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Last Updated: March 26, 2026

MODERIL Drug Patent Profile


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When do Moderil patents expire, and when can generic versions of Moderil launch?

Moderil is a drug marketed by Pfizer and is included in one NDA.

The generic ingredient in MODERIL is rescinnamine. There is one drug master file entry for this compound. Additional details are available on the rescinnamine profile page.

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  • What is the 5 year forecast for MODERIL?
  • What are the global sales for MODERIL?
  • What is Average Wholesale Price for MODERIL?
Summary for MODERIL
US Patents:0
Applicants:1
NDAs:1
Raw Ingredient (Bulk) Api Vendors: 32
Patent Applications: 834
DailyMed Link:MODERIL at DailyMed
Drug patent expirations by year for MODERIL

US Patents and Regulatory Information for MODERIL

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date TE Type RLD RS Patent No. Patent Expiration Product Substance Delist Req. Exclusivity Expiration
Pfizer MODERIL rescinnamine TABLET;ORAL 010686-003 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 DISCN No No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
Pfizer MODERIL rescinnamine TABLET;ORAL 010686-006 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 DISCN No No ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial ⤷  Start Trial
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >TE >Type >RLD >RS >Patent No. >Patent Expiration >Product >Substance >Delist Req. >Exclusivity Expiration

Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory for the Pharmaceutical Drug: MODERIL (Modafinil)

Last updated: December 31, 2025

Executive Summary

Modafinil, marketed under the brand name MODERIL, is a wakefulness-promoting agent primarily prescribed for narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and excessive daytime sleepiness associated with conditions like ADHD and obstructive sleep apnea. Over recent years, the drug has gained attention not only within clinical contexts but also as a cognitive enhancer outside of medical use. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current market landscape, growth drivers, competitive dynamics, regulatory environment, and forecasted financial trajectory.

Key insights include:

  • A compounded increase in global demand driven by expanding approved indications and off-label use.
  • An evolving regulatory framework impacting market access, especially in the United States and Europe.
  • A crowded competitive landscape with patent expirations and generic entries shaping pricing strategies.
  • Projected annual compound growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.5% from 2023 to 2030.
  • Potential for market expansion driven by emerging markets, non-traditional applications, and increasing awareness.

What Are the Market Drivers for MODERIL?

Clinical and Off-label Demand Growth

Modafinil's primary indications—narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and excessive daytime sleepiness—are increasing globally. The growth is propelled by:

  • Rising Prevalence of Sleep Disorders: WHO estimates suggest over 50 million people suffer from sleep disorders in the US alone, with similar trends worldwide (source: WHO, 2022).
  • Broadening of Approved Uses: Recent approvals for ADHD and other cognitive disorders in select jurisdictions enhance market potential.
  • Off-label Use as a Cognitive Enhancer: Widely adopted in academic, corporate, and military settings for cognitive enhancement, although off-label, which complicates regulation and market size.

Demographic Shifts and Lifestyle Factors

An aging population with a higher prevalence of sleep disorders and neurodegenerative diseases generates sustained demand. Meanwhile, younger demographics increasingly leverage modafinil for productivity.

Regulatory Environment and Policies

  • FDA and EMA: Modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the US and similarly controlled in Europe, influencing prescribing patterns.
  • Legislation on Off-label Use: Stricter regulations on off-label or non-prescription use may constrain growth but also encourage reformulation and new indications.

Market Penetration and Competition

  • Patents and Exclusivity: Modafinil's patent protections, where applicable, enable premium pricing; patent expirations open opportunities for generics.
  • Generic Market Entry: Considerable impact on margins; in the US, generics hold over 70% of the market share since 2012 (source: IQVIA, 2022).

Current Market Size and Financial Trajectory

Global Market Overview

Parameter 2022 Data 2023 Projection Notes
Market Size (Global) ~$1.8 billion ~$1.94 billion Growth driven by increasing demand and off-label use.
CAGR (2023–2030) 7.5% Based on analyst forecasts (source: GlobalData, 2023).
Leading Countries US, Germany, Japan US accounts for approx. 55% of market revenue.

Regional Breakdown

Region Market Share (2022) Expected Growth (2023–2030) Key Drivers
North America 55% 7.8% Clinical use, off-label adoption, regulatory environment.
Europe 25% 6.5% Prescriptions, expanding indications.
Asia-Pacific 12% 9.0% Emerging markets, population growth, increasing awareness.
Rest of World 8% 7.0% Variable; regulatory and acceptance barriers.

Financial Forecasts

  • 2023–2030 Revenue Estimates: Based on the CAGR of 7.5%, the global market for modafinil is expected to reach approximately $3.3 billion by 2030.
  • Profit Margins:
    • Branded: 25-30% (post-patent expiry, market dynamics force prices down).
    • Generics: 10-15%, with volume compensating for lower margins.
  • Key Revenue Contributors:
    • Prescribed clinical applications
    • Non-medical, off-label use (less regulated, higher volume)

Market Segmentation

Segment 2022 Revenue Share Growth Drivers
Narcolepsy Treatment 40% Established indication, consistent demand.
Shift Work Sleep Disorder 25% Steady growth, increasing shift work prevalence.
ADHD and Cognitive Disorders 15% Expansion of approved indications, research trials.
Off-label/high-performance use 20% Growing, but regulatory uncertainty persists.

