Demulcent Eye Drops Market Size, Share, and Trends 2024 to 2033

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Size to Reach USD 4.04 Bn by 2033

The global demulcent eye drops market size was estimated at USD 2.25 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit around USD 4.04 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 6.04% from 2024 to 2033. The demulcent eye drops market is driven by factors such as the increasing prevalence of dry eye syndrome, rising awareness about ocular health, and advancements in formulation technology.

Key Takeaways

• North America dominated the market with the largest share of 35% in 2023.
• Asia Pacific is observed to witness the fastest rate of expansion during the forecast period.
• By active pharmaceutical ingredient type, the polyols segment held the largest share of the market in 2023.
• By drug formulation, the non-preservative based segment is observed to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period.
• By medication type, the over-the-counter segment held the largest share of the market in 2023.
• By distribution channel, the retail pharmacies segment held the largest share of the market in 2023.

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Size in the U.S. 2024 To 2033

The U.S. demulcent eye drops market size reached USD 590 million in 2023 and is anticipated to be worth around USD 1,060 million by 2033, poised to grow at a CAGR of 6.10% from 2024 to 2033.

North America held the highest market share of 35% in 2023. The region is observed to continue the trend in the upcoming years. North America has a significant prevalence of dry eye syndrome, a common condition that affects millions of people. Factors such as aging populations, increased screen time, environmental factors, and the widespread use of contact lenses contribute to the high incidence of dry eye symptoms in the region. As a result, there is a strong demand for demulcent eye drops to alleviate dryness and provide relief to affected individuals.

There is a growing awareness and emphasis on ocular health in North America, driven by initiatives from healthcare organizations, professional associations, and advocacy groups. Public education campaigns, screenings, and regular eye exams encourage individuals to prioritize their eye health and seek appropriate treatments, including demulcent eye drops, for common eye conditions.

Asia Pacific is observed to witness the fastest rate of expansion during the forecast period. There is a growing awareness of eye health and the importance of preventive measures among consumers in Asia Pacific. Public health campaigns, educational initiatives, and increased media coverage raise awareness about common eye conditions and the availability of treatments such as demulcent eye drops.

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Overview

Demulcent eye drops are a type of ophthalmic lubricant designed to relieve symptoms of conditions such as dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is defined as a disorder wherein the eyes are unable to lubricate themselves sufficiently via tears. The tears are either not produced adequately or evaporate too quickly, resulting in discomfort, redness, and irritation.

Demulcent eye drops contain ingredients such as glycerin, polysorbate, or carboxymethylcellulose, which form a protective layer over the surface of the eye, retaining moisture and providing relief from dryness. These eye drops are used to soothe dry, irritated eyes caused by various factors, including environmental conditions (such as wind, smoke, or dry air), prolonged screen time, contact lens wear, or certain medical conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome.

The application of demulcent eye drops helps to hydrate the eye surface, improve tear film stability, and reduce symptoms of dryness such as stinging, burning, and itching. They are typically applied as needed throughout the day, with a few drops instilled into the affected eye(s) to provide immediate relief and comfort. Demulcent eye drops serve as a valuable solution for managing dry eye symptoms, offering quick and effective relief by restoring moisture to the ocular surface and promoting comfort and well-being for individuals experiencing dryness and irritation.

Growth Factors

• The demulcent eye drops market is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. The increasing prevalence of dry eye syndrome worldwide due to factors such as aging populations, prolonged screen time, and environmental conditions like pollution and dry air is a significant growth factor. As more individuals seek relief from dry eye symptoms, the demand for demulcent eye drops, which provide effective lubrication and moisture to the eyes, continues to rise.
• Advancements in healthcare infrastructure and rising awareness about eye health are driving market growth. With improved access to healthcare services and increased education about the importance of ocular health, more people are seeking preventative and therapeutic solutions for conditions like dry eyes, contributing to the expanding demulcent eye drops market.
• Technological advancements in formulation and delivery methods are enhancing the efficacy and convenience of demulcent eye drops, further fueling market growth. Innovative ingredients and packaging designs are making these products more appealing to consumers and healthcare professionals alike.
• Strategic initiatives by pharmaceutical companies to expand their product portfolios and geographical reach are accelerating market growth. Through mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, companies are capitalizing on emerging opportunities in both established and emerging markets, driving increased sales and penetration for the demulcent eye drops market.
• The growing adoption of online retail channels for purchasing healthcare products is facilitating easier access to demulcent eye drops, particularly for consumers in remote or underserved areas. The convenience and wide availability of these products through online platforms are contributing to their growing popularity, promoting the expansion of the demulcent eye drops market.

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Scope

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Dynamics

Drivers

Technological advancements

Within the demulcent eye drops market, developments in formulation and delivery systems of eye drops have enhanced their efficacy and convenience for consumers. Advanced manufacturing processes have led to the creation of preservative-free formulations with improved biocompatibility, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and making them suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes. Additionally, innovations such as lipid-based formulations or nanoemulsions have improved the stability and retention of moisture on the ocular surface, resulting in longer-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.

• In January 2024, Lupin Ltd announced the official launch of bromfenac ophthalmic solution, 0.07%, in the United States following FDA approval. With exclusive first-to-file status, Lupin is granted a 180-day exclusivity period for this newly introduced product. The launch of bromfenac ophthalmic solution marks a significant advancement in the treatment options available for eye conditions, further solidifying Lupin’s position as a leading pharmaceutical company in the global market.

Growing awareness about eye health

There has been a significant increase in public awareness regarding the importance of eye health, driven by initiatives from healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and media campaigns. As a result, more individuals are seeking preventive measures and treatments for ocular conditions, including dry eye syndrome.  This heightened awareness has contributed to the growing demand for demulcent eye drops as a readily available and effective solution for managing dry eye symptoms, thereby driving market growth.

