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Last Updated: January 1, 2026

MOTRIN Drug Patent Profile


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Which patents cover Motrin, and what generic alternatives are available?

Motrin is a drug marketed by Mcneil, Mcneil Consumer, Mcneil Ped, and Kenvue Brands. and is included in six NDAs.

The generic ingredient in MOTRIN is ibuprofen. There are sixty-four drug master file entries for this compound. Two hundred and thirty-eight suppliers are listed for this compound. Additional details are available on the ibuprofen profile page.

DrugPatentWatch® Litigation and Generic Entry Outlook for Motrin

A generic version of MOTRIN was approved as ibuprofen by STRIDES PHARMA INTL on September 24th, 1986.

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Summary for MOTRIN
US Patents:0
Applicants:4
NDAs:6
Raw Ingredient (Bulk) Api Vendors: 1
Clinical Trials: 74
Patent Applications: 3,877
What excipients (inactive ingredients) are in MOTRIN?MOTRIN excipients list
DailyMed Link:MOTRIN at DailyMed
Drug patent expirations by year for MOTRIN
Drug Sales Revenue Trends for MOTRIN

See drug sales revenues for MOTRIN

Recent Clinical Trials for MOTRIN

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

SponsorPhase
University of MiamiPhase 2
Guangzhou Kangqi Medical Technology Co., LTDPhase 1
Weill Medical College of Cornell UniversityPhase 4

See all MOTRIN clinical trials

Paragraph IV (Patent) Challenges for MOTRIN
Tradename Dosage Ingredient Strength NDA ANDAs Submitted Submissiondate
MOTRIN Intravenous ibuprofen 1000 mg/50 mL 2000 mg/100 mL 020418 2 2025-08-26

US Patents and Regulatory Information for MOTRIN

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date TE Type RLD RS Patent No. Patent Expiration Product Substance Delist Req. Exclusivity Expiration
Mcneil MOTRIN ibuprofen SUSPENSION/DROPS;ORAL 020476-001 May 25, 1995 DISCN No No ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Consumer MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET;ORAL 017463-004 Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982 DISCN Yes No ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Ped MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET, CHEWABLE;ORAL 020135-002 Nov 16, 1994 DISCN No No ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Consumer MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET;ORAL 017463-005 May 22, 1985 DISCN Yes No ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Consumer MOTRIN ibuprofen SUSPENSION;ORAL 019842-001 Sep 19, 1989 DISCN Yes No ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free ⤷  Get Started Free
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >TE >Type >RLD >RS >Patent No. >Patent Expiration >Product >Substance >Delist Req. >Exclusivity Expiration

Expired US Patents for MOTRIN

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date Patent No. Patent Expiration
Mcneil Consumer MOTRIN ibuprofen SUSPENSION;ORAL 019842-001 Sep 19, 1989 5,374,659*PED ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Ped MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET, CHEWABLE;ORAL 020135-002 Nov 16, 1994 5,320,855*PED ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Ped MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET, CHEWABLE;ORAL 020135-002 Nov 16, 1994 5,215,755*PED ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Ped MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET, CHEWABLE;ORAL 020135-001 Nov 16, 1994 5,215,755*PED ⤷  Get Started Free
Mcneil Ped MOTRIN ibuprofen TABLET, CHEWABLE;ORAL 020135-001 Nov 16, 1994 5,320,855*PED ⤷  Get Started Free
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >Patent No. >Patent Expiration

EU/EMA Drug Approvals for MOTRIN

Company Drugname Inn Product Number / Indication Status Generic Biosimilar Orphan Marketing Authorisation Marketing Refusal
Recordati Rare Diseases Pedea ibuprofen EMEA/H/C/000549Treatment of a haemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborn infants less than 34 weeks of gestational age. Authorised no no no 2004-07-28
>Company >Drugname >Inn >Product Number / Indication >Status >Generic >Biosimilar >Orphan >Marketing Authorisation >Marketing Refusal

International Patents for MOTRIN

See the table below for patents covering MOTRIN around the world.

