Epilepsy Drugs Market - Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 - 2027)

Epilepsy Drugs Market - Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 - 2027)

The epilepsy drugs market is projected to register a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period (2022-2027).

The COVID-19 outbreak has had a significant impact on the market's growth as several neurology activities, such as medical training and research, were disrupted due to the pandemic. The outbreak not only impacted the epilepsy patients but also had an adverse impact on the epilepsy treatment centers. Patients' access to healthcare facilities was severely restricted due to the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission from patient to patient or from a healthcare provider to patient. Furthermore, due to concerns about patient-to-patient transmission, standby admissions in hospitals with COVID-19 inpatients or areas with widespread COVID-19 infection were reduced. For instance, according to an article published in March 2020 titled "Epilepsy and COVID-19: Updated Evidence and Narrative Review," a survey of 212 pediatric neurologists from 49 countries found that in-person outpatient visits have decreased, and telemedicine use was increased during the pandemic. Thus, COVID-19 has a significant impact on the growth of the market in the initial phase. However, owing to the resumption of several elective procedures and surgeries across the globe, the market is anticipated to gain traction over the coming years.

Significant factors contributing to the growth of the epilepsy drugs market include the rise in new drug approvals over the past few years and increasing cases of epilepsy across the globe. As per the World Health Organization's update of February 2022, around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally. In high-income countries, there are an estimated 49 per 100,000 patients that are diagnosed with epilepsy each year. In low- and middle-income countries, this figure can be as high as 139 per 100,000. Such a high burden of epilepsy creates the need for treatment and thus drives the growth of the market.

Additionally, the increasing launch of drugs for the treatment of epilepsy by market players at affordable prices is also contributing to the growth of the market. For instance, in March 2021, India-based Alkem Laboratories launched Brivasure, an affordable anti-epileptic drug for treating epilepsy in India. Also in February 2021, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries reported its plans to introduce a complete range of anti-epilepsy drugs, including Brivaracetam, in India at an affordable price.

Furthermore, rising awareness levels about epilepsy and strategic alliances are also anticipated to stimulate market growth. For instance, in November 2021, in the United States, November is celebrated as National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM). Every year, the Epilepsy Foundation, in collaboration with the Epilepsy Foundation, launches the #RemoveTheFilter social media campaign to reduce fear surrounding epilepsy and bring hope to those facing challenges. Such awareness campaigns are also expected to contribute to the growth of the market.

Thus, owing to the abovementioned factors, the market's growth is expected to accelerate over the coming years. However, side effects associated with drugs and the recent expiration of patents on major drugs may impede the growth of the market.

Key Market TrendsSecond Generation Anti-epileptics is the Segment by Drugs Expected to Hold a Large Market Share Over the Forecast Period

Second-generation anti-epileptics drugs are expected to hold the largest market share owing to several significant advantages, such as reduced drug-drug interactions, fewer life-threatening adverse events, and a less negative impact on cognitive functions. Also, the rising cases of epilepsy will boost the demand for drugs in the market segment.

Additionally, the launch of second-line drugs for the treatment of epilepsy by the various market players is propelling the growth of the segment. Also, in February 2021, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories launched Vigabatrin tablets, an antiepileptic drug, in the United States market after receiving approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration.

Besides, the market players are also acquiring other firms to expand their product portfolio. For instance, in January 2022, UCB acquired Zogenix for USD 1.9 billion to bolster its epilepsy portfolio by adding Fintepla (fenfluramine), a marketed drug for treating seizures associated with Dravet syndrome, a rare form of childhood epilepsy. Having gained a newly marketed product for patients with rare and difficult-to-treat pediatric orphan epilepsy syndromes, this deal continues to expand UCB’s extensive therapeutic offering in the epilepsy market.

Hence, owing to the new product launches and acceptance of second-generation epilepsy drugs, the segment is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period.

North America is Expected to Hold Largest Market Share over the Forecast Period

The North American region is expected to show significant growth over the forecast period owing to the increasing burden of epilepsy coupled with the strategic initiatives, awareness campaigns, and launches of new products by the market players.

Additionally, the approval of drugs for different aged populations is also boosting the growth of the market. For instance, in August 2021, UCB received United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for an expanded indication for BRIVIACT (brivaracetam) CV tablets, oral solution, and injection to treat partial-onset seizures in patients as young as one month of age. This is the first time that the IV formulation of BRIVIACT will be available for pediatric patients when oral administration is not feasible. It is one of the first IV formulations approved to treat partial-onset seizures in children one month of age and older (nearly 7 years).

Furthermore, various organizations are raising awareness about epilepsy in the United States. For instance, Epilepsy Awareness Day, or Purple Day, is celebrated annually on the 26th of March to increase the public’s understanding of this brain disorder and to eliminate the fear and stigma surrounding it.

Thus, owing to the abovementioned factors, the market is expected to show growth over the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape

The market studied is a consolidated market owing to the presence of a few major market players. Therefore, most of the key players are found focusing on the expansion of their businesses to increase their market share. They are also adopting specific strategies, such as new product development, mergers, and acquisitions. Some players operating in the market are Abbott Laboratories, GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, Pfizer, Inc., Sanofi SA, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, and UCB S.A.

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