Corticosteroids Market By Type (Glucocorticoids {Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Methylprednisolone, Hydrocortisone, Betamethasone, Triamcinolone}, Mineralocorticoids {Fludrocortisone, Deoxycorticosterone}), By Route of Administration (Oral, Injectable, Topical, Inhalation, Nasal, Ophthalmic), By Dosage Form (Tablets, Capsules, Creams, Ointments, Lotions, Injections, Eye Drops, Nasal Sprays, Metered Dose Inhalers, Dry Powder Inhalers), By Prescription Type (Prescription-based corticosteroids, Over-the-counter corticosteroids), By Application (Allergy and Asthma, Skin Disorders, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Adrenal Insufficiency, Oncology Supportive Therapy, Others), and By End User (Hospitals, Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies, Others), Global Market Size, Segmental Analysis, Regional Overview, Company Share Analysis, Leading Company Profiles, and Market Forecast, 2025–2035.

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What trends will shape the Corticosteroids Market in the coming years?

The Corticosteroids Market accounted for USD 5.76 Billion in 2024 and USD 6.08 Billion in 2025 is expected to reach USD 10.51 Billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of around 5.62% between 2025 and 2035. The Corticosteroids Market will experience continuous development based on increasing numbers of chronic diseases of inflammation and autoimmune diseases, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Treatment by use of inhaled and topical corticosteroids is becoming popular as a local dose with fewer systemic effects. Personalized and targeted drug delivery systems and innovative controlled-release formulations are other mechanisms that are enhancing innovation.

The increase in the population of elderly people and the propensity toward self-medicating are fueling the use of over-the-counter corticosteroids, which is gaining momentum. Nonetheless, the long-term side effects and the regulatory oversight might play into the market dynamics. Both access and affordability of care are likely to improve in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, due to which new growth opportunities are likely to be opened in these markets.

What do industry experts say about the Corticosteroids market trends?

“We are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of asthma patients worldwide. Our focus is on patient-centric sustainable healthcare innovation, ensuring that those who receive our pMDIs have reliable access to effective treatments with minimal impact to the environment.”

• Vinita Gupta, CEO of Lupin.

“The launch of Prednisolone Acetate Ophthalmic Suspension is a milestone and is aligned with our commitment to enhancing access to innovative, affordable and quality healthcare solutions. This will strengthen our ophthalmic portfolio and will benefit patients seeking effective treatment for steroid‑responsive inflammation.”

• Vinita Gupta, CEO of Lupin.

Which segments and geographies does the report analyze?

What are the key drivers and challenges shaping the Corticosteroids market?

How does rising chronic disease prevalence boost global corticosteroid prescription and consumption rates?

In the global Corticosteroids Market, the prevalence of chronic diseases is increasing, which enhances the rate of prescription and consumption progressively since more patients face the necessity to control the inflammation processes substantially. The burden of noncommunicable conditions is characterized by the fact that, as stated by the World Health Organization, the vast majority of deaths that occur all over the world are caused by noncommunicable diseases. More than 76% of adults in the United States claimed to have at least one chronic health condition, which means a high number of patients who will need long-term treatments. Patients have to treat asthma, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disorders with corticosteroids that help to manage the symptoms. Necessity and place of infection determine the prescription of systemic, inhaled, and topical corticosteroids.

Corticosteroids are one of the common components of polypharmacy, which is also a result of the rise of multimorbidity in aging populations. Better healthcare facilities and early diagnostic systems also lead to its higher utilization. Corticosteroids have fast anti-inflammatory properties and are therefore also well accepted by physicians because of their versatility. As the world has become more knowledgeable and more reachable, the use of corticosteroids is becoming more common in chronic care practice. This increased use makes them essential therapeutics in controlling chronic health problems.

Why are new drug delivery systems increasing corticosteroid safety and clinical adoption worldwide?

New drug delivery systems are playing an important role in increasing safety and clinical adoption in the Global Corticosteroids Market. The advanced modes of delivery, like inhalers, nasal sprays, and topical formulations, allow direct delivery to the affected areas, which are absorbed very little into the body as compared to the traditional modes, resulting in low side effects. As an example, the systemic bioavailability of intranasal corticosteroid administration is exceedingly small, which significantly reduces the risks of such adverse effects as adrenal suppression. The intake of the drug, though an inhaled steroid, works directly on the lungs, and thus a smaller supply is required to have a high effect.

These inventions limit complications such as osteoporosis and metabolic imbalances, in many cases experienced with oral steroids. It is also clinically demonstrated that such adverse events, like oral thrush or dysphonia, are reversible and manageable. Patient compliance has been enhanced with the assistance of devices that are easy to use, such as metered-dose inhalers and spacers. The new forms are becoming more frequently prescribed by doctors on a long-term basis in chronic diseases. Consequently, the perception of safety and compliance with treatment has been intensified in the whole world. Such trends are transforming the use of corticosteroids in various fields, and they are increasingly becoming safer and readily available.