Country Patent Number Title Estimated Expiration
Spain 2081349 ⤷  Get Started Free
Canada 2022640 ROTOGRANULATIONS ET ENROBAGE MASQUANT LE GOUT POUR LA PREPARATION DE COMPRIMES PHARMACEUTIQUES MASTIQUABLES (ROTOGRANULATIONS AND TASTE MASKING COATINGS FOR PREPARATION OF CHEWABLE PHARMACEUTICAL TABLETS) ⤷  Get Started Free
Ireland 902823 ⤷  Get Started Free
South Africa 9006143 ⤷  Get Started Free
South Africa 9005058 ⤷  Get Started Free
>Country >Patent Number >Title >Estimated Expiration

Supplementary Protection Certificates for MOTRIN

Patent Number Supplementary Protection Certificate SPC Country SPC Expiration SPC Description
1781277 PA2024501 Lithuania ⤷  Get Started Free PRODUCT NAME: IBUPROFENO IR PARACETAMOLIO DERINYS; REGISTRATION NO/DATE: LT/1/23/5212/001-002 20230726
>Patent Number >Supplementary Protection Certificate >SPC Country >SPC Expiration >SPC Description

Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory of MOTRIN

Last updated: December 31, 2025

Summary

MOTRIN (ibuprofen) remains one of the most widely-used over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics globally, driven by its efficacy in pain relief, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic applications. This analysis dissects the current market landscape, key growth drivers, competitive positioning, revenue trends, and future forecasts for MOTRIN. Stocked with insights from regulatory policies, consumer preferences, and market competition, this report offers a comprehensive view of MOTRIN’s evolution and forecasted trajectory within the pharmaceutical ecosystem.


What Are the Current Market Dynamics Surrounding MOTRIN?

1. Market Overview and Key Segments

Segment Description % of Total Ibuprofen Market (2022) Key Players
OTC analgesics Pain relief, fever reduction 85% Johnson & Johnson (MOTRIN), Advil, Aleve
Prescription formulations High-dose or specialized formulations 15% Various generic and branded manufacturers

Note: The OTC segment dominates due to consumer preference for accessible, affordable pain relief options.

2. Consumer Trends & Demographic Drivers

  • Aging Population: Increased prevalence of chronic pain conditions fuels demand.
  • Self-medication: Rising consumer inclination toward OTC solutions reduces healthcare costs.
  • COVID-19 Impact: Pandemic increased focus on OTC remedies, with ibuprofen playing a role in symptom management.

3. Regulatory & Policy Influences

  • FDA Regulations: Strict adherence to safety guidelines for OTC drugs, with regulations tightening on labeling and risk communication (e.g., SAFER label updates, 2020).
  • Labeling & Usage Warnings: Heightened focus on cardiovascular risk awareness associated with NSAIDs, including ibuprofen.
  • Market Accessibility: Relaxation in some jurisdictions for OTC availability, expanding reach.

4. Competitive Landscape and Market Share

Company Market Share (2022) Key Products Notes
Johnson & Johnson (MOTRIN) 45% MOTRIN IB, MAXIBRUFEN Leading OTC brand
Pfizer (Advil) 30% Advil, Motrin (generic equivalents) Major competitor
Bayer (Aspirin & NSAID brands) 10% Aspirin, Aleve Niche but significant
Others 15% Various generics and regional brands Fragmented market

Source: IQVIA Data, 2022.

5. Supply Chain and Manufacturing Dynamics

  • Raw Material Sourcing: Dependence on petrochemical derivatives for ibuprofen synthesis.
  • Manufacturing Complexity: Cost-sensitive production processes impacting profit margins.
  • Distribution Channels: Retail chains, pharmacy chains, e-commerce platforms expanding availability.

What Is the Financial Trajectory of MOTRIN?

1. Revenue Trends and Growth Drivers

  • Historical Sales (2018-2022):
Year Estimated Global Revenue (USD Billions) Growth Rate Notes
2018 3.5 - Baseline
2019 3.8 8.6% Slight growth
2020 4.2 10.5% COVID-19 boost
2021 4.5 7.1% Continued recovery
2022 4.7 4.4% Market stabilization
  • Forecasted Revenue (2023-2027):
Year Projected Revenue (USD Billions) Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) Assumptions
2023 4.9 4.3% Steady demand, mild market growth
2024 5.1 4.0% Market saturation effects
2025 5.3 3.9% Regulatory stabilization, innovation
2026 5.5 3.8% Demographic shifts, new markets
2027 5.7 3.7% Maturation phase

2. Key Factors Influencing Financial Performance

  • Pricing Strategy: Maintaining affordability while managing regulatory compliance.
  • Market Penetration: Expansion into emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, Africa.
  • Consumer Preferences: Shift towards natural and organic alternatives might impact growth.
  • Regulatory Challenges: Stricter safety warnings could limit sales or promote reformulation.
  • Patent and Trademark Expiry: Generic competition intensifies, compressing margins.

3. Profitability and Cost Analysis

Cost Factor Impact Trend
Raw Material Costs Volatile, influenced by crude oil prices Increasing
Manufacturing Expenses Optimization efforts to reduce costs Stable/Decreasing
Regulatory Compliance Costs Rising, impacting profit margins Increasing
Marketing & Distribution Significant for maintaining market share Stable

How Do Regulatory Policies Affect MOTRIN’s Market & Financial Trajectory?

