Aspirin - Generic Drug Details

What are the generic sources for aspirin and what is the scope of freedom to operate?

Aspirin is the generic ingredient in fifty-three branded drugs marketed by Hesp, Plx Pharma, Bayer, Savage Labs, Lgm Pharma, Mpp Pharma, Watson Labs, Allergan, Sandoz, Actavis Elizabeth, Fosun Pharma, Halsey, Hikma Intl Pharms, Ivax Pharms, Puracap Pharm, Quantum Pharmics, Strides Pharma, Lannett, Dr Reddys Labs Sa, Novitium Pharma, Stevens J, Sun Pharm Industries, Chartwell Rx, Bausch, Galt Pharms, Alra, Xanodyne Pharm, Ivax Sub Teva Pharms, Teva, Chartwell, Novast Labs, Oxford Pharms, Meda Pharms, Ingenus Pharms Nj, Boehringer Ingelheim, Amneal Pharms, Ani Pharms, Barr, Chartwell Molecular, Dr Reddys, Glenmark Speclt, Micro Labs, Ph Health, Sun Pharm, Zydus Pharms, Schwarz Pharma, Abbott, Par Pharm, Medpointe Pharm Hlc, Mcneil, Robins Ah, Genus Lifesciences, Actavis Labs Fl Inc, Epic Pharma Llc, Endo Operations, Roxane, Sanofi Aventis Us, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Aaipharma Llc, and is included in eighty-nine NDAs. There are six patents protecting this compound. Additional information is available in the individual branded drug profile pages.

Aspirin has twenty patent family members in nine countries.

There are twenty-two drug master file entries for aspirin. One supplier is listed for this compound. There is one tentative approval for this compound.

Summary for aspirin

International Patents:	20
US Patents:	6
Tradenames:	53
Applicants:	59
NDAs:	89
Drug Master File Entries:	22
Finished Product Suppliers / Packagers:	1
Raw Ingredient (Bulk) Api Vendors:	136
Clinical Trials:	1,735
Drug Prices:	Drug price trends for aspirin
Drug Sales Revenues:	Drug sales revenues for aspirin
Patent Litigation and PTAB cases:	See patent lawsuits and PTAB cases for aspirin
What excipients (inactive ingredients) are in aspirin?	aspirin excipients list
DailyMed Link:	aspirin at DailyMed

See drug prices for aspirin

See drug sales revenues for aspirin

Recent Clinical Trials for aspirin

Identify potential brand extensions & 505(b)(2) entrants

Sponsor	Phase
Yale University	PHASE3
Medical University of South Carolina	PHASE3
University of Cincinnati	PHASE3

See all aspirin clinical trials

Generic filers with tentative approvals for ASPIRIN

Applicant	Application No.	Strength	Dosage Form
		81MG;40MG	TABLET;ORAL
		325MG;40MG	TABLET;ORAL

The 'tentative' approval signifies that the product meets all FDA standards for marketing, and, but for the patents / regulatory protections, it would approved.

Pharmacology for aspirin

Drug Class	Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug Platelet Aggregation Inhibitor
Mechanism of Action	Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
Physiological Effect	Decreased Platelet Aggregation Decreased Prostaglandin Production

Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) Categories for aspirin

Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal

Antipyretics

Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors

Fibrinolytic Agents

Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors

US Patents and Regulatory Information for aspirin

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Exclusivity Expiration
Halsey	BUTALBITAL, ASPIRIN AND CAFFEINE	aspirin; butalbital; caffeine	TABLET;ORAL	089448-001	Dec 1, 1986		DISCN	No	No
Fosun Pharma	BUTALBITAL, ASPIRIN AND CAFFEINE	aspirin; butalbital; caffeine	TABLET;ORAL	086398-002	Apr 6, 1984		DISCN	No	No
Stevens J	ORPHENADRINE CITRATE, ASPIRIN, AND CAFFEINE	aspirin; caffeine; orphenadrine citrate	TABLET;ORAL	074988-002	Apr 30, 1999		DISCN	No	No

Expired US Patents for aspirin

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	Patent No.	Patent Expiration
Plx Pharma	VAZALORE	aspirin	CAPSULE;ORAL	203697-001	Jan 14, 2013
Plx Pharma	VAZALORE	aspirin	CAPSULE;ORAL	203697-001	Jan 14, 2013
Plx Pharma	VAZALORE	aspirin	CAPSULE;ORAL	203697-001	Jan 14, 2013

