Market Analysis and Price Projections for Emgality (NDC: 00002-2377)
Market Overview of Migraine Drugs
The migraine drugs market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in treatment processes and the increasing prevalence of migraines. As of 2023, the migraine drugs market size was valued at US$ 4.2 billion and is projected to reach US$ 6.3 billion by 2032, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during the forecast period[1].
Role of Emgality in the Market
Emgality, developed by Eli Lilly, is a key player in this market. It is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitor, approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults and for the treatment of cluster headaches. Emgality has been well-received due to its clinical efficacy and convenient administration via a pre-filled syringe or autoinjector pen[1].
Market Reception and Sales
Since its approval in September 2018, Emgality has shown impressive sales figures. In 2021, Emgality generated $435 million in the US and $577 million globally. Analysts forecast peak sales of $1.27 billion by 2025, indicating strong market reception and growth potential[1].
Pricing and Cost
The pricing of Emgality is significant, with the average pharmacy cost for a 120 mg/mL syringe or pen ranging around $680 per unit as of December 2024. For a 300 mg dose (100 mg/mL x 3 syringes), the cost is approximately $567.92 per unit[1].
Competitive Landscape
Emgality competes in a crowded market with other CGRP inhibitors such as Amgen’s Aimovig and Teva’s Ajovy. Despite this competition, Emgality has managed to carve out a significant market share due to its clinical results, convenient administration, and favorable reimbursement scenarios. The drug received coverage from major pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) like Express Scripts, OptumRx, and CVS, further boosting its market presence[1].
Factors Driving Market Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the migraine drugs market:
Advancements in Novel Therapies
The introduction of CGRP inhibitors like Emgality has revolutionized migraine treatment, offering patients more effective and personalized treatment options[1].
Increasing Prevalence
The high prevalence of migraines globally, affecting around 12% of the population, presents a significant market opportunity[1].
Favorable Reimbursement Scenarios
Positive reimbursement policies for migraine medications, especially for CGRP inhibitors, have facilitated patient access and driven sales[1].
Awareness and Research
Increased awareness initiatives and availability of research funds have contributed to the growth of the market[1].
International Price Comparisons
In comparison to other high-income countries, U.S. prices for prescription drugs, including Emgality, are significantly higher. U.S. prices for brand-name drugs are nearly 422% of prices in other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Even after adjusting for rebates and discounts, U.S. prices remain substantially higher than those in other countries[4].
Future Outlook
The future outlook for Emgality and the broader migraine drugs market is promising:
Market Growth
The migraine drugs market is expected to continue growing, driven by the increasing prevalence of migraines and advancements in treatment options[1].
Competitive Dynamics
The market will remain competitive with multiple CGRP inhibitors available, but Emgality’s strong clinical results and convenient administration are likely to maintain its market share[1].
Cost Management
Efforts to manage costs through discounts, insurance coverage, and manufacturer programs will continue to be crucial for patient access and market growth. Initiatives such as state-level drug affordability boards and international reference pricing could play a role in managing costs in the future[2][4].
Regulatory and Transparency Efforts
Regulatory efforts, such as Oregon's Drug Price Transparency Program, aim to provide accountability for prescription drug pricing. These programs require manufacturers to report price increases and new high-cost drugs, and they monitor costs to consumers. However, there are still gaps in transparency, particularly regarding the interactions and financial negotiations between pharmaceutical supply chain entities[2].
Key Takeaways
- Market Size and Growth: The migraine drugs market is projected to reach US$ 6.3 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period.
- Emgality’s Role: Emgality is a significant player in the market, known for its clinical efficacy and convenient administration.
- Pricing and Cost: The cost of Emgality is high without insurance, but various savings options and insurance coverage help manage the expenses.
- Future Outlook: The market is expected to grow, driven by increasing prevalence and advancements in treatments.
FAQs
Q: What is Emgality used for?
Emgality is used for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults and for the treatment of cluster headaches. It is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitor[1].
Q: How much does Emgality cost?
The average pharmacy cost for Emgality ranges around $680 per unit for a 120 mg/mL syringe or pen, and approximately $567.92 per unit for a 300 mg dose (100 mg/mL x 3 syringes)[1].
Q: What are the key factors driving the growth of the migraine drugs market?
The key factors include advancements in novel therapies, increasing prevalence of migraines, favorable reimbursement scenarios, and increased awareness and research[1].
Q: How does Emgality compare to other CGRP inhibitors in the market?
Emgality competes with other CGRP inhibitors like Amgen’s Aimovig and Teva’s Ajovy but has maintained a significant market share due to its clinical results, convenient administration, and favorable reimbursement scenarios[1].
Q: What regulatory efforts are in place to manage prescription drug prices?
Regulatory efforts such as state-level drug price transparency programs and international reference pricing initiatives aim to provide accountability and manage costs. These programs require manufacturers to report price increases and monitor costs to consumers[2][4].
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch: "Drug prices and trends for EMGALITY"
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services: "Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations"
- TFS Clinical Research: "5 Predictions for the Biopharma and Biotech Industries in 2025"
- ASPE: "International Prescription Drug Price Comparisons: Estimates Using IQVIA MIDAS Data"
- NDC List: "NDC Package 0002-2377-11 Emgality"
