Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market – By Drug Class (NSAIDs, Anesthetics, Antidepressants, Anticonvulsants), Medication Type, Indication (Neuropathic Pain, Post-Operative Pain), Route of Administration, Distribution Channel – Global Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market Size

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market size was valued at USD 47.2 billion in 2023 and is estimated to grow at 7.3% CAGR from 2024 to 2032. The market has experienced considerable growth due to the increasing incidence of chronic pain conditions and the growing concern over opioid addiction and its associated risks.
 

As more individuals suffer from disorders such as arthritis, back pain, and neuropathic disorders, the need for effective pain management drugs has surged. For instance, in May 2023, a study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) highlighted that new cases of chronic pain occur more frequently among U.S. adults compared to conditions like diabetes, depression, and high blood pressure, with rates of 21% for chronic pain and 8% for high-impact chronic pain (HICP). This high prevalence, along with the substantial cost burden associated with managing such pain, underscores the need for effective treatment options. As patients increasingly seek safer alternatives to opioids, the demand for non-opioid treatments, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, has surged, driving growth in the market.
 

Additionally, rising awareness of the risks associated with opioid use is further encouraging patients and practitioners to explore non-opioid options, thereby boosting market growth. Non-opioid pain treatments are pharmacological therapies aimed at relieving pain without relying on opioids, which can cause addiction and other adverse effects. This category primarily comprises NSAIDs, analgesics, antidepressant drugs, and other medications. Non-opioid analgesics are increasingly preferred for their safety and effectiveness in managing both acute and chronic pain conditions.
 

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market Trends

Researchers and pharmaceutical companies are continuously focusing on developing innovative non-opioid therapies that offer effective pain management while minimizing the risks associated with opioids. This includes advancing new drug formulations, exploring novel drug targets, and improving existing therapies. These advancements in research and development enhance market growth by expanding treatment options and improving patient outcomes.
 

• For instance, in February 2024, Cal State Fullerton medicinal chemistry students Faye Yun and Leah Duong, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Stevan Pecic, began developing novel non-opioid pain treatments. Funded by a nearly USD 600,000 NIH grant, their research focused on creating small molecules that target two key enzymes involved in pain and inflammation. This innovative approach aims to address the limitations of current therapies, offering new solutions for chronic pain management. The successful development of these compounds may revolutionize non-opioid pain treatments.
   
• Similarly, in January 2024, researchers at The University of Texas at Austin made significant progress with a new compound, FEM-1689, for treating neuropathic pain. Tested on models of diabetic and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, FEM-1689 shows promising benefits without interacting with opioid receptors. The goal is to develop this compound into a non-addictive alternative to current pain medications, addressing chronic pain safely and effectively. If successful, FEM-1689 could revolutionize pain management by providing a safer option than opioids.
   

These research efforts are aimed at exploring opportunities for non-opioid drugs to better meet patient needs for pain management. Moreover, the growing aging population, increasing surgical procedures, rising pain incidences, and enhanced research efforts are anticipated to boost market demand.
 

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market Analysis

Based on the drug class, the market is categorized as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), local anesthetics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, analgesics, and other drug classes. The NSAIDs segment is set to lead the market, accounting for the largest revenue in 2023, anticipating its dominance throughout the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.1%.
 

• The dominance of NSAIDs is attributed to their widespread use and effectiveness in managing various types of pain, including musculoskeletal, inflammatory, and acute pain.
   
• NSAIDs are commonly available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, making them accessible to a broad population.
   
• Their ability to reduce pain and inflammation without the risks associated with opioid use has led to their preference among both healthcare providers and patients.
   
• Additionally, ongoing advancements in NSAID formulations, including topical and extended-release options, have further solidified their market dominance.
   

Based on route of administration, the non-opioid pain treatment market is classified into topical, oral, injectable, and other routes of administration. The oral segment holds the largest market share of 42.9% in 2023 and is expected to maintain dominance throughout the analysis period.
 

• The prominence of the oral route is due to its convenience, effectiveness, and widespread availability.
   
• Oral medications are favored by many patients with acute and, in some cases, severe pain due to their ability to provide rapid relief without requiring a prescription.
   
• Additionally, growing awareness of the risks associated with opioid use has shifted consumer preference towards safer oral alternatives.
   
• As a result, the dominance of the oral segment is reinforced by its established role in pain management and the increasing demand for non-opioid solutions.
   

Based on indication, the non-opioid pain treatment market is segmented into neuropathic pain, post-operative pain, chronic back pain, cancer pain, migraine, arthritic pain, muscle sprain/strain, and other indications. The neuropathic pain segment is expected to lead the market projected to reach USD 18.4 billion by 2032.

• Neuropathic pain has dominated the market due to its complexity and high prevalence in chronic conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and post-surgical complications.
   
• The challenges in managing neuropathic pain and its substantial impact on health drive the demand for effective treatments.
   
• Thus, the growing need for specialized non-opioid therapies targeting nerve pain underscores the prominence of this indication.
   
• Furthermore, advancements in the development of novel drug delivery systems and increased awareness of neuropathic pain further enhance its prominence in the treatment market.
   

