Global Opioid Analgesics Market Assessment, By Product Type [Codeine, Morphine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Methadone, Meperidine, Fentanyl, Hydromorphone, Oxymorphone, Dextromethorphan, Tramadol, Others], By Application [Chronic Pain, Acute Pain], By Route of Administration [Oral, Injectable, Others], By Distribution Channel [Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, Others], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F

Global opioid analgesics market is projected to witness a CAGR of 4.10% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 46.86 billion in 2024 to USD 64.48 billion in 2032. The market demand for opioid analgesic pharmaceutical products is anticipated to thrive in the forecast period for multimodal pain when non-opioid drugs or physical therapy is ineffective for treating chronic pain issues. The quick onset of action and high efficacy of various treatment options available in the market are increasing the demand for opioid analgesics.

Report Attribute	Details
Base Year of the Analysis	2024
Historical Period	2018-2023
Forecast Period	2025-2032
Projected Growth Rate	CAGR of 4.10% between 2025 and 2032
Revenue Forecast in 2032	USD 64.48 billion

Also, an increase in the prevalence of chronic pain conditions such as cancer, arthritis, and lower back pain, heart disease has led to an increase in demand for opioid analgesics in the market. Advancements in new formulations by resolving safety concerns around the use of opioids and abuse-deterrent formulation technology are boosting the growth of the market. Over the past few years, drug misuse has emerged as a major global health concern. The prescription of opioids for pain relief has increased substantially and so has the rate of abuse for them. Controlling drug addiction and prescription opioid overdoses can be effectively managed using abuse-deterrent formations. The FDA is pushing for the development of abuse-deterrent formulations (ADFs) for prescription opioids in an effort to address the opioid abuse problem. The government acknowledges that while abuse-deterrent opioids are a step toward potentially less abusive medicines, they are neither abuse nor addiction-proof. For instance, In February 2024, Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC announced the launch of Fentanyl Citrate Injection, USP 25mcg/0.5mL and 50mcg/mL. As noted by requirements, it is used for anesthesia periods, premedication, induction, and maintenance in the immediate postoperative period. The injection is also used as an adjunct to narcotic analgesia in general or regional anesthesia.

Increasing Prevalence of Cancer to Boost the Market

Chronic pain is present in 20% to 50% of cancer patients. About 80% of advanced-stage cancer patients have moderate to severe pain. One meta-analysis of pooled data from 52 studies found that more than half of the participants reported pain. Cancer pain and pain flares are more likely to occur in younger patients than older patients. Advances in understanding the biological mechanisms of cancer-related pain have led to better-targeted and more effective use of opioids. The global burden of cancer has grown recently, so research into finding new therapies and improving patient outcomes has increased. The increase in the incidence of cancer directly relates to a greater need for pain management strategies that are efficacious. The major driver for the opioid analgesic market is increased research and development initiatives being taken for the treatment of cancer. It is a reality that an increase in knowledge of cancer-related pain is substantially increasing the use of opioid analgesics for pain management. This trend underlines the role of pain relief in cancer care, highlighting a need for providers to balance opioid use with strategies for minimizing misuse and dependence, thus leading to safer and more effective patient care. Researchers are increasingly focusing on developing new therapies and evaluating their efficacy and safety.

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Pain

The growth of the opioid market is driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic pain, which is affecting millions of individuals globally with conditions such as chronic conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain, are increasingly becoming common, and patients are seeking effective pain management solutions to enhance their quality of life. With the increasing prevalence of chronic pain, coupled with an aging population more likely to suffer from this condition, healthcare providers turn to opioids as the first line of treatment. Continued research and development for opioid formulations is also being undertaken to optimize their efficacy with minimal side effects, therefore fueling additional growth in the market. The ongoing development of opioid formulations continues toward improved efficacy but with reduced potential side effects and related dependency risks. These advances address the dual considerations of efficacy and safety in pain relief, patients and providers towards the management of chronic pain with opioids as part of treatment.

In August 2022, Adalvo Limited announced that the company had acquired its first branded product, Onsolis, after finalizing a deal with a leading US-based specialty pharmaceutical company. The brand is an opioid analgesic used in the management of persistent breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are already receiving and tolerant to opioid therapy for their underlying cancer pain. The ongoing development of opioid formulations continues toward improved efficacy but with reduced potential side effects and related dependency risks. These advances address the dual considerations of efficacy and safety in pain relief, nudging patients and providers toward the management of chronic pain with opioids as part of treatment.