• In June 2023, Novaliq, under its Transformier Ocular Therapeutics division, celebrated the FDA approval of VEVYE™ (Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Solution) 0.1% for treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. As the first and only cyclosporine solution indicated specifically for dry eye disease, VEVYE™ demonstrated efficacy within four weeks of use. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the management of dry eye disease, offering patients a novel treatment option to alleviate symptoms and improve their ocular health.

Restraint

Regulatory challenges and compliance issues

Regulatory challenges and compliance issues pose significant restraints in the demulcent eye drop market. Stringent regulations governing the approval, manufacturing, and marketing of ocular lubricants require manufacturers to adhere to strict quality standards and safety guidelines. Compliance with regulatory requirements involve substantial investments in clinical trials, product testing, and documentation, which can increase production costs and limit market entry for smaller players.

Additionally, the complexity of regulatory frameworks across different regions and countries adds further challenges for manufacturers operating in the global market. These regulatory hurdles and compliance issues may hinder market growth and expansion opportunities for the demulcent eye drop market.

Opportunities

Rising knowledge about ophthalmic care

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in awareness regarding eye health and the importance of regular eye care practices. With the rise in digital device usage and environmental factors contributing to dry eye syndrome, there is a growing demand for effective solutions like demulcent eye drops.

Consumers are becoming more proactive in managing their eye health, leading to increased sales and market growth opportunities for the demulcent eye drops market. Additionally, advancements in marketing strategies and educational campaigns by pharmaceutical companies are further driving awareness and fostering a positive perception of demulcent eye drops among consumers.

Aging  population and prevalence of dry eye syndrome

The global population is aging, and with age comes an increased prevalence of dry eye syndrome. As the elderly population grows, there is a corresponding rise in the demand for ocular lubricants, and demulcent eye drops to alleviate symptoms associated with dry eyes. Moreover, factors such as hormonal changes, medication usage, and underlying health conditions contribute to dry eye syndrome, further fueling the demand for the demulcent eye drops market.

Pharmaceutical companies are capitalizing on this demographic shift by developing innovative formulations and targeting geriatric populations with specialized products tailored to their unique needs, thus expanding demulcent eye drops market opportunities in the demulcent eye drop segment.

Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Insights

The polyols segment held the largest share of the demulcent eye drops market in 2023. Polyols form a protective film over the ocular surface, which helps to retain moisture and prevent evaporation, providing long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. This sustained hydration is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic dry eye syndrome or those who experience frequent exposure to environmental irritants.

Many polyols are compatible with contact lenses and can be used safely by contact lens wearers to alleviate dryness and discomfort associated with lens wear. These eye drops provide relief without compromising the integrity or comfort of the contact lenses, making them a preferred choice for lens wearers.

Drug Formulation Insights

The non-preservative based segment is observed to grow at a significant rate in the demulcent eye drops market during the forecast period. With increasing awareness of the potential risks associated with preservatives in eye drop formulations, consumers are actively seeking out preservative-free options for their ocular health needs. This growing demand is driving manufacturers to develop and market non-preservative-based formulations to meet consumer preferences.

Non-preservative-based eye drops often provide a more comfortable application experience, as they do not contain harsh chemicals or additives that may cause stinging or discomfort upon installation. This can lead to greater patient satisfaction and compliance with treatment regimens.

Medication Insights

The over-the-counter segment dominated the demulcent eye drops market in 2023. Over-the-counter medications are generally sold without prescriptions. OTC demulcent eye drops are often more affordable than prescription alternatives, making them accessible to a broader population of consumers, including those without health insurance coverage or with high out-of-pocket expenses. The lower cost encourages regular use and compliance with treatment regimens, contributing to the segment's dominance.

OTC demulcent eye drops are readily available without the need for a prescription, allowing consumers to purchase them easily from pharmacies, drugstores, and online retailers. This accessibility and convenience make OTC eye drops a popular choice for individuals seeking immediate relief from dryness, irritation, or discomfort in the eyes.

Distribution Channel Insights

The retail pharmacies segment dominated the global demulcent eye drops market share of 53% in 2023. Retail pharmacies are easily accessible to consumers, with many located in convenient locations such as shopping centers, grocery stores, and standalone outlets. This accessibility makes it convenient for individuals to purchase demulcent eye drops while running errands or filling prescriptions.

Retail pharmacies typically offer a wide range of demulcent eye drops from various brands, formulations, and price points. This variety allows consumers to choose products that best suit their preferences, budget, and specific eye care needs.

Recent Developments

• In September 2023, Bausch + Lomb introduced Miebo, a perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution, to address the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in the United States. This innovative prescription eye drop targets tear evaporation directly, offering relief to individuals suffering from dry eye symptoms.
• In May 2023, Entod Pharmaceuticals unveiled CYCLOTEARS, an innovative eye drop, in India and several global markets. Utilizing the self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) technology, CYCLOTEARS is tailored to address inflammatory dry eye disease (DED) in patients.

Demulcent Eye Drops Market Companies

• Johnson and Johnson Services Inc.
• Alcon Inc., OASIsMedical
• Allegan(Abbvie inc)
• Prestige Consumer Healthcare lnc
• Santen Pharmaceutical Co.Ltd.
• Bausch Health Companies lnc.
• Aurolab, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co.,ltd.
• Sentiss Pharma Pt. Ltd.
• Sun PharmaceuticalIndustries Ltd.
• URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH

Segments Covered in the Report

By Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Type

• Cellulose Derivatives
• Dextran 70
• Polyols
• Polymers
• Others

By Drug Formulation

• Preservative Based
• Non-preservative Based

By Medication Type

• Over-the-counter (OTC)
• Prescription

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa