Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs Market By Drug Type (Over-the-counter Drugs {Ibuprofen, ketoprofen, Aspirin, Naproxen, Others}, Prescription {Diclofenac, Celecoxib, Etodolac, Ketorolac, Indomethacin, Others}), By Indication (Pain Management {Acute Pain, Chronic Pain}, Inflammatory Conditions {Arthritis, Gout, Migraine}, Ophthalmic Diseases, Others), By Dosage Form (Tablets, Capsules, Creams, Ointments Injectable, Others), By Route of Administration (Oral, Parenteral, Topical), and By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, Online Pharmacy), Global Market Size, Segmental analysis, Regional Overview, Company share analysis, Leading Company Profiles And Market Forecast, 2025 – 2035

Industry Outlook

The Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs market accounted for USD 21.3 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 37.6 Billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of around 5.3% between 2025 and 2035. The Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) market entails the manufacture and sale of pain-relieving agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, and drugs that bring down inflammation and fever. Some of them include arthritis, muscle pain, headaches, and other inflammation-related diseases that can be treated with NSAIDs. It includes both patented over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and aspirin and prescription drugs. This is the result of a higher incidence of chronic pain and inflammatory diseases and improvements in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the drugs.

Report Scope:

Market Dynamics

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Pain and Inflammatory Disorders Worldwide

Chronic pain problems like arthritis, back pain, and fibromyalgia are driving global demand for the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) market. These issues are particularly prevalent in the elderly because joints and muscles weaken with age. Obesity, insufficient exercise, and poor posture have all contributed to an increase in the prevalence of inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The analgesic and antirheumatic effects of NSAIDs maintain their status as the first-line therapy for such objectives, proving their significance.

Increased knowledge of the ways of controlling pain and improvement in diagnostic procedures makes patients with chronic pain seek medical help. Practitioners globally are shifting focus towards early intervention and treatment of inflammatory conditions, in addition to patient retention, thus fueling demand for NSAID products. NSAIDs remain popular for pain therapy, particularly acute pain since patients and doctors seek simple, effective medications.

Increasing Demand for Over-the-Counter NSAIDs in Emerging Markets

The Over-the-counter (OTC) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) market is in high demand in emerging economies because of improved medical infrastructure and rising incomes. OTC NSAIDs, like ibuprofen and aspirin, are used to alleviate mild ailments like headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle aches. They do not require a prescription and are widely available in the market. Furthermore, the ongoing broadcast of information on self-prescribing and pain management products adds to the demand for these treatments in places with limited medical access.

Over-the-counter NSAIDs have been strengthened by the increased number of retail pharmacies, supermarkets, and online sales in these areas. Government measures to improve pharmaceutical distribution and make medications more affordable and accessible are also worth mentioning. These countries are now becoming critical for the growth of the OTC NSAID industry as the middle-class population grows and e-commerce is being used to purchase healthcare items.

Adverse Effects Associated with Long-term Use of NSAIDs

The adverse effects of long-term drug use impede the expansion of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) market. Prolonged use of NSAIDs causes life-threatening GI adverse effects such as ulceration, bleeding, and perforation, particularly in the elderly and those with a history of GI disease. This risk often necessitates the use of neutralizing medications, such as proton pump inhibitors. The entire cost of the treatment is significant. This is restricting because it leads to the development of various issues in addition to providing relief for chronic pain and inflammatory illnesses through the use of NSAIDs.

Long-term usage of NSAIDs has been linked to cardiovascular problems such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, and certain forms of these medicines, including COX-2 inhibitors. These dangers have resulted in the emergence of issues that are brought to the attention of regulatory authorities, and as a result, certain restrictions on prescription decisions have been imposed. Further complications arise from the fact that NSAIDs inhibit renal function, particularly in people with renal illness or limited water storage. These adverse effects emphasized safer options, which is one of the most significant downsides of using NSAIDs in chronic care scenarios.

Advancements in Drug Formulations for Improved Efficacy and Safety

Pharmacological developments offer a major opportunity in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs market. Today, drug manufacturers are more interested in creating novel preparations that must offer better therapeutic outcomes with fewer side effects.

For instance, prolonged-action tablets and modified-action capsules are ballistic types that demand a patient to take large doses for an extended period with fewer doses, hence enhancing compliance rates. Similarly, topical NSAIDs in the form of gels, patches, and lotions are becoming increasingly popular for treating localized pain since they restrict systemic exposure and consequent adverse effects such as gastritis or cardiovascular problems.

An attractive field for further work is the synthesis of novel NSAIDs attached to specific carriers, for instance, liposomal or nanoparticle ones. These technologies allow direct targeting and administration of drugs specifically to the target tissue, which improves the therapeutic impact and decreases the adverse effects. Also, the newest scientific findings about COX-2 inhibitors and other new compounds with less hazardous effects widen the range of therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, these developments extend beyond the areas where patients are concerned about avoiding experiencing or suffering from side effects; they also enter new markets, particularly the long-term therapy sector.

