Last updated: February 16, 2026
Overview of NDC 69238-1248
NDC 69238-1248 corresponds to Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (SR), marketed as Wellbutrin SR. It is an antidepressant used primarily for depression, seasonal affective disorder, and smoking cessation. The drug is a generic version of the brand name Wellbutrin SR.
Market Context
The global antidepressant market was valued at approximately USD 16 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 22 billion by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 5.4%.[1] Bupropion accounts for roughly 20-25% of the antidepressant prescriptions in the U.S., driven by its unique mechanism and mood stabilization profile.
Competitive Landscape
The market for bupropion extended-release formulations has mature competition, with key players including:
- GlaxoSmithKline (original patent holder for Wellbutrin)
- Mylan
- Teva Pharmaceuticals
- Amneal Pharmaceuticals
- Others
Generic versions have increased accessibility and lowered prices, intensifying price competition.
Current Pricing and Cost Drivers
Price Range (Per 30-Tablet Supply)
| Product Type |
Approximate Price (USD) |
Notes |
| Brand (Wellbutrin SR) |
$250 - $350 |
Premium pricing, limited competition |
| Generic (Bupropion SR 100mg, 150mg, 200mg) |
$10 - $30 per bottle (30 tablets) |
U.S. market, varies by supplier |
| Discounted/Wholesale Price |
$5 - $15 |
Bulk purchasing, hospital supply channels |
Influencing Factors
- Spectrum of formulations: 100mg, 150mg, 200mg tablets.
- Manufacturing costs: Limited by API availability but generally low for generics.
- Pricing strategies: Brand premiums versus aggressive generic discounting.
- Market penetration: High, due to established efficacy and safety profile.
Price Projections (Next 1-3 Years)
Base Case
- Prices for generic bupropion SR are expected to remain stable barring patent disputes or new formulations.
- The average wholesale price (AWP) is projected to decrease slightly (~5%) as competition intensifies.
- Wholesale and pharmacy acquisition costs could decrease by up to 15% over the next 2 years due to increased generic adoption.
Potential Upside
- Price stabilization if supply chain disruptions displace key suppliers.
- Slight increases if new patent litigation or exclusivity periods are granted on improved formulations.
Potential Downside
- Further price erosion due to market saturation.
- Entry of new generics with aggressive pricing.
- Policy changes favoring biosimilars or alternative therapies.
Regulatory and Patent Considerations
- The original patent for Wellbutrin SR expired in 2005.
- Recent patent litigations or exclusivities could influence pricing; currently, no patents restrict generics until 2024 at the earliest.
- The FDA approved multiple generic versions, increasing price competition.
Market Drivers and Limiters
| Drivers |
Limiters |
| Rising prevalence of depression and smoking cessation |
Pricing pressures from health insurers |
| Increased awareness and reduced stigma |
Patent litigations on newer formulations |
| Payer coverage and formulary inclusion |
Competition from alternative therapies (e.g., psychotherapy, other pharmacologics) |
Strategic Recommendations
- Long-term stability likely relies on maintaining competitive pricing.
- Firms can explore innovative delivery methods to prolong exclusivity.
- Wholesale and pharmacy brokers should monitor patent status updates, especially in late 2023 and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- NDC 69238-1248 represents generic bupropion SR, a saturated market with stable prices.
- Price points are primarily determined by competition, with minimal room for significant increases.
- The next few years will see minor price reductions driven by intensified generic competition.
- Patent expiries and regulatory developments could influence pricing strategies.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary therapeutic use of NDC 69238-1248?
It treats depression, seasonal affective disorder, and aids smoking cessation.
Q2: How do current prices compare between brand and generic versions?
Brand typically costs USD 250-350 for a 30-tablet supply, while generics are USD 10-30.
Q3: What factors could cause prices to fluctuate in the future?
Patent litigations, supply chain disruptions, and new regulatory approvals.
Q4: Are there any exclusivity periods for this drug?
No current patent exclusivities restrict generics until at least 2024.
Q5: Which market segments are most affected by this drug?
Insurance-covered outpatient prescriptions and institutional formulary supplies.
References
- MarketWatch, "Antidepressant Market Outlook," (2022).
