Last updated: February 15, 2026
Product Overview
NDC 51407-0286 is identified as Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (SR) Tablets, marketed primarily under the brand name Wellbutrin SR. It is used for treating major depressive disorder and smoking cessation. The product has been genericized, resulting in increased market competition.
Market Landscape
- Market Size (U.S.): The anti-depressant market, including bupropion formulations, was valued approximately at $12 billion in 2022, with drugs like Wellbutrin SR accounting for a significant share.[1]
- Key Competitors: Branded Wellbutrin SR (GlaxoSmithKline), generic versions from multiple manufacturers. Competition has driven prices downward since patent expirations, notably after the patent cliff in 2017.
- Regulatory Status: The original patent expired in 2017, leading to multiple generics entering the market. The absence of recent patent protections constrains pricing power.
Current Pricing and Cost Trends
- Average Wholesale Price (AWP): For a 30-day supply (once daily, 100 mg tablets), the AWP is approximately $35-$45.
- Institutional Costs: Wholesale acquisition costs (WAC) are typically 10-20% lower than AWP.
- Generic Market Price Range: Retail pharmacies predominantly sell generic bupropion SR 100 mg around $10–$15 per month, indicating substantial discounting compared to branded versions.
Market Drivers
- Increased Adoption: Growing prevalence of depression and smoking cessation efforts sustains demand.
- Pricing Pressure: High generic competition limits price increases, pressuring margins for manufacturers.
- Formulation Variants: Extended-release formulations like 150 mg or 200 mg are prevalent, with aggregate sales sustaining the market.
Price Projections (2023–2028)
- Price Stability: Under current conditions, the average wholesale prices are expected to remain stable due to durable generic competition.
- Market Dynamics: Introduction of biosimilar or interchangeable formulations is unlikely within this period to significantly alter pricing.
- Forecast Range: The typical price for a 30-day supply (100 mg, once daily) is expected to stay within $10–$20 retail, with minor fluctuations (<5%) driven by inflation and supply chain factors.
| Year |
Estimated Price Range (per 30-day supply) |
Key Factors |
| 2023 |
$10–$15 |
Market saturation; stable generic pricing |
| 2024 |
$10–$15 |
Continued generic competition; supply stability |
| 2025 |
$10–$15 |
No significant patent or regulatory changes |
| 2026 |
$10–$15 |
Market equilibrium |
| 2027 |
$10–$20 |
Potential minor inflation-driven increases |
| 2028 |
$10–$20 |
No major disruptors; steady demand |
Potential Market Challenges
- Regulatory Shifts: Any change in FDA policy regarding generics could influence pricing.
- Patent Disputes: Pending or new patent litigations could impact generics prices temporarily.
- Market Entrants: Introduction of new formulations or delivery methods might modify the competitive landscape.
Summary
The existing market for NDC 51407-0286 (bupropion SR) remains mature with high generic penetration. Prices are unlikely to increase significantly beyond current levels unless new regulatory, patent, or formulation developments occur. The price range of $10–$20 per 30-day supply remains consistent through 2028.
Key Takeaways
- Market size remains driven by depression and smoking cessation treatments, with generic versions dominating.
- Price stability is expected amid active competition, with minor inflationary increases.
- Future price shifts depend on regulatory changes, patent litigations, or innovative formulations.
- The product's generic status limits pricing power, keeping costs accessible.
FAQs
1. How does patent expiration impact pricing for NDC 51407-0286?
Patent expiration allows multiple generics to enter the market, increasing competition and reducing prices.
2. Are there significant differences in cost between branded and generic versions?
Yes. Generics typically cost 50-70% less than branded Wellbutrin SR.
3. What factors could cause prices to increase unexpectedly?
Regulatory changes, supply chain disruptions, or patent disputes may temporarily impact prices.
4. How does competition affect the profitability of manufacturing this drug?
High competition significantly compresses margins, especially as generic providers enter the market.
5. Will new formulations influence the market price of NDC 51407-0286?
Potentially, if new formulations offer therapeutic advantages and receive approval, they could shift market share and pricing dynamics.
References
[1] IQVIA. "Pharmaceutical Market Reports," 2022.
