Dopamine Agonists Market - By Drug Type, By Indication, By Route of Administration, By Distribution Channel - Global Forecast 2025 - 2034

Dopamine Agonists Market Size

The global dopamine agonists market size was estimated at USD 2.9 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 3 billion in 2025 to USD 5.3 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period. The rising incidence of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and restless legs syndrome (RLS), coupled with advancement in drug development and increasing awareness of dopamine agonists, contribute to market growth.
 

According to the Parkinson's Foundation, nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson's disease (PD). This number is expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030. In addition, the incidence of Parkinson’s disease increases with age, but about 4% of people with PD are diagnosed before age 50. Thus, with growing awareness of diseases, an aging global population more susceptible to neurological disorders, and better early diagnosis, more patients are being diagnosed early. This results to higher treatment rates and increased demand for Parkinsons’ disease therapeutics such as dopamine agonists, thereby boosting market growth.
 

The market is also growing due to ongoing research and development activities and approval of new drug forms and delivery systems by regulatory authorities that improve treatment options and patient use. For example, in February 2025, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ONAPGO (apomorphine hydrochloride) injection, formerly known as SPN-830, as the first and only subcutaneous apomorphine infusion device for the treatment of motor fluctuations in adults with advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD).
 

Also, the strong pipeline of dopamine agonists as new treatments for various conditions contribute to market growth. For instance, in September 2024, AbbVie announced positive topline results from its main phase 3 TEMPO-1 trial for tavapadon as a monotherapy in early Parkinson's disease. Tavapadon is an investigational D1/D5 dopamine receptor partial agonist being studied as a once-daily treatment for Parkinson's disease. Also, drug companies are engaging in collaborations to advance research and expand their product portfolios. This has led to broader application for treating various types of disease, which helps the market grow.
 

Dopamine agonists are medications that mimic the effects of dopamine, a crucial signaling chemical in the brain. They play a vital role in treating movement disorders, particularly Parkinson’s disease. These drugs come in various forms some primarily target brain-related conditions, while others are used to treat disorders outside the brain.
 

Dopamine Agonists Market Trends

The increasing prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) raises the demand for dopamine agonists such as pramipexole and ropinirole, that drives the growth of the market. Moreover, with ongoing research and development activities for novel drug development by pharmaceutical companies are a significant driver of the market.
 

• Pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in research and development activities to develop advanced dopamine agonist formulations, such as extended-release formulations and transdermal patches, increasing patient compliance and market penetration. For instance, in January 2024, AbbVie announced the launch of PRODUODOPA (foslevodopa/foscarbidopa) in the European Union for the treatment of advanced Parkinson's disease with severe motor fluctuations and hyperkinesia (excessive movement) or dyskinesia (involuntary movement).
   
• These advancements are expected to increase the adoption rate and market potential, which is anticipated to boost market growth.
   
• Moreover, the increasing prevalence of acromegaly raises the demand for dopamine agonists owing to their increasing application in treating acromegaly, making them the primary option for acromegaly treatment and related neurological disorders.
   
• Additionally, patent expirations of dopamine agonists such as Mirapex, Requip, and Parlodel have led to generic competition, reducing costs and increasing accessibility in emerging markets.
   
• Also, the favorable reimbursement policies for neurological disorders including dopamine agonists makes treatment more accessible. In addition, increased government funding for neurological diseases, along with improved healthcare access, is propelling the dopamine agonists market. For example, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) allocated USD 270 million for Parkinson’s research in 2023.
   
• Lastly, the rapidly growing geriatric population increases the risk of developing neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s RLS, and other neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, the increasing elderly population is boosting the demand for dopamine agonists, thereby contributing the market growth.
   

Dopamine agonists Market Analysis

Based on drug type, the global market is divided into ergot dopamine agonists and non-ergot dopamine agonists. The non-ergot dopamine agonists segment dominated the market and was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2024. The non-ergot dopamine agonists segment is expected to reach from USD 1.6 billion in 2022, to USD 1.7 billion in 2023.
 

