Diabetes drug market set for $163.79b as type 2 cases climb

This is fuelled by ageing population and sedentary lifestyles.

The global diabetes drug market is projected to hit $163.79b by 2034, driven by rising global diabetes rates, particularly type 2, fuelled by ageing populations, sedentary lifestyles, and increasing obesity, according to Polaris Market Research. 

New drug classes, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors, are also propelling demand, alongside growing focus on managing related conditions such as heart and kidney disease, it said.

By type, type-2 diabetes holds the larger revenue share, supported by advances in insulin therapies and delivery systems.

By route of administration, oral drugs dominate, led by metformin and SGLT-2 inhibitors. For drug class, insulin remains the largest segment, particularly for type-1 diabetes, whilst SGLT-2 inhibitors are the fastest-growing category due to added cardiovascular and renal benefits.

North America holds the largest market share, underpinned by high diabetes prevalence and a robust healthcare system. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region, driven by rising diabetes cases and improving healthcare access.