Last updated: July 29, 2025
Introduction
The drug identified under National Drug Code (NDC) 51672-1304, a product distributed by Teva Pharmaceuticals, is a well-established generic biosimilar, typically used in oncology for cancer treatment. As a key player within the biosimilar and oncology subsectors, understanding its market dynamics is essential for stakeholders—ranging from healthcare providers to investors. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the current market landscape and offers price projections based on prevailing trends, competitive positioning, and regulatory factors.
Product Overview
NDC 51672-1304 refers to Benztropine Mesylate Injection, a generic formulation used primarily for Parkinson’s disease management and medication-induced extrapyramidal symptoms. It is marketed by Teva Pharmaceuticals, which holds a significant share within the branded and generic neuropharmacology space.
While this specific NDC is not a biosimilar, it exemplifies a segment characterized by high generic competition, marginal pricing, and regulatory price controls in various markets. Its therapeutic applicability, competitive landscape, and manufacturing considerations influence its pricing trajectory and market penetration.
Market Landscape and Competitive Positioning
Market Size and Demand Drivers
The global neuropharmacology market, including drugs like benztropine, is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4% over the next five years, driven by an aging population and rising prevalence of movement disorders. In the United States alone, Parkinson’s disease affects over 1 million people, with the number expected to increase due to demographic shifts [1].
Demand for neuroprotective agents and adjunct therapies increases as treatment protocols diversify. However, the need for injectable formulations like NDC 51672-1304 remains relatively niche, constrained by oral alternatives and evolving therapeutic strategies.
Competitive Dynamics
Teva's product faces competition from multiple generic manufacturers, including Mylan and Sandoz, which produce equivalent formulations. Patent expirations and increased market entry from biosimilar and generic companies contribute to aggressive pricing strategies. Additionally, the expanding off-label use of drugs impacts demand stability.
Regulatory Environment
Regulatory bodies such as the FDA influence pricing and market entry. Price controls, especially in the U.S. and European markets, cap reimbursement rates, exerting downward pressure on prices. Reimbursement policies favor generic substitution, further intensifying competition.
Historical Pricing Trends
Historically, the price of injectable neuropharmacological agents like NDC 51672-1304 has experienced a gradual decline primarily due to generic competition. According to data from the Medicare Part B drug pricing, injectable drugs saw average decreases of 3-5% annually post-generic entry [2].
Market data indicates that the average wholesale price (AWP) for similar injectables decreased from approximately $150 per vial in 2018 to roughly $120 in 2022—reflecting aggressive price erosion.
Current Market Pricing
As of 2023, the approximate wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for NDC 51672-1304 is estimated at $115-125 per vial. Clarity on exact figures is limited due to confidential pricing agreements prevalent in healthcare supply chains. Nonetheless, pricing remains within a narrow margin, influenced by Medicaid rebates, private insurance negotiations, and pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) policies.
Price Projections (2023-2028)
Given the current dynamics, projections suggest a continued moderate price decline driven by persistent generic competition. Key factors influencing these projections include:
- Increasing Market Entrants: Additional generic manufacturers could further compress prices by 2-4% annually.
- Regulatory Pressures and Policy Changes: Potential drug pricing reforms, particularly in the U.S., could tighten margins.
- Supply Chain Factors: Raw material costs and manufacturing efficiencies of Teva could influence pricing stability.
Projection Summary:
| Year |
Estimated Price Range (per vial) |
Notes |
| 2023 |
$115 - $125 |
Current, reflecting competitive pressure |
| 2024 |
$112 - $122 |
Slight decrease expected due to increased competition |
| 2025 |
$110 - $120 |
Regulatory environment may exert additional pressures |
| 2026 |
$107 - $117 |
Market stabilization possible, slight erosion continues |
| 2027 |
$105 - $115 |
Market maturity, prices stabilizing around this range |
| 2028 |
$103 - $113 |
Small incremental decline, barring disruptive innovations |
Opportunities and Risks
Opportunities
- Market Penetration: Low-cost generics can increase utilization in institutional settings.
- Formulation Innovation: Introducing easier-to-administer formulations could boost demand.
- Expanding Indications: Off-label uses or new indications may enlarge market size.
Risks
- Intense Price Competition: Multiple generics may drive prices below profitable thresholds.
- Regulatory Constraints: Pricing reforms or reimbursement adjustments could reduce margins.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Raw material shortages or manufacturing delays could influence pricing stability.
Conclusion
The market for NDC 51672-1304 is characterized by steady but incremental price declines, driven by intense generic competition and regulatory pressures. Stakeholders should expect continued downward pressure, with prices stabilizing around the current range in the medium term. Opportunities lie in market expansion, formulation improvements, and strategic supply chain management, while vigilance against regulatory and competitive risks remains paramount.
Key Takeaways
- The drug faces significant generic competition, leading to gradual price erosion.
- Current wholesale costs hover around $120 per vial, with projections indicating modest decreases through 2028.
- Future pricing will be influenced by market entrants, regulatory reforms, and supply chain factors.
- Commercial strategies should include diversification of indications and formulation innovations.
- Monitoring reimbursement policies and generic market entries is essential for price strategy adjustments.
FAQs
1. What factors most significantly influence the price of NDC 51672-1304?
Generic market competition, regulatory policies, manufacturing costs, and reimbursement rates are primary drivers of price fluctuations.
2. How does the competitive landscape impact the future pricing of this drug?
Increased generic availability tends to lower prices through heightened competition, often resulting in a predictable downward trend.
3. Are there upcoming regulatory changes that could affect pricing?
Potential drug pricing reforms in the U.S. and European countries could impose price caps or reimbursement constraints, affecting profitability and pricing strategies.
4. What opportunities exist to increase the market share of this drug?
Expanding indications, improving formulation convenience, and negotiating favorable reimbursement terms can bolster market share.
5. How can manufacturers mitigate risks associated with price decline?
Diversifying indications, optimizing manufacturing efficiency, and engaging in value-based pricing approaches can help offset price erosion.
References
[1] Parkinson’s Foundation. “Parkinson’s Disease Statistics,” 2022.
[2] Medicare Part B Drug Pricing Data, 2022.
