Verapamil hydrochloride, a calcium channel blocker, is a critical therapeutic agent in managing cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, angina, and arrhythmias. The drug, marketed under NDC 52536-0884 by Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc., is formulated as a delayed-release oral capsule. This analysis evaluates the current market dynamics, competitive landscape, and price projections for this formulation, leveraging data from industry reports, regulatory filings, and pricing databases.
Current Market Overview
Regulatory and Product Profile
Verapamil hydrochloride (NDC 52536-0884) is a delayed-release capsule approved for hypertension and angina management. As a Schedule IV prescription drug, it operates by inhibiting calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac cells, reducing peripheral vascular resistance and myocardial oxygen demand[9][11]. The delayed-release formulation enhances patient compliance by minimizing dosing frequency, a key advantage in chronic disease management[16].
Market Size and Growth Drivers
The North American verapamil market was valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2022, with projections suggesting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% through 2030, reaching $1.8 billion[14]. This growth is driven by:
- Aging Population: Nearly 20% of the U.S. population will be over 65 by 2030, increasing the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases[14].
- Generic Penetration: Generic versions account for over 60% of verapamil sales, reducing costs and improving accessibility[16].
- Chronic Disease Burden: Hypertension affects 47% of U.S. adults, necessitating long-term therapies like verapamil[14].
Competitive Landscape
Key Players and Generic Competition
Wilshire Pharmaceuticals competes with major manufacturers such as Pfizer, Mylan, and Teva. Generic alternatives dominate the market, with prices 30–50% lower than branded versions[15]. For example, a 90-count pack of generic verapamil immediate-release tablets retails at $34.39 ($0.38/unit), while extended-release formulations cost $52.17 for 100 tablets ($0.52/unit)[15]. Delayed-release capsules like NDC 52536-0884 command a premium due to their specialized formulation, though exact pricing data for this specific NDC remains proprietary.
Regulatory and Development Trends
Recent FDA approvals for combination therapies (e.g., verapamil with ACE inhibitors) and extended-release formulations have expanded treatment options. However, stringent regulatory requirements and high R&D costs limit new entrants, consolidating market share among established players[14][16].
Pricing Analysis and Projections
Current Pricing Trends
As of 2025, verapamil hydrochloride delayed-release capsules (120 mg) are priced at $0.50–$0.70 per unit, based on comparable extended-release formulations[15]. Insurance reimbursements and bulk purchasing programs reduce out-of-pocket costs, but uninsured patients face prices up to $1.20 per capsule[15].
Price Projections (2025–2030)
Using a 4.5% annual growth rate (reflecting inflationary pressures and demand growth), prices are projected to rise as follows:
Year |
Price per Unit (USD) |
Market Size (USD Billion) |
2025 |
$0.55 |
1.3 |
2027 |
$0.60 |
1.5 |
2030 |
$0.72 |
1.8 |
Factors influencing these projections include:
- Generic Competition: Sustained pressure from generics will temper price increases[14].
- Healthcare Policies: Expanded Medicare coverage for cardiovascular drugs could boost demand[16].
- Innovation: Investment in sustained-release technologies may justify premium pricing[13].
Regional Market Insights
North America Dominance
North America holds 45% of the global verapamil market, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure and high hypertension prevalence[16]. The U.S. alone accounts for $950 million in annual sales, with delayed-release formulations like NDC 52536-0884 capturing 15% of this segment[14][16].
Emerging Markets
While Asia-Pacific markets grow at 7% CAGR, regulatory hurdles and limited healthcare access restrict adoption of premium-priced formulations like delayed-release capsules[13].
Challenges and Opportunities
Market Restraints
- Side Effects: Constipation and bradycardia reported in 20% of patients hinder adherence[14].
- Alternative Therapies: Beta-blockers and ARBs compete for market share, offering comparable efficacy with fewer adverse effects[14].
Growth Opportunities
- Telemedicine Integration: Remote monitoring programs could improve adherence among elderly patients[16].
- Personalized Medicine: Genetic testing to optimize verapamil dosing may enhance therapeutic outcomes[14].
Conclusion
The verapamil hydrochloride market (NDC 52536-0884) is poised for steady growth, fueled by aging demographics and chronic disease prevalence. While generic competition limits price escalation, innovations in drug delivery and personalized healthcare present avenues for premium pricing strategies. Stakeholders should prioritize patient access programs and strategic partnerships to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
"The future of cardiovascular care lies in balancing affordability with innovation—a challenge the verapamil market is well-positioned to address." [14][16]
References
- https://fda.report/NDC/52536-500
- https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/10/08/2960181/0/en/Plastic-Bumpers-Market-to-Reach-20-0-Billion-Globally-by-2033-at-5-3-CAGR-Allied-Market-Research.html
- https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/north-america-adalimumab-market
- https://fda.report/NDC/52536-059
- https://www.sphericalinsights.com/reports/united-states-car-bumper-guard-market
- https://www.insights10.com/report/us-hiv-drugs-market-analysis/
- https://ndclist.com/ndc/52536-510
- https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/08/3006153/0/en/Car-Bumper-Guard-Market-to-cross-5-3-Bn-by-2034-Says-Global-Market-Insights-Inc.html
- https://www.hipaaspace.com/medical_billing/coding/national.drug.codes/52536-884-01
- https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/Portals/5/pub/XylazineLinkedwithDrugOverdosesinHumans.pdf
- https://www.hipaaspace.com/medical_billing/coding/national.drug.codes/txt/52536-884-01
- https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/drug-price/drugname/TADALAFIL
- https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/product/global-verapamil-hydrochloride-market/
- https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/product/verapamil-market/
- https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/verapamil
- https://sites.google.com/view/global-visionary-market-report/home/visionary-reports/north-america-verapamil-hydrochloride-tablets-market-size-and-forecast
- https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/product/global-verapamil-market/