Generic Drugs Market Size (2024 - 2029)

Generic Drugs Market Analysis

The Generic Drugs Market size is estimated at USD 413.60 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 508.79 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.23% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

The rising prevalence of chronic diseases has spurred the demand for affordable medications, driving the market for generic drugs. Their lower cost, compared to branded alternatives, is a significant factor fueling their adoption in developing and developed economies. Additionally, as patents expire on blockbuster drugs, the market is witnessing a surge in the development of generic versions, further propelling market growth.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and various cancers require ongoing medication use. The high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases is propelling the growth of the generic drugs market. For instance, coronary artery disease has risen at a high rate in recent years. According to a report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in May 2023, coronary heart disease is the most prevalent form of heart disease. Approximately 5% of adults aged 20 years and older, or one in 20, are affected by coronary artery disease (CAD) globally.

According to the same source, every year, about 850,000 people in the United States have a heart attack. Among these, 605,000 have had their first heart attack, and over 200,000 people have already had a heart attack. This presents a substantial market opportunity for the generic drugs market, as the demand for cost-effective medications used during treatment contributes significantly to the growth of the generic drugs market.

Moreover, the increasing prevalence of diabetes cases worldwide is projected to drive the global rise in diabetes cases and is expected to propel market growth during the forecast period. For instance, according to a report published by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation in June 2023, the number of diabetes cases is projected to increase from 529 million in 2022 to 1.3 billion by 2050. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases is anticipated to drive the demand for effective treatments, thereby propelling the growth of the generic drug market during the forecast period. Furthermore, the implementation of various organic and inorganic strategies by key market players is expected to bolster market expansion. For instance, in May 2024, Gland Pharma Limited, Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., Long Grove Pharmaceuticals LLC, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited received approval for Edaravone Intravenous Solutions intended for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease which is a generic alternate of Radicava.

In conclusion, the increasing incidence of chronic diseases, combined with the strategic initiatives of leading industry players, is projected to significantly enhance the growth of the generic drugs market in the coming years.

However, stringent government regulations and a short supply of generic drugs in the market are expected to restrain market growth during the forecast period.

Generic Drugs Industry Segmentation

As per the scope of this report, a generic drug is a pharmaceutical drug that contains the same chemical substance as that used for the patented molecule. A generic drug is only allowed onto the market when its original drug's patent period expires. It is a molecule now allowed to be sold by all the players under a different brand name. The generic drugs market is segmented by route of administration, application, distribution channel, and geography. The route of administration segment is further divided into oral, topical, injectable, and other routes of administration. The application segment is further segmented into cardiovascular products, anti-infective drugs, central nervous system drugs, anti-cancer drugs, respiratory products, and other applications. The end user segment is further bifurcated into hospitals/clinics, retail pharmacies, and other distribution channels. The geography segment is further divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South America. The market report also covers the estimated market sizes and trends for 17 different countries across major regions globally. The report offers the value (USD) for the above segments.