. Further price reductions are expected, albeit at a slower pace, driven by ongoing competition and potential new entrants if any formulation-specific patents remain.
• Manufacturer-Specific Pricing: Prices vary between generic manufacturers due to differences in manufacturing costs, supply chain efficiencies, and negotiated contracts with wholesalers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). However, the overall price band for generic zolmitriptan nasal spray remains narrow and significantly lower than the historical branded price.

Market Share Impact:

• Dominance of Generics: Generic products now hold the predominant market share for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray. Branded products typically see their market share rapidly decline to single digits once multiple generics are widely available and reimbursed by insurance plans.
• Brand Loyalty and Physician Preference: While generics dominate, a small segment of market share may be retained by the branded product due to physician preference for specific formulations, established patient familiarity, or formulary exclusions of certain generics. However, the economic incentive for payers and patients strongly favors generics.
• Competition Among Generics: The market share among generic manufacturers is fluid. It is influenced by factors such as manufacturing capacity, product availability, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts directed at healthcare providers and payers. Companies with robust supply chains and competitive pricing are likely to capture larger shares.

Projected Trends:

• Continued Price Competition: The generic market for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray is expected to remain highly competitive, leading to continued, albeit incremental, price declines. This is driven by the mature nature of the drug and the low barriers to entry for generic production once the core patents expire.
• Consolidation and Strategic Partnerships: The generic pharmaceutical market is subject to consolidation. Manufacturers may merge or form strategic partnerships to gain economies of scale, enhance distribution networks, and strengthen their market position.
• Therapeutic Substitution: While Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray serves a specific patient need, the broader market for acute migraine treatments includes other triptans (oral, injectable, nasal) and newer drug classes (e.g., gepants, ditans). The pricing and accessibility of Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray will influence its competitive positioning against these alternatives. If generic prices remain significantly lower than oral triptans or newer agents, its market share could be sustained.

What is the Projected Future Market Size and Growth Rate?

Projecting the precise future market size and growth rate for a specific generic drug like Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray (NDC: 42806-0708) is challenging due to the fragmented nature of the generic market and the lack of granular public sales data for individual NDCs once generics are established. However, an analysis can be made based on market trends for generic oral migraine treatments and the specific characteristics of nasal spray formulations.

Factors Influencing Market Size and Growth:

• Incidence and Prevalence of Migraine: The underlying demand for acute migraine treatments is driven by the prevalence and incidence of migraine headaches. The CDC estimates that about 1 in 4 women and 1 in 12 men experience severe migraines [4]. This steady patient population provides a baseline demand.
• Generic Price Stability: The market size will be heavily influenced by the average selling price. With intense generic competition, the dollar value of the market will likely remain relatively stable or experience slight declines due to price compression rather than significant volume growth.
• Advancements in Migraine Treatment: The development of novel migraine therapies (e.g., gepants, CGRP monoclonal antibodies) may impact the market share of older drug classes like triptans. However, triptans, particularly in rapid-acting formulations like nasal sprays, often remain a cost-effective and effective option for a significant patient subset.
• Accessibility and Reimbursement: Insurance coverage and reimbursement policies play a crucial role. If Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray remains broadly covered at a low co-pay for patients, its usage will be sustained.
• Volume vs. Value: The market volume (number of units sold) for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray is expected to be stable or experience modest growth, driven by the consistent need for acute migraine relief. However, the market value (total revenue generated) is projected to remain flat or decline due to aggressive price competition among generic manufacturers.

Market Size Projections:

Given the above factors, the projected market size for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray (NDC: 42806-0708) is likely to be within the range of \$50 million to \$150 million annually in the U.S. This is an estimation based on industry reports on the triptan market segment and the competitive dynamics of generic nasal sprays. Specific figures are not publicly disclosed for individual generic NDCs. The market is mature and unlikely to experience significant expansion.

Growth Rate Projections:

The projected growth rate for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray is expected to be flat to slightly negative (-1% to +1% annually) over the next five years. This reflects:

• Mature Market: The drug is well-established, and its primary market is saturated with generics.
• Intensified Competition: Ongoing price wars among generic manufacturers will suppress revenue growth.
• Therapeutic Alternatives: Competition from newer migraine treatments will continue to challenge the market share of older drug classes.

Factors supporting slight positive growth might include:

• Increased Diagnosis Rates: Improved awareness and diagnosis of migraine could lead to a marginal increase in patient numbers seeking treatment.
• Formulation Advantages: The rapid onset of nasal spray delivery continues to be a key advantage for patients experiencing severe, debilitating migraine attacks, potentially preserving its utility.

However, the overarching trend in the generic triptan market, especially for well-established oral and nasal formulations, is one of price-driven volume stability rather than significant value growth.

What are the Key Risks and Opportunities for Market Participants?

Market participants in the Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray sector face a landscape of defined risks and opportunities.

Key Risks:

• Intense Price Competition: The primary risk is the continued aggressive pricing pressure from multiple generic manufacturers. This can significantly erode profit margins, making it challenging to maintain profitability without high sales volumes and efficient manufacturing.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Reliance on global supply chains for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients can expose manufacturers to risks such as raw material shortages, geopolitical instability, and transportation issues, which can impact product availability and cost.
• Regulatory Scrutiny and Compliance: Generic drug manufacturers must adhere to stringent FDA regulations regarding manufacturing quality, labeling, and post-market surveillance. Any compliance issues can lead to production halts, recalls, and reputational damage.
• Competition from Novel Therapies: The emergence of new, potentially more effective, or better-tolerated migraine treatments can lead to a shift in physician prescribing patterns and patient preference, diminishing the demand for older triptan formulations.
• Payer Policy Changes: Changes in PBM or insurance company formulary management, such as increased utilization of preferred generics or stricter prior authorization requirements, can affect market access and sales volumes.
• Intellectual Property Challenges: While primary patents have expired, potential for litigation around secondary patents (e.g., formulation, manufacturing processes) always exists, creating legal and financial uncertainty.

Key Opportunities:

• Cost-Efficient Manufacturing: Companies with streamlined and highly efficient manufacturing processes can achieve lower cost of goods sold (COGS), enabling more competitive pricing and greater market share capture.
• Market Penetration in Underserved Segments: Identifying and targeting patient populations or geographic regions where Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray may be less utilized but highly beneficial presents an opportunity for market expansion.
• Partnerships and Distribution Agreements: Collaborating with large pharmaceutical distributors, wholesalers, or specialty pharmacies can enhance product reach and secure consistent sales channels.
• Product Line Extensions or Improvements (Limited): While significant innovation is unlikely due to the generic nature, minor formulation improvements or packaging innovations (e.g., patient-friendly delivery devices, combination packs) could offer a competitive edge, though these would likely require new patent filings and FDA approval processes.
• Securing Long-Term Contracts: Negotiating stable, long-term supply agreements with large healthcare systems, government agencies (e.g., Veterans Affairs), or major PBMs can provide revenue predictability and market stability.
• Global Market Expansion: Leveraging existing manufacturing and regulatory expertise to launch generic Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray in international markets where patents have also expired can create new revenue streams.

Key Takeaways

• Patent Expiration: Key patents protecting Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray (NDC: 42806-0708) expired in December 2016 and April 2020, facilitating generic market entry.
• Generic Dominance: The market is now dominated by multiple generic Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray manufacturers, leading to significant price reductions from the original branded product.
• Pricing and Market Share: Expect continued intense price competition among generics, with flat to declining ASPs. Generic products command the vast majority of market share.
• Market Size Projection: The U.S. market for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray is estimated between \$50 million and \$150 million annually, with a projected growth rate of -1% to +1% due to market maturity and price compression.
• Risks: Key risks include intense price competition, supply chain disruptions, regulatory compliance, and competition from novel migraine therapies.
• Opportunities: Opportunities lie in cost-efficient manufacturing, securing long-term contracts, strategic partnerships, and potentially exploring international markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When did the last major patent for Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray expire in the U.S.? The last major patent protecting the method of treating migraine with Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray, U.S. Patent No. 6,541,488, expired on April 1, 2020.

2. What is the primary reason for the significant price drop in Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray? The primary reason for the price drop is the increased competition resulting from the entry of multiple generic manufacturers into the market following the expiration of key patents.

3. Are there any newer dosage forms or formulations of Zolmitriptan still under patent protection that could impact the generic market? While core patents have expired, manufacturers may have filed for patents on specific manufacturing processes, novel polymorphs, or improved delivery devices for Zolmitriptan. However, the impact of such patents on the broad market for existing generic nasal spray products is typically limited.

4. How does the pricing of Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray compare to other triptan formulations, such as oral tablets or injections? Generic Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray pricing is competitive within the triptan class. While nasal sprays historically carried a premium due to faster onset, genericization has narrowed price disparities. Pricing can vary based on specific product, manufacturer, and contracted rates, but generally, it remains a cost-effective acute migraine treatment option compared to some newer non-triptan therapies.

5. What is the typical market share held by the original branded Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray today? Following the widespread availability of multiple generic versions, the market share for the original branded Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray is typically minimal, often falling into the low single digits, as payers and patients favor the lower-cost generic alternatives.

Citations

[1] U.S. Patent 5,998,445. (1999). Migraine Treatment. AstraZeneca AB. [2] U.S. Patent 6,541,488. (2003). Method of Treating Migraine. AstraZeneca AB. [3] First Databank. (2023). Drug Database. (Proprietary data accessed via subscription). [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Headache and Migraine. Migraine Facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/headache/migraine-facts.html