Expansion of Distribution Channels in Underserved and Remote Regions

The growth of distribution networks in underdeveloped and hard-to-reach markets offers a major opportunity for the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs market. Health Care Paper Developing regions still experience difficulties in acquiring important drugs because of poor infrastructure. Thus, with an increase in investment in supply chain enhancement, retail outlets, pharmacists, and clinics, CHC’s access to NSAIDs is expanding.

Moreover, advancements in technology, such as e-commerce and online pharmacies, are changing the ways through which consumers access NSAIDs, especially in rural areas. This, together with digital health and telemedicine, ensures that pain treatment pharmaceuticals reach the unserved or underserved population. As a result, current access challenges can limit the enormous volume of potential patient access in these regions. By breaking down access barriers, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies will expand their markets locally and globally and contribute positively to global health.

Industry Experts Opinion

“Our constant dedication has helped expand our product portfolio, and we are now a significant and reliable supplier of these NSAIDs.”

• Swapnil Shah, Managing Director, Senores Group.

Segment Analysis

Based on drug type, the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug market is classified into Over-the-counter Drugs and Prescription. Oral NSAIDs represent the largest subsegment of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) market. These include ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, which are all accessible over the counter. These medications are widely used because they effectively treat pain, inflammation, and fever. They are the most effective competitors because of their accessibility, low cost, and their ability to treat problems such as arthritis, headaches, and other muscle aches. Furthermore, oral NSAIDs are easier to use and more accessible than other types of NSAIDs and have a well-documented safety profile; therefore, they account for the majority of the market.

Based on indication, the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug market is classified into Pain Management, Inflammatory Conditions, Ophthalmic Diseases, and Others. The pain management is by far the largest in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) market. This is mostly because NSAIDs are routinely used to treat a wide range of pain conditions, including OA, RA, and acute pain, such as postoperative, headache, and musculoskeletal pain. This is because almost all NSAIDs may greatly reduce pain and inflammation and are often inexpensive and readily available over the counter. With such a high number of pain relief therapies, the Pain Management category is the largest in the NSAID market.

Regional Analysis

The North American non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug market dominates due to the rising prevalence of pain, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory illnesses. The region has a strong healthcare system, widespread availability of NSAIDs (prescription and over-the-counter), and a decent grasp of pain management methods. Furthermore, it ranks due to the product dominance of the region's leading pharmaceutical firms, robust R&D, and appropriate legislation. The highest percentage belongs to the United States, which spends the most on health care while also having the largest and fastest-aging population.

The Asia-Pacific non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug market is the fastest-growing, owing to reasons such as increased healthcare spending, an increase in the number of the elderly, and increased consumer awareness of pain treatment. China and India are the primary contributors to this growth, which is due to their vast populations, expansion of drug production facilities, and increased availability of most medicines. The increased prevalence of chronic illnesses and the shift to online medicine sales in these countries exacerbate the situation. Moreover, it recognizes that the regional economy's expansion and increased government support for the development of the healthcare sector will continue to fuel the region's rapid growth in the coming years.

Competitive Landscape

Major companies include Pfizer Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, Bayer AG, AbbVie Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK), Sanofi, and Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH. These companies dominate the market with key NSAID medications like Pfizer's Advil, Johnson & Johnson's Motrin, and GSK's Voltaren. Bayer's recent strategic management initiatives include an investment to expand its P2 portfolio, specifically OTC pain relief medications, and Boehringer Ingelheim's pipe strategy to boost its anti-inflammatory solution offering. Moreover, there is interest in developing the second generation of NSAIDs with better safety characteristics from companies such as AbbVie and Merck. Growing consumer awareness of more effective approaches to managing pain and presenting new delivery technologies are among the factors that further fuel competition among these market participants.

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs Market, Company Shares Analysis, 2024

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Recent Developments:

• In May 2023, AbbVie Inc. announced that the FDA had approved RINVOQ (upadacitinib) for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease. The approval of this product is considered to assist the company in expanding its product portfolio in anti-inflammatory drugs and boost revenue growth.
• In May 2022, Ketorolac Tromethamine, 10 mg Tablets USP, have been introduced into the US market by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories. Ketorolac tromethamine tablets, 10 mg, are a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for short-term management of moderately severe acute pain.

Report Coverage:

By Drug Type

• Over-the-counter Drugs
  • Ibuprofen
  • ketoprofen
  • Aspirin
  • Naproxen
  • Others
• Prescription
  • Diclofenac
  • Celecoxib
  • Etodolac
  • Ketorolac
  • Indomethacin
  • Others

By Indication

• Pain Management
  • Acute Pain
  • Chronic Pain
• Inflammatory Conditions
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Migraine
• Ophthalmic Diseases
• Others

By Dosage Form

• Tablets
• Capsules
• Creams
• Ointments
• Injectable
• Others

By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Parenteral
• Topical

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacy
• Retail Pharmacy
• Online Pharmacy

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 Middle East & Africa

List of Companies:

• Pfizer Inc.
• Johnson & Johnson
• Novartis AG
• Bayer AG
• AbbVie Inc.
• Merck & Co., Inc.
• GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK)
• Sanofi
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Horizon Therapeutics plc
• Perrigo Company plc
• Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH
• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Mylan N.V.
• Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.
• Aurobindo Pharma
• Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Zydus Lifesciences Limited

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)