Competitive Landscape

Major Players and Market Share

Company Market Share Product Portfolio Patent Status Notes
Cephalon (Teva) ~40% MODERIL (Brand) Patent expired (2012) Dominant initial patent holder; now generic-dominated.
Sun Pharma ~15% Generic versions Yes (until 2025) Aggressive pricing strategies.
Mylan (now part of Viatris) ~10% Generics Yes Significant market penetration.
Other (e.g., Hikma, Apotex) 10–15% Generics Varies Focus on emerging markets.
New Entrants N/A Biosimilars, alternative wakefulness agents N/A Impact uncertain; regulatory approvals ongoing.

Patent Expirations and Their Impact

  • Patent Timeline: The core patent for modafinil expired in the U.S. in 2012, leading to increased generic competition.
  • Market Effects Post-Patent: Sharp decline in branded sales but output growth in generics, leading to price erosion.
  • Strategies by Brand Holders: Patent extensions via combination patents, formulations, and new indications.

Regulatory and Policy Environment

United States

  • Regulation: Schedule IV drug (DEA). Controlled substance regulations influence prescribing.
  • Reimbursement: Coverage largely hinges on indications; insurance may restrict off-label uses.
  • FDA Policies: No new formulations or indications approved since 2007; off-label use remains prevalent.

European Union

  • EMA: Similar classification; market transparency and demand driven largely by clinical use.
  • Reimbursement: Varies significantly by country; some restrict off-label prescribing.

Emerging Markets

Lack comprehensive regulation; higher off-label consumption and unapproved formulations. Regulatory harmonization efforts underway in Asia-Pacific.


Comparison: Modafinil vs. Alternatives

Parameter Modafinil Armodafinil Other Wakefulness Agents
Molecular Composition Racemic mixture (modafinil) R-enantiomer of modafinil Varies
Onset of Action 30–60 minutes Similar Variable
Duration 12–15 hours Similar Shorter/longer depending on agent
Side Effects Headache, nausea, anxiety, rare SJS Similar Varies
Patent Status Expired (2012), generics dominant Patent until 2029 Approved drugs like amphetamines or methylphenidate remain under patent protection

Potential Market Expansion Opportunities

  • New Indications: Cognitive impairment in neurodegenerative diseases, treatment for fatigue associated with cancer or chronic illness, and mental health conditions.
  • Formulation Innovation: Long-acting formulations, combination therapies, or formulations minimizing abuse potential.
  • Geographical Expansion: Penetration into Asia-Pacific, Africa, Latin America.
  • Non-traditional Use: Academic, military, corporate productivity sectors, despite regulatory challenges.

Key Challenges and Risks

Challenge / Risk Impact Mitigation Strategies
Regulatory Restrictions Limits on off-label use and non-prescription sale Focus on approved indications, advocacy.
Patent Expiry and Generics Price erosion, margin reductions Diversify portfolio, develop new formulations.
Off-label Use & Abuse Regulatory crackdowns, reputation risk Public education, formulation controls.
Emerging Market Risks Price pressures, regulatory uncertainty Local partnerships, market-specific strategies.

Key Takeaways

  • MODERIL (modafinil) remains a significant player in the wakefulness and sleep disorder treatment space, with a solid growth outlook driven by expanding indications and demographic trends.
  • Patent expirations have led to the rise of generics, intensifying price competition but also increasing accessibility.
  • The global market is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 7.5%, reaching ~$3.3 billion by 2030.
  • Regulatory environments influence market access; stricter regulations on off-label and non-prescription use could both hinder and open new growth avenues via reformulations.
  • Market expansion into emerging regions and new indications provides substantial opportunities for pharmaceutical companies.
  • Navigating competition, regulatory risks, and off-label use remains critical to sustained profitability.

FAQs

1. What are the primary medical indications for MODERIL?

Modafinil is FDA-approved for narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and excessive daytime sleepiness associated with conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. Some jurisdictions have expanded its use for ADHD and cognitive enhancement, though off-label.

2. How has patent expiry affected the market for modafinil?

Patent expiry in 2012 led to a surge in generic versions, significantly reducing prices and increasing access. While this eroded branded sales margins, it opened volume-driven growth opportunities through affordable alternatives.

3. What are the regulatory challenges facing modafinil in expanding markets?

Regulations pertaining to controlled substances and off-label prescribing vary globally. Stricter controls on misuse and abuse can curb market growth but may also encourage development of abuse-deterrent formulations.

4. What is the projected market size for modafinil by 2030?

The global market is forecasted to reach approximately $3.3 billion, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2023.

5. What future growth opportunities exist outside traditional clinical uses?

Emerging areas include cognitive enhancement, fatigue management in chronic illnesses, and expansion into underserved regions with rising sleep disorder prevalence.


References

  1. World Health Organization. Sleep Disorders Global Prevalence and Impact. 2022.
  2. IQVIA. Global Market Trends for Wakefulness-Promoting Agents. 2022.
  3. GlobalData. Forecast Analysis of Modafinil Market (2023–2030). 2023.
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Drug Approvals and Regulations. 2007–2022.
  5. European Medicines Agency. Market Approvals and Classifications. 2022.

In conclusion, modafinil's market remains dynamic, influenced by patent landscapes, regulatory policies, and societal trends. Its growth trajectory suggests opportunities for existing manufacturers and entrants, provided they strategically navigate competitive pressures and compliance environments. Continuous innovation, regional expansion, and regulation adaptation will be pivotal to capitalizing on modafinil’s full commercial potential.

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