• Non-ergot dopamine agonists are increasingly preferred over ergot-derived counterparts due to their improved safety and tolerability. Ergot-derived agents have been associated with adverse effects, leading clinicians to favor non-ergot options for better patient outcomes.
   
• Moreover, the advancements in drug delivery systems leads to the development of once-daily formulations and transdermal patches that have improved patient compliance and convenience. These advancements have made the use of non-ergot dopamine agonists more user-friendly, contributing to their increased adoption.
   
• Additionally, the ongoing research and development activities have led to the development of novel non-ergot dopamine agonists with enhanced efficacy and safety profiles. These innovations attract both healthcare providers and patients, which could further boost its market presence.
   
• Further, rising prevalence of neurological disorders, with safety advantages over ergot derivatives, and expanding therapeutic applications is anticipated to boost market growth. In addition, with continued advancements in drug formulations and an aging population, the segment is expected to dominate the market in the coming years.

Based on the indication, the global dopamine agonists market is categorized into Parkinson’s disease, restless legs syndrome (RLS), hyperprolactinemia, and other indications. The Parkinsons’ disease segment accounted for the highest market share of 48.3% in 2024.
 

• Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s, with a rapidly increasing global burden. For example, as per the report published by World Health Organization, globally, an estimated 10 million people are living with Parkinson's disease, with the condition becoming more prevalent, especially in older populations, and projected to double by 2050. Thus, as awareness and detection techniques improve, the number of diagnosed cases of Parkinson’s is expected to increase, that increases the demand of dopamine agonists thereby supporting the market growth.
   
• The rising global healthcare expenditure, expected to reach USD 10 trillion by 2026, is expanding access to Parkinson's medications through improved availability and affordability of dopamine agonists.
   
• In addition, emerging markets such as China, India, Brazil are seeing increased adoption of PD drugs due to better healthcare infrastructure and government initiatives, that contribute to market growth.
   
• Additionally, many pharmaceutical companies are investing in innovative formulations and combination therapies to improve outcomes for patients with neurological disorders, thereby spur market growth.
   

Based on the route of administration, the global dopamine agonists market is categorized into oral, injectables, and other routes of administration. The oral segment accounted for the highest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow with a CAGR of 6.3% during the analysis period.
 

• Continuous research and development efforts have resulted in the introduction of more effective and patient-friendly oral dopamine agonists. These advancements have improved patient compliance and treatment outcomes, further propelling market growth.
   
• Patients prefer non-invasive treatment options due to easy administration and better patient compliance. This preference has led to increased use of oral dopamine agonists in managing conditions such as Parkinson's disease.
   
• In addition, regulatory agencies have been supportive in approving new and effective oral dopamine agonists, facilitating their market entry and adoption. For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved various formulations of dopamine agonists, enhancing their availability for patients.
   
• Moreover, advancements in drug formulations and extended release (er) variants to improve drug bioavailability and reducing dosing frequency. For example, drugs such as Rytary (carbidopa/levodopa extended-release capsules) and Neupro (rotigotine transdermal patch) are examples of advanced delivery systems that improve patient adherence thereby driving market expansion.
   

Based on the distribution channel, the global dopamine agonists market is categorized into hospital pharmacies, drug store and retail pharmacies and online pharmacies. The hospital pharmacies segment dominated the market in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2034.
 

• The movement toward integrated, multidisciplinary strategies for managing neurological disorders highlights the important function of hospital pharmacies in overseeing medication management, educating patients, and monitoring adherence, which helps market expansion.
   
• Furthermore, improvements in healthcare infrastructure, especially in developing areas, have increased access to advanced neurological therapies. This development allows hospital pharmacies to play a more significant role in the distribution and administration of dopamine agonists.
   
• In addition, ongoing research and development have resulted in the introduction of novel dopamine agonists with improved efficacy and safety profiles. These advancements enhance the therapeutic options available in hospital settings, thereby boosting the role of hospital pharmacies in administering these treatments.

North America dopamine agonists market held the largest market share of 42.5% in 2024 in the global market, and it is anticipated to expand at a 6.2% CAGR over the forecast period.
 

In 2024, the U.S. held a significant position in the North America market and was valued at USD 1.1 billion.
 

• The U.S. boasts a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, which enables faster diagnosis and better treatment access for neurological disorders. For example, as per the report published by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in 2023, U.S. healthcare spending reached USD 4.9 trillion, a 7.5% increase from the previous year, and is projected to grow by 5.2% in 2024.
   
• Moreover, continuous investments in drug development and regulatory approvals for new dopamine agonists therapies are boosting market growth.
   
• Additionally, public health campaigns and improved neurological disorder awareness have led to earlier diagnoses, increasing the number of patients receiving treatment. For example, organizations such as the Parkinson’s Foundation and Michael J. Fox Foundation run awareness programs promoting early screening. Thus, the early detection rates have improved due to advanced imaging technologies and AI-driven diagnostic tools, that further contribute the market growth.
   

Germany dopamine agonists market shows strong growth potential in the Europe market.
 

• Germany's demographic trend shows a significant increase in the elderly population, a group more susceptible to PD. Estimates indicate that there are at least 200,000 individuals affected by PD in Germany, with a clear upward trend expected due to aging demographics.
   
• Moreover, continuous research and development have led to more effective PD treatments, including dopamine agonists. Enhanced awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about early diagnosis and available therapies has further driven market growth.
   
• In addition, Germany's robust healthcare system, characterized by specialized hospitals and clinics, facilitates better access to PD treatments. The hospital sector holds a significant share of the market, showing the important role of hospital care in managing PD.
   
• The German government also encourages the use of generic medications to lower healthcare costs. Many generic alternatives to dopamine agonists, such as Pramipexole and Ropinirole, are available in the German market, making treatment more accessible and affordable.
   

The dopamine agonists market in Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% over the next few years.
 

• The pharmaceutical sector's growth in Asia-Pacific, combined with increased research and development activities, has resulted in new and improved dopamine agonists. These medications provide enhanced efficacy and safety profiles, increasing their adoption among patients and healthcare providers. The development of non-ergot-based dopamine agonists has introduced treatment options with reduced side effects.
   
• Government policies and initiatives focused on improving healthcare access and affordability have contributed to market expansion. Healthcare reforms, subsidies, and public health campaigns have enhanced access to neurological treatments, including dopamine agonists in the region, supporting market growth.
   

China dopamine agonists market is poised to witness high growth in the Asia Pacific market over the analysis period
 

• China's healthcare reforms are improving access to medical treatments. These changes are encouraging multinational pharmaceutical companies to enter the Chinese market, which increases the availability of dopamine agonists.
   
• The significant economic impact of PD on patients and the healthcare system shows the need for effective treatments. Dopamine agonists are an important part of PD therapy, and their cost is a separate factor that drives overall treatment expenses.
   
• Additionally, the introduction of new and improved dopamine agonists has enhanced treatment effectiveness and patient compliance. For example, the expected approval of LY03003, a reformulation of rotigotine that offers once-weekly dosing, will significantly impact the treatment landscape in China.
   

Brazil's dopamine agonists market is projected to witness significant growth in the Latin America market in coming years.
 

• Brazil's government initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure and treatment accessibility have enhanced the distribution of Parkinson's Disease (PD) medications. Government policies and increased research funding support the market growth.
   
• Studies show that PD creates substantial financial costs for Brazilian society, impacting both the healthcare system and patients. In São Paulo, 61% of PD patients aged 63 or younger used pramipexole, a dopamine agonists. The higher cost of pramipexole compared to alternative medications increased overall treatment expenses. These economic factors drive the demand for effective dopamine agonists.
   