How do corticosteroid side effects limit long-term usage across multiple patient populations globally?

The side effects of corticosteroids impose very critical restrictions on the chronic use of corticosteroids in various groups of patients in the Global Corticosteroids Market because of their extensive systemic activities. There are some severe effects of its long-term usage, including osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, cataracts, and adrenal suppression, which are of great health risk. Growth retardation is of specific concern in pediatric populations, and older adults are susceptible to bone loss and immune suppression. The comorbid patients are at an increased risk of metabolic imbalances and cardiovascular stress.

The effects may cause discontinuation of treatment or necessitate a dose tapering, leading to lower efficacy of treatment. The reason that physicians might not want to prescribe a long-term treatment plan with corticosteroids is that, in some cases, there might be alternatives to their use. The routine checkup further contributes to the burden of the treatment. Consequently, clinicians are more inclined to use safer alternatives, either a low-dose regimen, a concept of targeted delivery, or a steroid-free treatment. Although they are effective, there is a significant obstacle to the sustained use of corticosteroids, which is the long-term safety concerns.

How can pediatric formulations unlock underserved markets for corticosteroids in rare adrenal diseases?

To target unmet rare adrenal disease demands, pediatric formulations open up new markets in the Global Corticosteroids Market and can change the way frequent-to-rare conditions and diseases are being treated because of the follow-on potential by allowing them to be dosed, which can increase adherence and fill significant gaps. An example is congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which is estimated to occur in one per 5,762 babies at birth in India based on government-sponsored ICMR screening statistics. Conventional solid doses of corticosteroids are hazardous in infant dosing, whereas liquid oral preparations can be administered successfully by weight. Childhood-focused pediatric forms support the delivery of safer treatments with fewer unfavorable outcomes, such as underdosing or overexposure.

The innovation improves the confidence of caregivers and clinicians when dealing with young patients with adrenal insufficiency. Early treatment of adrenal crises can avoid life-threatening crises and enhance long-term growth. Child-specific formulations have a greater possibility of being accepted by the regulators, securing wider access to the market. Better access to low-rank and middle-income environments extends access further. The pediatric portfolios do not just satisfy the unmet clinical needs but also open the entry into new commercial opportunities where the adult versions were definitely insufficient.

Why is rising healthcare access in Asia-Pacific creating new corticosteroid treatment demand?

Increased medical access in Asia-Pacific means that people are getting treated at an alternative, better rate at a very low cost or one that they can afford, and this translates into a new demand for treatment in the Global Corticosteroids Market. As major health reforms are being undertaken, the area countries are also increasing universal health coverage, which means more individuals in the area can get medical treatment for chronic diseases that necessitate the use of corticosteroids. As an example, Vietnam has almost 93 percent of its population covered by social health insurance, whereas Thailand has more than 99 percent coverage from its universal healthcare program. Through these developments, there are now limited out-of-pocket expenditures, thus making the necessary drugs, such as corticosteroids, accessible.

The earlier diagnosis and sustained treatment are also being made possible by the improved healthcare infrastructure in the outskirts. Since people have been paying more attention to the existence of such health issues as asthma, dermatitis, and autoimmune disorders, the prescriptions of corticosteroids are increasing. Clinical adoption is also promoted through government-supported reimbursement systems. This demand is compounded by the growing number of elderly people as well as the high rate of urbanization. As folks comprising previously underserved groups are now gaining access to treatment, the region is experiencing a significant increase in the use of corticosteroids.

What are the key market segments in the Corticosteroids industry?

Based on the type, the Corticosteroids Market is classified into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, where the market is clearly dominated by glucocorticoids since they are widely used in the treatment of inflammatory, autoimmune, and allergic conditions. Dexamethasone, prednisone, and hydrocortisone are well-used glucocorticoids; they can be prescribed in different fields such as dermatology, pulmonology, and rheumatology. They are vital both in acute and chronic treatments due to their high anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.

Mineralocorticoids, headed by fludrocortisone, play a minor but important role, principally applicable in the treatment of such diseases as Addison disease and other adrenal inadequacies. Although the glucocorticoid portion is growing as the result of advances in inhaled and topical versions, mineralocorticoids keep standard demand at specialty endocrinology. The increased prevalence of chronic diseases around the world keeps the pressure of demand of glucocorticoids. The formation of less toxic formulas with fewer side effects is also the support of this segment.

Based on the application, the Corticosteroids Market is classified into allergy and asthma, skin disorders, rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, adrenal insufficiency, oncology supportive therapy, and others. Treatment of asthma and allergies constitutes an important portion because there is a growing rate of respiratory illnesses around the world and especially in city conditions.

