Last updated: February 23, 2026
What is the drug associated with NDC 69238-1247?
NDC 69238-1247 corresponds to Brilinta (ticagrelor) tablets. Approved by the FDA in 2015, Brilinta is an antiplatelet agent indicated for reducing thrombotic cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or history of myocardial infarction (MI). It is marketed by AstraZeneca.
What are the current market dynamics?
Market Size and Demand
- The U.S. market for antiplatelet drugs was valued at approximately $3.2 billion in 2022.[1]
- Brilinta accounts for an estimated 25-30% share of that market, translating to $800-$960 million annually.[2]
- The drug's prevalence is driven by the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases, especially in aging populations.
Competitive Landscape
- Main competitors include Plavix (clopidogrel), Effient (prasugrel), and aspirin.
- Brilinta is distinguished by its faster onset and reversibility compared to clopidogrel.
- Patent exclusivity for Brilinta extends until at least 2026, with potential for patent extensions or biosimilar competition afterward.
Regulatory and Reimbursement Factors
- Brilinta has received reimbursement coverage from major insurers and Medicare.
- Ongoing cost-effectiveness evaluations influence formulary positioning and reimbursement.
What are the price trends?
Current Pricing
- List price for a 60-count pack of Brilinta (90 mg tablets): approximately $430-$460 per bottle.[3]
- Average wholesale price (AWP): around $7.20 per tablet.
- Patient co-pays vary based on insurance, generally around $20-$50 per month**.
Pricing Trends
- Historically, Brilinta's price increased modestly (~3-5% annually) since launch.
- Price reductions have occurred with increased generic or alternative therapies, though Brilinta remains a premium product.
- In 2022, AstraZeneca introduced value-based pricing agreements in select markets, linking payments to outcomes.
Price Projections (2023-2028)
| Year |
Approximate Price per 60-Count Pack |
Notes |
| 2023 |
$440 |
Stable, with minor increases reflecting inflation and healthcare cost adjustments. |
| 2024 |
$445 |
Expected slight increase; potential impact of biosimilar entry avoided due to patent protections. |
| 2025 |
$445 |
Price stability projected; patent expiration not expected before 2026. |
| 2026 |
$410 - $430 |
Potential decline if biosimilars or generics enter the market; depends on patent litigation outcomes. |
| 2027 |
$390 - $410 |
Further price erosion possible contingent on generic approval and market penetration. |
What factors affect future pricing and market share?
- Patent status: Patent expiry in 2026 may trigger generic competition, leading to significant price reductions.
- Market penetration: Adoption rates by physicians and payers influence volume sales and revenue.
- Therapeutic competition: Development of new antiplatelet agents or alternative therapies could impact demand.
- Regulatory changes: Reimbursement policies and cost-effectiveness assessments might constrain pricing.
- Biosimilar and generic entry: Market entry after patent expiration anticipated to reduce prices by 30-50%.
What is the outlook for revenues?
- If current market shares and pricing persist, revenues for Brilinta remain close to $800-$960 million annually until patent expiry.
- Post-2026, revenue could decline sharply, with generic versions capturing a significant portion of the market.
- Strategic actions, such as value-based pricing, could mitigate revenue declines before patent expiration.
Key Takeaways
- The drug aligned with NDC 69238-1247 is Brilinta (ticagrelor).
- The U.S. market for Brilinta is valued at nearly $1 billion annually, with stable pricing around $440 per pack.
- Patent expiration in 2026 is expected to cause a sharp price decrease due to generic competition.
- Market share remains solid, but future revenue depends heavily on patent and biosimilar developments.
- Cost containment and value-based agreements will influence future drug pricing and reimbursement landscape.
FAQs
Q1: When does the patent for Brilinta expire?
A1: Patent protections are expected to expire in 2026, opening the door for biosimilar competition.
Q2: What are the main competitors of Brilinta?
A2: Plavix (clopidogrel), Effient (prasugrel), and aspirin.
Q3: How does Brilinta's price compare to its competitors?
A3: Brilinta generally has a higher list price than generics but offers advantages like reversible platelet inhibition.
Q4: Will biosimilars significantly reduce the price?
A4: Yes, biosimilars are projected to lower prices by 30-50% post-patent expiry.
Q5: How do reimbursement policies influence Brilinta’s market?
A5: Coverage and formulary placement driven by cost-effectiveness assessments directly impact sales volume and pricing.
References
[1] IQVIA, "U.S. Pharmaceutical Market Estimates," 2022.
[2] EvaluatePharma, "Market Share Data," 2022.
[3] Drug.com, "Brilinta (ticagrelor) pricing," 2023.
[4] FDA, "Approved Drugs Database," 2015.
