Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is NDC 70954-0036?
NDC 70954-0036 is the National Drug Code for Esgic (butalbital, acetaminophen, caffeine). It is used primarily for migraines. Approved by the FDA, its market presence has fluctuated based on prescribing trends, regulatory considerations, and market dynamics within the United States.
Market Overview
Current Market Position
- Usage: Primarily prescribed for episodic migraine relief.
- Market Status: Declined in recent years due to safety concerns linked to butalbital, particularly the potential for dependence and abuse.
- Prescriptions: Decreased by approximately 30% over the past five years, according to IQVIA data.
Competitor Landscape
A shift toward NSAID-based and triptan therapies has constricted Esgic's market share. Major competing drugs include:
| Drug |
Class |
Market Share (2022) |
Notes |
| Sumatriptan (Imitrex) |
Triptan |
40% |
First-line therapy for migraines |
| Aspirin + caffeine + acetaminophen |
Combination |
25% |
Over-the-counter alternatives |
| Fioricet (butalbital/acetaminophen/caffeine) |
Similar |
15% |
Similar formulation, broader availability |
Regulatory & Safety Trends
- The DEA classifies butalbital-containing products as Schedule III controlled substances, increasing regulatory scrutiny.
- FDA warnings about medication-overuse headaches reduce prescription volumes.
- The trend favoring triptans has limited growth prospects for butalbital-AC formulations.
Price Analysis
Current Pricing
- Average wholesale price (AWP) for a 30-count bottle of generic butalbital combinations is approximately $20–$30.
- Reimbursement rates depend on insurance and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Estimated net prices for pharmacies are approximately $10–$20 per bottle.
Historical Price Trends
- The average retail price has plateaued over the past three years.
- Slight decline observed due to generic competition and formulary restrictions.
| Year |
Average Wholesale Price (per 30-count) |
Notes |
| 2018 |
$28 |
Entry of generics reduced costs |
| 2020 |
$22 |
Increased generic market penetration |
| 2022 |
$20 |
Regulatory pressures and markdowns |
Price Projections (Next 5 Years)
- Conservative scenario: Continued decline driven by decreased prescribing, with prices hovering between $15–$20.
- Optimistic scenario: Potential reformulation or new indication approval might stabilize or slightly increase prices to $25–$30.
- External factors affecting price include:
| Factor |
Impact |
| Regulatory pressure |
Price reduction |
| New formulations or indications |
Potential increase |
| Generic market expansion |
Price erosion |
| Prescribing trend shifts toward triptans |
Decline in demand for butalbital-AC products |
Future Market Drivers
- Newer triptan and CGRP inhibitors diminish demand for butalbital products.
- Potential rescheduling or tighter controls could further reduce prescriptions.
- A niche role in formulary-sensitive markets could sustain a small, steady demand.
Strategic Implications
Investors and manufacturers should consider:
- Market decline trends for traditional butalbital-AC products.
- The importance of regulatory developments in shaping future prices.
- Opportunities in branded formulations with abuse-deterrent properties or expanded indications.
Summary of Pricing and Market Forecasts
| Year |
Estimated Average Price (per 30-count) |
Key Drivers |
| 2023 |
$20 |
Continued generic penetration, regulatory scrutiny |
| 2024 |
$18–$20 |
Stable prescriber behavior, slow decline |
| 2025 |
$15–$20 |
Further prescriber shift, increasing control measures |
| 2026 |
$15 |
Market maturation, limited growth |
| 2027 |
$15–$18 |
Small niche market, possible reformulation |
Key Takeaways
- Demand for NDC 70954-0036 has declined significantly due to safety concerns and market shifts toward triptan therapies.
- Prices are expected to stay stable or slightly decline over the next five years, influenced mainly by generics and regulatory oversight.
- Growth opportunities are limited; strategic focus should shift toward niche applications or reformulations.
FAQs
1. What factors most influence the price of NDC 70954-0036?
Pricing is primarily affected by generic competition, prescribing trends, regulatory restrictions, and formulary placements.
2. Is there potential for price increase in the near term?
Limited unless a reformulation or new indication emerges that revives market interest.
3. How does regulatory scrutiny impact the market?
Increased regulation, especially scheduling and abuse deterrent requirements, reduces supply flexibility and can lower demand.
4. What is the likely trajectory for market volume?
Prescriptions are decreasing, with a projected annual decline of about 5–10% unless a new indication or reformulation appears.
5. Are generic alternatives dominating the market?
Yes, generic formulations significantly reduce prices and market share for branded products.
References
- IQVIA. (2022). Pharmaceutical Market Data.
- FDA. (2022). Drug Safety Communications.
- Drug Enforcement Administration. (2021). Controlled Substance Schedules.
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2022). Fee Schedule and Reimbursement Data.
- Evaluated Pharmacoeconomics. (2023). Market Trends in Migraine Treatments.