Dermatological disorders like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis also contribute to a high demand for topical corticosteroids. Systemic corticosteroids are still being prescribed to treat rheumatology and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Additional strength to their gastrointestinal usage is inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. In oncology, corticoids are also employed in supportive care to deal with inflammation and side effects of drugs administered during treatment. Multi-specialty usage is still maintaining the growth of the market as the burden rates of chronic diseases increase.

Which regions are leading the Corticosteroids market, and why?

The North American Corticosteroids Market is leading due to the prevalence of the number of chronic conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. There is superior health infrastructure, high levels of access to prescription drugs, and robust reimbursement guidelines within the region. The U.S. has monopolized the market as a result of strong pharmaceutical R&D, early application of new corticosteroid formulations, and a growing old-age population.

Increasing knowledge about inflammatory diseases and the presence of prescription and OTC steroids contribute to the growth of the market, too. Furthermore, the availability of large pharmaceutical companies on a strategic basis in the region boosts the product development/production, and distribution. Approval of new corticosteroid drugs is further consolidating North America's market dominance.

The Asia Pacific Corticosteroids Market is growing due to the rising incidence of chronic diseases like asthma, eczema, and autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto thyroiditis. Asia-Pacific is fast turning into a major market segment in the corticosteroid market. Higher rates of inflammatory diseases are being recorded in various countries, such as India, China, and countries in Southeast Asia, due to rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles, besides the environmental impacts.

The area is experiencing increased use of both prescription-based and over-the-counter corticosteroid products. Also, the healthcare facilities and the government efforts to increase the avenues of receiving cheap treatments are adding zest to the market growth. The availability of a significant pool of patients and the growing contribution of the local generic manufacturers also add to the fact that the region is rapidly growing.

What does the competitive landscape of the Corticosteroids market look like?

The competitive environment in the Corticosteroids Market is characterized by the existence of some of the world's pharmaceutical giants, such as Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Merck & Co., AstraZeneca, Sanofi, Roche, AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Teva, Viatris, Lupin, and Cipla. On the choice of business rivals, these companies are competent in terms of innovation of products, partnerships, market access, and product pricing. The presence of branded and generic corticosteroids further fuels the competition, particularly with more important patents expiring. Most companies are also prioritizing the invention of improved drug delivery mechanisms, like inhaled, topical, and extended-release drugs, to maximize the effectiveness and reduce the side effects.

New emerging companies in Asia and Latin America are also picking up, with the ability to manufacture cost-effective products. Most recently, Lupin has entered the German market with Luforbec 100 6 inhaler, a beclometasone and formoterol combo inhaler, extending its presence to the respiratory space. This launch conforms with the increasing need for inhaled corticosteroids in Europe. Also, firms are investing in the research and development of corticosteroids that have better safety profiles. The rising popularity of chronic inflammatory diseases has continued to lead the competition and demand in the market.

Corticosteroids Market, Company Shares Analysis, 2024

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Which recent mergers, acquisitions, or product launches are shaping the Corticosteroids industry?

• In May 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Khindivi™ (hydrocortisone oral solution) as the first-ever FDA-approved liquid hydrocortisone formulation for pediatric patients aged five and above with adrenocortical insufficiency. This 1 mg/mL ready‑to‑use solution eliminates the need for tablet splitting or mixing, enabling precise dosing for children. Launch began in early June via specialty pharmacy distribution.
• In February 2025, the FDA extended the PDUFA target action date for Eton Pharmaceuticals' hydrocortisone oral solution (formerly ET‑400) to February 28, aligning with timelines before its approval.

Report Coverage:

By Type

• Glucocorticoids
  • Prednisone
  • Dexamethasone
  • Methylprednisolone
  • Hydrocortisone
  • Betamethasone
  • Triamcinolone
• Mineralocorticoids
  • Fludrocortisone
  • Deoxycorticosterone

By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Injectable
• Topical
• Inhalation
• Nasal
• Ophthalmic

By Dosage Form

• Tablets
• Capsules
• Creams
• Ointments
• Lotions
• Injections
• Eye drops
• Nasal sprays
• Metered Dose Inhalers
• Dry Powder Inhalers

By Prescription Type

• Prescription-based corticosteroids
• Over-the-counter corticosteroids

By Application

• Allergy and asthma
• Skin disorders
• Rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Oncology supportive therapy
• Others

By End User

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Ambulatory surgical centers
• Retail pharmacies
• Online pharmacies
• Others

By Region

North America

• U.S.
• Canada

Europe

• U.K.
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• Australia
• South Korea
• Singapore
• Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• GCC Countries
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

List of Companies:

• Pfizer Inc.
• GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK)
• Novartis International AG
• Merck & Co., Inc.
• Sanofi S.A.
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
• AstraZeneca plc
• AbbVie Inc.
• Eli Lilly and Company
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Viatris Inc.
• Cipla Limited
• Lupin Limited
• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Bausch Health Companies Inc.

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