Last updated: February 23, 2026
What is NDC 70954-0879?
NDC 70954-0879 corresponds to Brilinta (ticagrelor), a platelet aggregation inhibitor indicated for reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or a history of myocardial infarction.
Market Overview
Indications and Patient Population
Brilinta primarily targets patients with ACS, which includes unstable angina, ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). The total eligible population in the U.S. exceeds 2 million annually, considering the approximate 4 million Americans hospitalized annually with ACS—the subset receiving ticagrelor therapy accounts for around 50%.
Market Size
| Metric |
Value |
| Annual ACS hospitalizations (U.S.) |
1.7 million (Source: CDC, 2020) |
| Patients eligible for antiplatelet therapy |
50% of ACS patients (~850,000 annually) |
| Current prescribing rate (U.S.) |
Estimated 70-80% of eligible patients |
| Addressable market (U.S.) |
~595,000–680,000 patients annually |
Competitive Landscape
Brilinta competes primarily with Plavix (clopidogrel) and Effient (prasugrel). While clopidogrel remains the most prescribed antiplatelet agent, ticagrelor's faster onset and reversible binding give it an edge in certain clinical settings.
Revenue Trends
In 2022, global sales of Brilinta totaled approximately $1.2 billion, with U.S. sales accounting for roughly 60%. Market penetration has steadily increased following adoption in ACS guidelines.
Price Projections
Current Pricing
- Average wholesale price (AWP): Approximately $300 per 60-tablet pack.
- Per-pill cost: ~$5, based on a standard 90 mg twice daily regimen.
- Monthly treatment cost per patient: ~$300.
Future Price Trends
Factors influencing price:
- Patent status: Brilinta’s patent protection expires in 2024. Post-expiration, generic formulations are expected to enter the market.
- Generic competition: Entry of generics typically reduces prices by 60-80%.
- Market penetration: Wider adoption of generics may lead to significant price erosion.
- Pricing policies: Payers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) may negotiate discounts and rebates.
Price projections (next 3 years):
| Year |
Estimated Price (per 60 tablets) |
Notes |
| 2023 |
$300 |
Current price |
| 2024 |
$120–$180 |
Post-patent expiry, generics enter market |
| 2025 |
$60–$100 |
Market stabilization under generic competition |
Revenue Prospects Post-Patent
Assuming continued adoption and retention of a 60% market share among eligible patients, revenue could decline from $1.2 billion (2022) toward ~$400 million by 2025 due to price erosion and competition.
Market Entry of Generics
The entry of multiple generic manufacturers could further accelerate price declines, impacting overall revenue adversely for the brand.
Market Risks & Opportunities
Risks
- Patent expiry leading to significant revenue decline.
- Competitive pressures from lower-cost generics.
- Changes in clinical guidelines favoring alternative therapies.
- Payer resistance to high-cost medications.
Opportunities
- Expanding indications (e.g., peripheral artery disease).
- Securing new formulations or delivery mechanisms.
- Expanding markets outside the U.S. (Europe, Asia).
Summary
| Aspect |
Details |
| Market Size |
~595,000–680,000 U.S. patients annually |
| Current Revenue (2022) |
~$1.2 billion global; U.S. ~$720 million |
| Price Trend (Next 3 Years) |
From ~$300 to ~$60–$180, driven by patent expiry and generics |
| Key Risks |
Patent expiration, generic competition, market shifts |
| Key Opportunities |
New indications, formulations, international expansion |
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. market for ticagrelor (NDC 70954-0879) currently exceeds $700 million annually.
- Prices are expected to decline substantially following patent expiration in 2024.
- The availability of generics will likely reduce the per-unit cost by 60-80%.
- Market share may shrink unless the brand maintains a strong foothold or expands indications.
- Global markets represent growth opportunities but require strategic adaptations.
FAQs
1. When does the patent for Brilinta expire?
Patent protection is expected to end in 2024, opening the market for generics.
2. How will generic entry impact pricing?
Generic entry typically results in a 60-80% price reduction, affecting revenue and market shares.
3. Are there any ongoing clinical trials expanding ticagrelor indications?
Yes, trials exploring additional indications, including peripheral artery disease, are ongoing but not yet leading to expanded approval.
4. What pricing strategies can companies use post-patent expiry?
Strategies include discounting, bundling, or developing combination products to maintain market share.
5. How does Brilinta compare clinically with competitors?
Ticagrelor has demonstrated superior efficacy over clopidogrel in multiple trials but faces pricing and formulary competition from cheaper alternatives.
References
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Heart Disease Facts. CDC.
[2] IQVIA. (2023). U.S. Prescription Data.
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Patent Expiry Dates for Brilinta.
[4] EvaluatePharma. (2022). Global Cardiology Drug Market.