International Patents for aspirin

Country	Patent Number	Title	Estimated Expiration
South Korea	20200118219
South Korea	20200008032
South Korea	20140105436

Supplementary Protection Certificates for aspirin

Patent Number	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration	SPC Description
0984957	2012/048	Ireland		PRODUCT NAME: A COMBINATION PRODUCT COMPRISING ASPIRIN AND ESOMEPRAZOLE MAGNESIUM TRIHYDRATE; NAT REGISTRATION NO/DATE: PA 970/063/001 20120831; FIRST REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 5402359; 5402367 5402375 20110812
0984957	122012000017	Germany		PRODUCT NAME: ASPIRIN UND ESOMEPRAZOL - MAGNESIUM-TRIHYDRAT; NAT. REGISTRATION NO/DATE: 81047.00.00 20110930 FIRST REGISTRATION: PORTUGAL 5402359 5402367 5402375 20110812

Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory for Aspiring: A Comprehensive Analysis

Last updated: October 14, 2025

Introduction

Aspirin, scientifically known as acetylsalicylic acid, remains one of the most iconic and widely used pharmaceuticals in the world. Originally developed in the late 19th century, its applications have expanded from analgesic and antipyretic uses to critical roles in cardiovascular disease management. This report delves into the current market dynamics and financial trajectory of aspirin, considering evolving regulatory landscapes, patent statuses, competitive forces, and emerging therapeutic trends.

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Global Market Overview and Historical Context

Aspirin's global market has experienced steady growth over the decades, driven primarily by its established uses in pain relief, fever reduction, and cardiovascular prophylaxis. According to recent industry reports, the global aspirin market was valued at approximately USD 3.5 billion in 2022, with projections indicating modest compound annual growth rates (CAGR) of around 2-3% through 2030 [1].

Historically, aspirin's patent expired in the early 20th century, allowing generic manufacturers to produce and distribute cost-effective formulations worldwide. Its longstanding reputation as a safe, inexpensive medication has cemented its role as a cornerstone of OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription drug markets.

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Market Drivers

1. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Prevention:
   Aspirin's antiplatelet properties have established it as a first-line agent for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke, particularly after the landmark 1988 US Physicians' Health Study [2].

2. Off-Label Uses:
   Expanding off-label applications, including for certain inflammatory and cancerous conditions, sustain demand despite regulatory scrutiny.

3. Generic Drug Market Expansion:
   The expiry of patents has facilitated widespread competition, making aspirin accessible and affordable, especially in emerging markets.

4. Growing Healthcare Access:
   Improved healthcare infrastructure and increased awareness of preventive medicine bolster OTC sales and prescribing patterns.

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Market Challenges

1. Regulatory and Safety Concerns:
   Recent evidence highlighting risks of gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke has prompted regulatory agencies such as the FDA and EMA to refine guidelines on aspirin use. These restrictions potentially dampen demand, especially for primary prevention in low-risk populations [3].

2. Evolving Therapeutic Alternatives:
   Introduction of novel antithrombotic agents (e.g., P2Y12 inhibitors like clopidogrel and ticagrelor) offer more targeted or safer options, challenging aspirin’s dominance in certain indications.

3. Patent and Formulation Issues:
   While the active ingredient is off patent, developments in new formulations (extended-release, combination drugs) face patent cliffs and generic competition, affecting premium pricing opportunities.

4. Market Saturation in Developed Regions:
   In mature markets such as North America and Europe, growth is plateauing due to market saturation and comparatively conservative prescribing practices.

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Emerging Trends Influencing Aspirin’s Financial Trajectory

1. Increasing Focus on Personalized Medicine:
Genetic and biomarker-driven strategies may refine patient selection for aspirin therapy, optimizing benefits and reducing risks, which could influence overall market size.

2. Expansion in Emerging Markets:
Rapid population growth, increased healthcare spending, and higher awareness are propelling aspirin's sales in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America [4].

3. Development of Novel Delivery Systems:
Innovations such as low-dose coated tablets and combination therapies are expected to enhance adherence and efficacy, unlocking new revenue streams.

4. Regulatory Reconsideration of Prophylactic Use:
Contemporary guidelines have narrowed indications for primary prevention, especially in low-risk groups, which could constrain future sales.