Advancements in ADFs Support Market Expansion

To counter the use and abuse of opioids and to limit the utilization of opioids for legitimate purposes, various pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing ADFs. These formulations are designed to make drug misuse cumbersome, and make it difficult for the consumer to crush, inject, or dissolve the drugs. ADF opioids have been introduced by various pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer Inc. and Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc., with regulatory approvals and physician preference. The marketing of safer opioids is critical for the continued market growth as it addresses concerns associated with opioid dependency. Different governments and regulatory bodies, in their attempts to promote the use of ADF opioids, are encouraging pharmaceutical companies to heavily invest in research and development activities to bring forth the next generation of formulations. The growing awareness of safer opioid alternatives among both patients and physicians is driving the demand for ADFs and providing lucrative growth opportunities for the market.

Codeine Segment to Dominate the Opioid Analgesics Market

The codeine market is likely to lead in the opioid analgesics market in view of its widespread use and application in clinical conditions for pain management. Codeine is a naturally occurring opioid and is most often preferred as an alternative due to its effective analgesic properties along with relatively lower severity of side effects compared with stronger opioids, making it a popular medicine for the treatment of mild to moderate pain, especially in outpatient settings. In addition, the availability of codeine in several formulations involving combination products with acetaminophen or aspirin makes it more attractive to prescribers and patients. The increasing prevalence of chronic pain disorders and the demand for better pain relief interventions will keep supporting this segment. Continued studies and development of codeine as the best therapeutic agent ensure that the opioid analgesics market will be dominated by codeine. There are several studies that are currently undergoing on Codeine, for instance, the National Superiority Clinical Trial to assess the combination of fixed dosage of Dipyrone and Codeine comparing the isolated use of components in the control of moderate to severe pain after open pelvic-abdominal surgery.

North America Dominates the Opioid Analgesics Market

North America dominates the opioid analgesics markets due to the high prevalence of chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and postoperative surgical pain. Chronic pain is a condition that affects the daily life of many adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 21% of the U.S. population, i.e., 51.6 million adults’ population, is affected by chronic pain, and 6.9% (17.1 million people) experienced severe chronic pain (i.e., chronic pain that causes significant limitation of daily activities), with a higher prevalence among non-Hispanic American Indians or Alaskans. According to CDC reports that analyzed data from the National Health Interview Survey, chronic pain lasts for at least three months and usually affects the ability to function and work. In contrast, high-impact chronic pain occurs when chronic pain significantly reduces the activities of daily living. Chronic pain is a major public health problem in the United States. The healthcare cost of chronic pain in America is estimated at USD 635 billion per year, according to a JAMA Network Open article.

Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region over the forecast period. The rising prevalence of chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, cancer, and post-surgical pain, is a significant driver for the growth of Asia-Pacific opioid analgesics market. The demand for effective pain management solutions is increasing with an aging population across countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. The increasing number of cancer cases across the region is also driving the demand for opioid-based pain relief. In countries such as China, India, and Australia, cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality, and opioids are a crucial component of oncology care, particularly for managing end-of-life and palliative care pain.

China is anticipated to hold the major share in the Asia-Pacific opioid analgesics market owing to the country's aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic pain conditions are driving demand for effective pain management solutions. In 2024, approximately 3,246,625 new cancer cases and 1,699,066 cancer-related deaths occurred in China. Additionally, rising healthcare expenditure and improved access to medical services have expanded the availability of opioid analgesics. China's growing middle class and changing lifestyles also contribute to the increased use of these medications. Furthermore, advancements in pharmaceutical technology, including the development of abuse-deterrent formulations, have enhanced the safety and appeal of opioid analgesics. Overall, the combination of demographic trends, healthcare improvements, and innovation in drug formulations is fueling the expansion of the opioid analgesics market in China.

Future Market Scenario (2025-2032F)

In the opioid analgesic market over the past 10 years, considerable fluctuations have been observed mainly due to the increase in opioid crisis and regulatory control. Nevertheless, future scenarios will be formed through the development of healthcare practice, regulating the framework and achievements in pain management. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in developing abuse-deterrent formulations. These innovations can restore trust between doctors and patients and increase market acceptance. The opioid analgesics market is expected to remain stable, with growth potential in certain areas due to innovation and a growing understanding of pain management. Companies that focus on developing safer opioid formulations and alternative pain management solutions are likely to see growth, which is anticipated to drive the opioid analgesics market. Collaboration with regulators and healthcare providers is key to shaping a responsible future for the opioid analgesics market.

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Impact of the U.S. Tariff on Global Opioid Analgesics Market

The imposition of the new tariffs on various pharmaceutical imports are expected to cause significant disruptions to the supply chains, influence pricing strategies, and propelling production costs. Additionally, the increased costs are expected to be passed on to the patients, resulting in high prices and reduced accessibility of the product. Meanwhile, disruptions in supply chains are expected to result in shortage of essential opioid analgesics, impacting the quality of care provided to the patient population.

In response to the tariffs, various pharmaceutical companies are focusing on reshoring their production to the United States, seeking exemption for critical medications, and diversifying their supply chains. Meanwhile, potential retaliatory tariffs from the affected regions could increase complications in the pharmaceutical landscape, affecting the availability of essential pharmaceutical products. 

Report Scope

“Opioid Analgesics Market Assessment, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F”, is a comprehensive report by Markets and Data, providing in-depth analysis and qualitative and quantitative assessment of the current state of global opioid analgesics market, industry dynamics, and challenges. The report includes market size, segmental shares, growth trends, opportunities, and forecast between 2025 and 2032. Additionally, the report profiles the leading players in the industry, mentioning their respective market share, business models, competitive intelligence, etc.

Report Attribute	Details
Segments Covered	Type, Product, Application, Route of Administration, Distribution Channel
Regions Covered	North America, Europe, South America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa
Key Companies Profile	Pfizer Inc., Sanofi S.A., Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd., Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited, Hikma Pharmaceuticals, Purdue Pharma L.P., Mundipharma Pty Limited, Endo International Plc, Protega Pharmaceuticals Inc., Mallinckrodt Company
Customization Scope	15% free report customization with purchase
Pricing and Purchase Options	Avail the customized purchase options to fulfill your precise research needs
Delivery Format	PDF and Excel through email (subject to the license purchased)

In the report, global opioid analgesics market has been segmented into the following categories: 

• By Product type
  • Codeine
  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydrocodone
  • Methadone
  • Meperidine
  • Fentanyl
  • Hydromorphone
  • Oxymorphone
  • Dextromethorphan
  • Tramadol
  • Others
• By Application
  • Chronic Pain
  • Acute Pain
• By Route of administration
  • Oral
  • Injectable
  • Others
• By Distribution Channel
  • Hospitals Pharmacy
  • Retail Pharmacy
  • Others
• By Region
  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia-Pacific
  • South America
  • Middle East and Africa

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Significant market activities have been reported in recent times, including distribution agreements and acquisitions alongside several product launches. In May 2023 Trevena             Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, announced that its partner, Jiangsu Nhwa Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a China-based pharmaceutical company, has received approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for Olinvyk (oliceridine). Olinvyk is an opioid agonist indicated to manage pain severe enough to require an intravenous opioid analgesic in adult patients whose alternative treatments are inadequate.

In April 2023, Rusan Pharma Ltd. submitted a proposal to the commission for approval to manufacture and market methadone oral solution 1 mg/ml, as well as an application for a BA/BE research and clinical trial exemption. Methadone oral solution 1 mg/ml is already approved product.  But this firm is required to submit BA/BE study protocol for further review by the committee.           

Pfizer invested USD 743 million in its manufacturing facility in Singapore, focusing on the production of critical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) used in antibiotics and oncology and pain management medications in July 2024. This investment aims to enhance Pfizer's capacity to manufacture APIs, ensuring a stable supply of essential ingredients for its drug portfolio. The Singapore site will play a crucial role in Pfizer's global supply chain, strengthening its ability to meet the growing demand for medicines.

Key Players Operating in Global Opioid Analgesics Market are:

• Pfizer Inc.
• Sanofi S.A.
• Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd.
• Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited
• Hikma Pharmaceuticals
• Purdue Pharma L.P.
• Mundipharma Pty Limited
• Endo International Plc
• Protega Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Mallinckrodt Company

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