Global Analgesics Market - 2025 - 2032

The global Analgesics market reached US$ 56.02 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 80.50 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period 2025-2032.

Analgesics, commonly known as painkillers, are a class of drugs designed to relieve pain. They work by blocking pain signals in the body or by altering the way the brain interprets those signals. These medications come in various forms, ranging from over-the-counter to prescription medications. These medications can be taken orally, parenterally, and topically.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Increasing prevalence of chronic pain conditions

The increasing prevalence of chronic pain conditions is a significant driver for the global analgesics market. As populations around the world age, more people are living with long-term conditions such as arthritis, back pain, diabetes-related neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. These chronic pain conditions often require ongoing pain management, leading to a consistent demand for analgesics. For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021 an estimated 20.9% of U.S. adults (51.6 million persons) experienced chronic pain, and 6.9% (17.1 million persons) experienced high-impact chronic pain.

As awareness of the long-term effects of untreated pain increases, more people are seeking medical solutions, pushing up the demand for analgesics. This trend is especially evident in developed markets like North America and Europe, where healthcare access is more widespread, and patients are more likely to seek treatment for chronic conditions. For instance, according to the journal published by ScienceDirect in 2022, pain is a prevalent and persistent symptom, with prevalence rates up to 55% during cancer treatment. This increases the use and demand for analgesics which is expected to drive the overall market growth. As the prevalence of chronic pain continues to rise, the global analgesics market is expected to expand, with pharmaceutical companies focused on developing new, more effective, and safer pain relief options to meet this growing need.

Adverse effects and safety concerns associated with Analgesics

The growing awareness of the potential side effects of long-term use of pain medications is becoming a significant challenge for the analgesics market. As people are becoming more aware of the side effects associated with painkillers, like NSAIDs and opioids, many are becoming more hesitant to rely on them for extended periods. For example, prolonged use of NSAIDs can lead to serious issues like gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and an increased risk of heart problems. As a result, both patients and doctors are becoming more cautious when it comes to prescribing these drugs for ongoing pain management, which can decrease demand for these medications.

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Segment Analysis

The global analgesics market is segmented based on type, pain type, application, route of administration, distribution channel, and region.

Type:

Non-opioid analgesics segment is expected to dominate the global analgesics market share

Non-opioid analgesics segment holds a significant position in the global analgesics market. Non-opioid analgesics are expected to dominate the analgesics market due to growing concerns over the risks associated with opioid use, including addiction, overdose, and long-term side effects. As the awareness of these dangers rises, both patients and healthcare providers are increasingly seeking safer alternatives for pain management. Non-opioid analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and certain antidepressants or anticonvulsants used for pain relief, offer effective solutions without the same level of risk that opioids carry.

Several companies are initiating studies on the efficacy and safety of non-opioid analgesic drugs, which are leading to the manufacture of highly efficient drugs. For instance, in July 2024, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted its New Drug Application (NDA) submission for suzetrigine, an investigational, oral, selective NaV1.8 pain signal inhibitor to treat moderate-to-severe acute pain. Suzetrigine has the potential to be the first new class of medicine to treat acute pain in over twenty years.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the global analgesics market share

North America is expected to maintain a dominant position in the global analgesics market due to several key factors. One of the main reasons is the high demand for pain management solutions driven by a large population dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis, back pain, and migraines. According to the report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2022, an estimated 6.1 million people ages 12 or older reported having an opioid use disorder (OUD). This usage of analgesics is expected to increase with the rising number of disorders in the region.

The U.S., in particular, has one of the highest rates of chronic pain conditions, with millions of individuals suffering from ailments like arthritis, back pain, and migraines. According to the report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2024, it is stated that in 2022, the age-adjusted prevalence of diagnosed arthritis in adults was 18.9%. Women (21.5%) were more likely than men (16.1%) to have arthritis. This creates a consistently high demand for pain relief products. Additionally, North America has a robust healthcare system with wide access to medications, making it easier for patients to seek treatment. The region's advanced pharmaceutical research and development capabilities also play a crucial role in the creation of new and more effective analgesics, whether for acute or chronic pain.

The presence of a large number of pharmaceutical companies also contributes to the overall region's market growth. These companies invest heavily in the development of next-generation pain medications, including non-opioid alternatives, in response to the ongoing opioid crisis. For instance, in October 2024, Protega Pharmaceuticals announced that the FDA granted regulatory approval to their oxycodone hydrochloride immediate-release (IR) CII 10 mg tablets (Roxybond) for the management of severe pain that requires an opioid analgesic for which alternative treatments are insufficient, according to a news release from the company. This focus on developing safer, more effective pain management solutions is expected to hold the region in the dominant position.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the analgesics market include Bayer AG, Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd., Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC, Lupin, Cipla, Sanofi, AdvaCare Pharma, Wellona Pharma, and Montage Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. among others.

Key Developments

• In February 2024, Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma) announced the launch of COMBOGESIC IV (acetaminophen and ibuprofen) injection in the US. COMBOGESIC IV is an intravenous, opioid-free pain relief medicine that is a combination of 1,000 mg of acetaminophen and 300 mg of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
• In September 2024, Mankind Pharma's consumer business division introduced Nimulid Strong, a gel and spray formulation to address neck pain, a condition that impacts overall body function. With this launch, Mankind Pharma has entered the topical analgesic market.

Why Purchase the Report?

• Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials, and product pipelines, and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
• Product Performance & Market Positioning: Analyzes product performance, market positioning, and growth potential to optimize strategies.
• Real-World Evidence: Integrates patient feedback and data into product development for improved outcomes.
• Physician Preferences & Health System Impact: Examines healthcare provider behaviors and the impact of health system mergers on adoption strategies.
• Market Updates & Industry Changes: Covers recent regulatory changes, new policies, and emerging technologies.
• Competitive Strategies: Analyzes competitor strategies, market share, and emerging players.
• Pricing & Market Access: Reviews pricing models, reimbursement trends, and market access strategies.
• Market Entry & Expansion: Identifies optimal strategies for entering new markets and partnerships.
• Regional Growth & Investment: Highlights high-growth regions and investment opportunities.
• Supply Chain Optimization: Assesses supply chain risks and distribution strategies for efficient product delivery.
• Sustainability & Regulatory Impact: Focuses on eco-friendly practices and evolving regulations in healthcare.
• Post-market Surveillance: Uses post-market data to enhance product safety and access.
• Pharmacoeconomics & Value-Based Pricing: Analyzes the shift to value-based pricing and data-driven decision-making in R&D.

The Global Analgesics market report delivers a detailed analysis with 60+ key tables, more than 50 visually impactful figures, and 176 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

Target Audience 2023

• Manufacturers: Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotech Companies, Contract Manufacturers, Distributors, Hospitals.
• Regulatory & Policy: Compliance Officers, Government, Health Economists, Market Access Specialists.
• Technology & Innovation: AI/Robotics Providers, R&D Professionals, Clinical Trial Managers, Pharmacovigilance Experts.
• Investors: Healthcare Investors, Venture Fund Investors, Pharma Marketing & Sales.
• Consulting & Advisory: Healthcare Consultants, Industry Associations, Analysts.
• Supply Chain: Distribution and Supply Chain Managers.
• Consumers & Advocacy: Patients, Advocacy Groups, Insurance Companies.
• Academic & Research: Academic Institutions.