Based on medication type, the non-opioid pain treatment market is segmented into over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription. The OTC segment is expected to lead the market projected to reach 65.0% by 2032.
 

• The OTC drugs are readily accessible and widely used, offering effective pain relief without requiring a prescription, making them a preferred choice for consumers.
   
• The ease of purchasing these medications directly contributes to their popularity and drives market demand.
   
• Furthermore, growing awareness of opioid risks has led patients to seek safer alternatives, increasing the adoption of OTC pain relief options.
   
• Consequently, the OTC segment plays a pivotal role in shaping the market.
   

Based on the distribution channel, the non-opioid pain treatment market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. The hospital pharmacies segment dominated the market accounting for the largest market revenue of USD 21.1 billion in 2023.
 

• The widespread accessibility and convenience of retail pharmacies make them the preferred first point of contact for individuals seeking pain relief, offering a broad range of OTC and prescription non-opioid pain treatments.
   
• Their extensive presence in both urban and rural areas allow for easy access to medications, driving higher sales volumes.
   
• Additionally, retail pharmacies often provide patient counseling and immediate access to medications, which enhances consumer trust and loyalty, further contributing to their market dominance.
   

U.S. dominated the North American non-opioid pain treatment market accounting for USD 19.2 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to show considerable growth over the analysis period.
 

• The U.S. holds a dominant position in the North American market due to several key factors.
   
• The country experiences substantial demand for alternative pain management solutions, driven by the ongoing opioid crisis and the high prevalence of chronic pain conditions.
   
• Additionally, the U.S. fosters innovation in non-opioid treatments due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, significant investment in research and development, and the presence of leading pharmaceutical companies.
   
• Furthermore, regulatory support and initiatives aimed at reducing opioid dependence further bolster market growth.
   
• Thus, the aforementioned factors collectively affirm the U.S.'s position in the North American non-opioid pain treatment sector.
   

Germany exhibited a high growth potential in the European non-opioid pain treatment market.
 

• Germany exhibited high growth potential in the European market due to its advanced healthcare system and strong pharmaceutical sector.
   
• The country is a leader in developing and adopting innovative non-opioid treatments, driven by a focus on reducing opioid reliance and improving patient care.
   
• Furthermore, significant investment in research and development, coupled with a supportive regulatory environment, enhances Germany's ability to introduce effective pain management solutions.
   
• Additionally, the high prevalence of chronic pain conditions and the country's commitment to advancing pain treatment technologies contribute to its prominent and rapidly growing role in the European market.
   

The Asia Pacific non-opioid pain treatment market is poised for rapid growth with a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.
 

• This region’s growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic pain, rising healthcare investments, and a growing focus on developing non-opioid alternatives to manage pain effectively.
   
• The region's expanding pharmaceutical industry, improving healthcare infrastructure, and rising awareness about the risks of opioid use further contribute to the market's expansion.
   
• Additionally, the increasing adoption of advanced pain management solutions and supportive government policies are expected to accelerate market growth in the Asia Pacific region.
   

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market Share

The market is characterized by intense competition among various pharmaceutical companies, driven by the growing demand for safer, non-addictive pain management solutions. Companies focus on expanding their product portfolios with innovative formulations, including extended-release and combination therapies. Research and development are key, with many companies investing in advanced drug delivery systems and novel compounds. Additionally, market players compete through strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and geographic expansion to strengthen their presence in this rapidly evolving market.
 

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Market Companies

Few of the prominent players operating in the non-opioid pain treatment industry include:

• Amgen Inc.
• Almatica Pharma LLC
• Eli Lilly and Company
• Fresenius Kabi AG
• GlaxoSmithKline plc
• Haleon group 
• Heron Therapeutics
• Hyloris Pharmaceuticals
• Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc.
• Neumentum Inc.
• Novartis AG
• Par Pharmaceutical, Inc.
• Pfizer Inc.
• Sanofi 
• Scilex Holding Company
• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Vertex Pharmaceuticals
• WEX Pharmaceuticals Inc.
   

Non-opioid Pain Treatment Industry News:

• In April 2024, Vertex Pharmaceuticals developed an experimental drug that effectively reduces acute, post-surgical pain without addiction risk, marking a significant milestone. The study highlighted the increasing research efforts expected to create opportunities for non-opioid drugs and the company's business expansion towards pain management.
   
• In October 2023, Hyloris Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for its non-opioid painkiller, Maxigesic IV, in the U.S. The drug is authorized to treat mild-to-moderate pain and as an adjunct for moderate to severe pain. This approval represents a significant advancement in non-opioid pain management.
   

The non-opioid pain treatment market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2032 for the following segments:

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Market, By Drug Class

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Antidepressants
• Anticonvulsants
• Local anesthetics
• Analgesics
• Other drug classes

Market, By Medication Type

• Over-the-counter (OTC)
• Prescription

Market, By Indication

• Neuropathic pain
• Post-operative pain
• Chronic back pain
• Cancer pain
• Migraine
• Arthritic pain
• Muscle sprain/strain
• Other indications

Market, By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Topical
• Injectable
• Other routes of administration

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Hospital pharmacies
• 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
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Rest of Middle East and Africa