• Clinical trials and research programs focused on developing new dopamine agonists and improving current treatments contribute to market growth. The development of more effective medications expands treatment options for PD patients.
   

Saudi Arabia is anticipated to grow in the Middle East and African dopamine agonists market.
 

• Saudi Arabia has shown a commitment to improving its healthcare infrastructure. The country's healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP has seen an upward trend. This rise in spending helps better diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, thereby increasing the demand for medications such as dopamine agonists.
   
• Moreover, there is a growing awareness of neurological disorders among both healthcare professionals and the general public in Saudi Arabia. Public campaigns and educational initiatives have been conducted to raise awareness about conditions such as PD, helping earlier diagnosis and treatment. Improved diagnostic capabilities lead to higher identification rates of such conditions, thereby increasing the demand for related treatments, contributing to market growth.
   

Dopamine Agonists Market Share

The top 7 companies in the market account for approximately 70% of the market share, including Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, GlaxoSmithKline, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Novartis, Pfizer, AbbVie, and UCB Pharma. These companies focus on developing new dopamine agonists to address the increasing cases of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome (RLS) worldwide. Their strong research and development activities, along with supportive regulatory environments and faster approval processes, have helped introduce and adopt new dopamine agonist treatments. This regulatory support encourages major pharmaceutical companies in the market to launch their products, which helps the market grow.
 

Companies like Novartis, Pfizer, and GlaxoSmithKline are increasing competition in the market by offering affordable solutions and adding more products to their portfolios. Additionally, companies are forming strategic partnerships, merging with other companies, and acquiring businesses to strengthen their market position, improve their global distribution networks, and speed up the launch of new dopamine agonists. These activities are helping the market grow steadily.
 

Dopamine Agonists Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the dopamine agonists industry are as mentioned below:

• AbbVie
• Adamas Pharma
• Amneal Pharmaceuticals
• Avvisto Therapeutics (VeroScience)
• Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals
• Bertek Pharmaceuticals (Mylan)
• GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
• Kirin Holdings Company
• Novartis
• Pfizer
• Sunovion Pharmaceuticals
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries
• UCB Pharma 
   

Elite Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced that it filed an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an undisclosed extended-release generic drug product in a class of medications called dopamine agonists.
 

AbbVie is a global player in dopamine agonists, the company recently announced that Cerevel Therapeutics announced positive topline results from its pivotal Phase 3 TEMPO-3 trial for tavapadon, the first and only D1/D5 receptor partial agonists being studied as a once-daily treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Tavapadon is the first and only selective D1/D5 receptor partial agonist in development for Parkinson’s disease and is currently being studied as a once-daily medicine for use as both a monotherapy and as an adjunctive therapy to LD, with the potential for reduced treatment burden and increased quality of life.
 

Dopamine Agonists Industry News

• In August 2024, AbbVie completed its acquisition of Cerevel Therapeutics, bringing the company and its promising Parkinson’s therapy under the AbbVie umbrella. The drug is expected to launch in the U.S. in 2025 and is projected to generate a market revenue of USD 1.4 million upon its release. This helped the company expand its product range.
   
• In May 2021, AffaMed Therapeutics announced that China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved the Clinical Trial Application (CTA) for a Phase IIb global clinical trial led by AffaMed, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of AM006 in patients with early Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
   
• In January 2019, Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated partner with Seelos Therapeutics, Inc. The companies will focus on the development and commercialization of central nervous system (CNS) therapeutics including dopamine agonists with known mechanisms of action in areas with high unmet medical need.
   

The dopamine agonists market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Drug Type

• Ergot dopamine agonists
• Non-ergot dopamine agonists

Market, By Indication

• Parkinson's disease
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
• Hyperprolactinemia
• Other indications

Market, By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Injectable
• Other routes of administration

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Hospital pharmacies
• Drug store and retail pharmacies
• Online pharmacies 

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE