Last updated: March 19, 2026
What is NDC 70010-0497?
NDC 70010-0497 identifies a specific drug product registered with the FDA's National Drug Code database. Based on available public records, this NDC corresponds to Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution 0.2%.
Market Overview
Therapeutic Use and Indications
Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution 0.2% is primarily used for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It functions as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, reducing intraocular pressure.
Market Size and Trends
The US market for glaucoma medications was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2022. Growth drivers include an aging population, increased glaucoma prevalence, and steady pipeline development for related therapies.
Competitive Landscape
Major competitors include:
- Brimonidine (generic and branded formulations)
- Brinzolamide/Brimonidine combination products
- Latanoprost and other prostaglandin analogs
Key players hold significant market shares; generics account for over 80% of sales for brimonidine products.
Patent and Regulatory Status
The original patent for brimonidine expired in 2013 [1]. Several generic manufacturers, including Teva, Sandoz, and Apotex, produce the drug. Ongoing patent litigations or exclusivities are negligible, contributing to increased generic penetration.
Price Analysis
Current Pricing Data
- Brand Name (Alphagan P): Wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) around $320 for a 10 mL bottle (approx. 60-120 doses).
- Generic Brimonidine: WAC varies between $50 to $70 for comparable bottles.
- Retail prices are often discounted further through pharmacy benefit managers or patient assistance programs.
Pricing Trends
Over the past five years, generic prices have stabilized around $50-$70, with slight declines due to increased competition and supply chain efficiencies. Brand-name products maintain premium pricing, although market share is declining.
Price Projections
Projected price trends suggest:
- Short-term (1-2 years): Prices will remain stable, driven by consistent generic supply and steady demand.
- Mid-term (3-5 years): Prices are expected to decline slightly, possibly reaching $45-$60 for generics due to market saturation.
- Long-term (5+ years): Innovation or new delivery forms could influence pricing, but no significant shifts are anticipated soon.
Factors Influencing Pricing Dynamics
- Entry of new generic competitors.
- Changes in healthcare reimbursement policies.
- Patent litigations or exclusivities, which do not currently affect this NDC.
- Potential biosimilar or new formulations entering the market.
Market Outlook Summary
| Metric |
Value/Projection |
| Market Size (2022) |
$1.8 billion (US) |
| Generic Market Penetration |
>80% |
| Current Average Price (generics) |
$50-$70 per 10 mL bottle |
| Price Trend (next 2 years) |
Stable to slight decline |
| Expected Long-term Price |
$45-$60 |
Key Takeaways
- The drug identified by NDC 70010-0497 is a generic brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution.
- The market is mature with high generic penetration, leading to stable or declining prices.
- Current prices for generics hover between $50 and $70 per bottle, with expectations of minor reductions in the near term.
- Limited patent protection curtails pricing premiums, supporting competitive pressures.
- The overall market is expected to remain stable with no major shifts predicted in the next five years.
FAQs
1. What factors could significantly alter the price of this medication?
Introduction of new formulations, patent litigation outcomes, or regulatory changes impacting reimbursement policies could affect prices.
2. How does the price of this drug compare to other glaucoma treatments?
Brimonidine is generally less expensive than prostaglandin analogs like latanoprost, which can cost $150-$200 per bottle.
3. Is there potential for biosimilar or new delivery systems?
Currently, no biosimilars exist for brimonidine, and new delivery methods are limited due to formulation complexity.
4. How do insurance coverage trends impact the drug’s pricing?
Insurance negotiations and coverage policies often favor generics, reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients but exerting downward pressure on list prices.
5. Are supply chain disruptions likely to influence pricing?
Supply chain issues are minimal for generic ophthalmic solutions but could arise from manufacturing shortages or raw material supply constraints.
References
[1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Patent and exclusivity data for brimonidine. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov
