Inhalable Drugs Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Suspension Aerosol, Solution Aerosol, Dry Powder Formulation and Others), By Application (Respiratory Diseases and Non-respiratory Diseases) and Insights and Forecast to 2031

Updated On: 06 May 2024

INHALABLE DRUGS MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW

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The global inhalable drugs market size was USD 21830 million in 2020 and the market is projected to touch USD 27980 million by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period.

Inhaled drugs, commonly referred to as "inhalants," are a class of chemicals that people inhale into their lungs to get high. This is frequently done by young individuals or those who lack the financial means to acquire more expensive alcoholic beverages. The growing prevalence of pulmonary disorders has provided enormous prospects in the global market for inhalable medications. The usage of inhalation devices by individuals with breathing problems is not a new occurrence. As a result, the market for inhalable medications has been steadily growing.

COVID-19 Impact: Advent of COVID-19 Increased Demand for Respiratory Medications Upgraded the Market Growth

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The demand for inhalable drugs, particularly those used to manage respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may have increased due to the respiratory nature of COVID-19. Patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions may have been more vulnerable to severe outcomes from the virus, leading to a higher demand for relevant medications. The pharmaceutical industry globally has been actively involved in research and development related to COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. This might have diverted some resources and attention away from non-COVID medications, potentially impacting the pace of innovation in the inhalable drugs market.

LATEST TRENDS

"Ongoing Innovation and Trend Towards Personalized Medicine to Elevate the Market Share"

Regulatory support for innovation in the inhalable drugs market is a key catalyst for opportunities. Favorable regulatory environments that encourage and facilitate the development of novel inhalable drug therapies foster innovation and streamline approval processes. This support allows pharmaceutical companies to navigate regulatory pathways more efficiently, bringing advanced inhalable drugs to market sooner. Regulatory backing not only ensures the safety and efficacy of these innovative treatments but also stimulates research and development investment, creating a conducive environment for market growth and expansion.

The trend towards personalized medicine further amplifies opportunities in the inhalable drugs market. Tailoring inhalable drug therapies to individual patient characteristics enhances treatment precision and efficacy. With advancements in diagnostics and genetic profiling, inhalable drugs can be customized to address specific patient needs, optimizing therapeutic outcomes. This personalized approach aligns with evolving healthcare trends, creating a unique market niche and positioning inhalable drugs as a forefront solution in the era of precision medicine.

INHALABLE DRUGS MARKET SEGMENTATION

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• By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into suspension aerosol, solution aerosol, dry powder formulation and others.

Suspension Aerosols: Suspension aerosols consist of finely divided solid or liquid drug particles suspended in a propellant or a mixture of propellants. The drug particles are typically suspended in a liquid medium, and the aerosol is propelled by a gas (commonly a hydrofluoroalkane or HFA). This type allows for the delivery of drugs that may not dissolve well in propellants. It can provide a sustained release of the drug and is often used for respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Solution Aerosols: Solution aerosols contain the drug in a dissolved form in the propellant. The drug is dissolved in the propellant, resulting in a clear solution. The aerosol is propelled by a gas. Solution aerosols are generally more stable than suspension aerosols and may provide a more consistent dose. They are often used for drugs that readily dissolve in the chosen propellant.

Dry Powder Formulations: Dry powder formulations consist of micronized drug particles that are usually mixed with carrier particles (e.g., lactose) to facilitate dispersion. The drug is in a powdered form, and the patient inhales the powder using a dry powder inhaler (DPI). No propellant is needed for these formulations. Dry powder formulations are often preferred for their stability and lack of propellants. They are suitable for delivering a wide range of drugs, including those sensitive to propellant formulations.

• By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into respiratory diseases and non-respiratory diseases.

Inhalable Drugs in Respiratory Diseases:  Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and combination therapy are frequently administered by inhaler to manage and control asthma symptoms. Bronchodilators, such as short-acting and long-acting beta-agonists, anticholinergics, and corticosteroids, are frequently administered by inhaler for COPD therapy. Inhaled antibiotics, such as tobramycin, are used to treat respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Inhalable vasodilators, such as iloprost, can help relieve pulmonary hypertension symptoms. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants can be administered using inhalers to treat inflammation caused by interstitial lung disorders. In certain circumstances, inhaled medicines can be used to treat symptoms or halt the course of pulmonary fibrosis.

Inhalable Drugs in Non-Respiratory Diseases: Inhaled insulin formulations have been created to help treat diabetes. These formulations provide an alternative to standard insulin injections. Inhalable migraine medicines, such as dihydroergotamine (DHE), provide an alternative route of administration for rapid relief. Inhaled antibiotics can be used to treat systemic infections, especially if targeting the respiratory system is more effective than systemic dosing. Some hormone treatments, such as estradiol, have been turned into inhalable formulations for systemic administration. Inhaled formulations of analgesic medicines may be investigated for pain relief, giving a non-invasive alternative to injection. Researchers are investigating the use of inhalable medications for central nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

DRIVING FACTORS

"Rising Prevalance of Non-Respiratory Diseases to Stimulate the Market Growth"

The growing prevalence of non-respiratory disorders including Parkinson's and diabetes drives the demand for inhalable medications. The growing elderly population, as well as developments in inhalable medication therapy, are both expected to drive growth in the worldwide market. Furthermore, the procedure's increasing popularity due to its benefits over oral and parenteral medication delivery, such as direct injection into the body or bypassing the skin and mucous membranes, is driving market expansion.

"Remedial and Effective Therapies for Adverse Respiratory conditions to Aid the Market Growth"

The increasing frequency of respiratory disorders such as asthma and COPD is a key growth factor for the inhalable pharmaceuticals industry, boosting demand for effective respiratory treatments. Rising investment in research and growth efforts related to unmet medical requirements will drive the expansion of the inhalable pharmaceuticals market and create considerable potential prospects for the industry in the projected future.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

"Limited Drug Compatibility to Pose a Significant Threat and Limit the Market Growth"

Limited drug compatibility is a key barrier to the inhalable pharmaceuticals industry since not all medications are suited for inhalation administration. This constraint limits the types of medications that can be packaged as inhalable, possibly removing critical treatment choices. Pharmaceutical firms encounter difficulties in converting varied pharmaceuticals to inhalable formulations, which impedes the creation of a full portfolio of inhalable drugs. The limitation of restricted drug compatibility narrows the spectrum of inhalable drug applications, thereby affecting total market demand. Insurance coverage issues further limit market demand for inhalable medications. Insufficient reimbursement and insurance coverage for specific inhalable drugs might limit patient access, especially in areas with less complete healthcare coverage. However, the limited drug compatibility may restrict the global inhalable drugs market growth.

INHALABLE DRUGS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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"North America to Lead the Market owing to Innovative Medical Technologies "

North America held the greatest inhalable drugs market share. North America dominates the inhalable pharmaceuticals market due to improved healthcare infrastructure, a well-established pharmaceutical sector, and widespread acceptance of breakthrough medical technology. The area benefits from a strong regulatory environment that facilitates the development and marketing of inhalable pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, the market's popularity is aided by an increase in the frequency of respiratory disorders, rising healthcare costs, and an aging population. The presence of important pharmaceutical firms, as well as continuous research initiatives, strengthen North America's position as a leader in generating innovations and market growth in the inhalable medication industry.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

"Notably Prominent Market Players Shaping the Market through Innovation and Well Established Healthcare"

Major market actors are crucial for comprehending customer preferences and business dynamics because of their enormous market influence. The vast retail networks and online platforms of these large corporations enable shoppers to peruse a vast array of apparel options with ease. Product adoption has increased as a result of their well-known brand, strong worldwide presence, and enhanced customer confidence and loyalty. 

List of Market Players Profiled

• NanoDerma (U.S.)
• Pfizer (U.S.)
• Aradigm Corporation (U.S.)
• Alkerme (Ireland)
• Dura Pharmaceuticals (U.S.)
• AeroGen and Inhale Therapeutic Systems (Ireland).

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

• October 2023: Alkermes released preliminary results on ALKS 2680, an orexin 2 receptor (OXR2) agonist. ALKS 2680 is being developed for the treatment of narcolepsy.

REPORT COVERAGE

The research provides forecasts for future market expansion in addition to a comprehensive SWOT analysis. It examines a wide range of market classifications, potential uses, and important factors that fuel the market's expansion in order to determine how the industry develops over the next several years. By considering both historical turning points and current trends, the research offers a thorough picture of the market's components and highlights potential growth prospects.