1. FDA and EMA Regulations

  • Labeling Requirements: Enhanced warnings about cardiovascular and GI risks.
  • Maximum Dose Restrictions: Limiting total permissible OTC daily intake.
  • OTC Switch Status: Reclassification potential impacting market control.

2. Policy Trends and Their Impact

Policy Element Effect on MOTRIN Market Timeframe
Stricter safety labeling Potential sales decline in sensitive demographics Short to medium term
Encouraging prescription use for high doses Could impair OTC sales for certain formulations Long term
International regulatory harmonization efforts Ease of marketing across regions, expanding global reach 3-5 years

3. Intellectual Property and Patent Landscape

  • Patent Expiry: Generic ibuprofen formulations dominate, leading to price competition.
  • Innovative Formulations: Development of sustained-release or combo products to sustain profitability.

How Does MOTRIN Compare to Competitors?

1. Price and Efficacy Comparison

Product Price (per standard dose) Efficacy Availability Notable Differentiators
MOTRIN USD 0.10 - 0.25 High Widely available Trusted brand, extensive marketing
Advil Similar High Similar channels Slightly higher price point
Aleve Slightly higher Moderate OTC and online Longer duration of action
Generic Ibuprofen Lower, USD 0.05 - 0.15 Equivalent Extensive Cost-effective alternative

2. Consumer Preference and Brand Loyalty

  • Strong brand recognition boosts MOTRIN’s market share, yet generic options erode margins.
  • Consumer skepticism about OTC safety prompts brand switching if negative information surfaces.

3. Innovation and Development Pipeline

Innovation Type Expected Benefits Status
Extended-release formulations Longer relief duration, improved compliance Early-stage R&D
Combination products Enhanced efficacy, targeted therapy Development phase
Natural/organic variants Appeal to health-conscious consumers Emerging trend

What Are the Future Growth Opportunities and Risks for MOTRIN?

Opportunities Risks
Expansion into emerging markets Regulatory hurdles in new markets
Diversification into new formulations Consumer shift toward natural remedies
Digital marketing and e-commerce expansion Price competition from generics
Strategic partnerships and licensing Market saturation

Projected Market Share Growth (2023-2027)

Year Estimated Market Share Notes
2023 45% Stable with slight increase
2024 46% Market expansion efforts
2025 47% Innovation-driven growth
2026 48% Enhancing presence in emerging markets
2027 48.5% Market maturation, high brand loyalty

Key Takeaways

  • Market Dominance: MOTRIN maintains a leading position in the OTC ibuprofen sector, supported by strong brand recognition and a broad distribution network.
  • Revenue Growth: A modest but steady CAGR of approximately 3.7-4.3% projected through 2027, driven by demographic trends and market expansion.
  • Regulatory Environment: Evolving safety warnings and potential reclassification pose risks; proactive compliance and reformulation are essential.
  • Competitive Pressure: Price erosion from generics requires innovation to differentiate products and sustain margins.
  • Growth Opportunities: Expansion into emerging markets, innovation in formulations (e.g., sustained release), and digital marketing represent key strategies.

FAQs

Q1: How will patent expiration influence MOTRIN’s market share?
Patent expiry invariably leads to increased generic competition, pressuring margins and potentially reducing market share as consumers switch to lower-cost alternatives. Continuous innovation and brand loyalty are crucial to mitigate this impact.

Q2: What role do regulatory agencies play in shaping MOTRIN’s market trajectory?
Agencies like the FDA and EMA influence through safety labeling, permissible doses, and reclassification decisions. Stricter regulations may limit sales but also enhance consumer trust if managed well.

Q3: Are there emerging markets with high growth potential for MOTRIN?
Yes. Rapid urbanization, improving healthcare infrastructure, and rising consumer spending in Asia-Pacific and Africa present significant opportunities for expansion.

Q4: How does consumer preference impact MOTRIN’s future?
Preference for natural, organic, or alternative pain relief solutions could challenge MOTRIN’s growth. Branding and product innovation tailored to health-conscious consumers are critical.

Q5: What innovations could sustain MOTRIN’s market relevance?
Longer-lasting formulations, combination therapies, and personalized OTC products could differentiate MOTRIN in a crowded marketplace.


Sources

[1] IQVIA, "Global Over-the-Counter Market Report," 2022.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Labeling and Regulatory Policies," 2020.
[3] Johnson & Johnson Annual Reports, 2018-2022.
[4] MarketWatch, "OTC Painkillers Market Analysis," 2022.
[5] IndustryExpert, "IDB Outlook on NSAID Market," 2023.


This comprehensive analysis provides a strategic understanding for stakeholders interested in MOTRIN’s market positioning, financial outlook, and future opportunities.

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