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Financial Trajectory Analysis

Historically, aspirin's revenues have been characterized by stability due to its status as a low-cost, over-the-counter medication. However, recent trends point toward a nuanced outlook:

• In Mature Markets: Revenue growth is stagnant or declining marginally, driven by safety concerns and restrictive guidelines.
• In Emerging Markets: Significant growth potential exists, with market expansion driven by increasing accessibility and affordability.
• Impact of Healthcare Policy: Governments emphasizing evidence-based medicine and risk stratification may lead to decreased usage in certain populations, influencing future revenue streams.

Projections suggest that while global aspirin sales may maintain a steady CAGR of around 2-3% up to 2030, the growth will predominantly originate from emerging economies and niche therapeutic segments, such as combination drugs or formulations targeting specific patient groups.

Profitability Outlook:
Generic manufacturing ensures high-volume, low-margin sales. Yet, companies investing in innovative formulations or on-label indications can achieve higher margins. Mergers, acquisitions, and licensing deals are anticipated to influence the competitive landscape, potentially impacting pricing strategies and revenue flows.

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Regulatory and Patent Landscape Impact

The absence of active patents on aspirin underscores the commoditization of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), fostering price competition. This environment constrains profitability for brands focused solely on the API but opens opportunities for value-added formulations, novel delivery systems, and combination products.

Furthermore, regulatory agencies' evolving stance on low-dose aspirin's prophylactic use influences market size. The US Preventive Services Task Force's recent guidelines recommend more individualized decision-making, which could reduce overall consumption in primary prevention indications [5].

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Competitive Landscape

The market landscape is predominantly populated by generic manufacturers, with a handful of branded players emphasizing formulation innovations or niche applications. Large pharmaceutical companies have shifted focus toward pipeline drugs and specialty therapies, often relegating aspirin to a commoditized position.

Key players include: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Solco Healthcare, Bayer Healthcare, and others. Bayer, historically synonymous with aspirin, continues to promote its formulations in niche markets and combination products.

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Future Outlook and Strategic Opportunities

• Innovation in Formulations: Developing targeted, sustained-release, or combination formulations can differentiate offerings and command premium pricing.
• Strategic Market Penetration: Focused expansion into pediatric, geriatric, and developing nations can sustain growth trajectories.
• Regulatory Advocacy: Engaging with health authorities to clarify and expand approved indications could sustain or grow market share.
• Partnerships and Licensing: Collaborations with biotech firms focusing on personalized medicine and biomarker-driven therapy can open avenues for tailored aspirin applications.

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Key Takeaways

• Aspirin remains a staple in cardiovascular prophylaxis, with stable global sales driven primarily by emerging markets and niche formulations.
• Market challenges—safety concerns, regulatory shifts, and competition from newer antithrombotic agents—are tempering growth prospects in mature markets.
• Innovation in formulations and targeted therapeutics offers critical avenues for revenue enhancement.
• Regulatory trends necessitate strategic adaptation, emphasizing personalized medicine and evidence-based indications.
• Companies focusing on emerging markets and value-added formulations can capitalize on untapped growth potential in a commoditized landscape.

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FAQs

1. Is aspirin still a viable investment in the current pharmaceutical landscape?
Yes. Despite market saturation in developed countries, emerging markets and innovative formulation development present growth opportunities. The low-cost, high-volume nature of aspirin ensures continued demand, especially if companies innovate or expand indications.

2. How do safety concerns impact aspirin's market?
Safety concerns, particularly regarding gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke risk, have led to more restrictive guidelines for primary prevention. These regulatory changes temper future sales, particularly in low-risk populations but have less impact on secondary prevention use.

3. What regulatory trends could influence aspirin's future market?
Guidelines advocating personalized risk assessment and evidence-based indications may lead to decreased usage in certain populations. Conversely, approvals of combination formulations or targeted therapies could create new growth avenues.

4. How significant is the role of generics in the aspirin market?
Generics dominate due to the patent expiration of aspirin, leading to intense price competition. This environment restricts margins but sustains volume-driven revenue, especially in price-sensitive markets.

5. What strategic moves can pharmaceutical companies adopt to enhance aspirin's market position?
Innovation in delivery systems, targeted formulations, and strategic expansion into emerging markets are key. Additionally, engaging with regulatory authorities to adapt and expand approved indications can significantly influence long-term prospects.

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References

[1] Research and Markets. (2022). Global Aspirin Market Report.
[2] The New England Journal of Medicine. (1988). The Physicians’ Health Study.
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Aspirin and Bleeding Risk.
[4] World Health Organization. (2021). Pharmacovigilance and Medicine Safety in Emerging Markets.
[5] U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2022). Aspirin Use in Primary Prevention.