Global Ophthalmology Drugs Market Projected to Reach $26.28 Billion by 2030

The global ophthalmology drugs market is projected to reach $26.28 billion by 2030, driven by a growing prevalence of vision-threatening diseases and aging populations. The market is led by North America, with companies advancing next-generation therapies to address treatment adherence and off-label drug use. Strategic shifts toward novel delivery systems and advanced modalities, such as gene therapies and sustained-release platforms, are also underway to redefine the competitive landscape.

The global ophthalmology drugs market is projected to reach $26.28 billion by 2030, driven by a growing prevalence of vision-threatening diseases and aging populations. This market, valued at $18.34 billion in 2024, is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 6.1% from 2025 to 2030 [1].

Market Drivers

The primary driver of this growth is the increasing prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and other retinal disorders. The aging population is a significant contributor to this trend, with AMD alone being a leading cause of blindness among older adults. This has driven substantial demand for anti-VEGF therapies, such as Eylea® (aflibercept), Lucentis® (ranibizumab), and Vabysmo® (faricimab) [1].

Challenges

Despite the growth, the market faces several challenges. Off-label drug use, particularly the use of bevacizumab (Avastin®) for AMD, diabetic macular edema (DME), and diabetic retinopathy (DR), remains a significant issue. This practice, supported by clinical evidence and policy decisions in key markets, continues to restrain the uptake of newer, higher-priced drugs. Additionally, treatment adherence remains a critical barrier, with frequent intravitreal injections impacting patient compliance [1].

Strategic Shifts

In response to these challenges, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are accelerating the development of novel delivery systems and advanced modalities. Gene therapies, such as Adverum Biotechnologies’ Ixoberogene soroparvovec (Ixo-vec), and sustained-release platforms are being explored to reduce treatment burden. Bayer and BlueRock Therapeutics have advanced OpCT-001, an iPSC-derived candidate for primary photoreceptor diseases, following FDA Fast Track designation in February 2025 [1].

Market Leadership and Regional Trends

North America remains the dominant market, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure, early disease detection, and favorable reimbursement frameworks, including Medicare coverage for anti-VEGF therapies. The market is led by four global players—Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Roche, Bayer, and Novartis—who command 80–85% of market revenues [1].

Recent Developments

Recent strategic developments include Teva partnering with Klinge Biopharma and Formycon to commercialize FYB203, an aflibercept biosimilar, in Europe and Israel. Roche secured EMA approval for Vabysmo prefilled syringe, the first bispecific antibody PFS for retinal conditions in the EU. These developments underscore the intense competitive environment and the strategic shifts underway in the market [1].

Conclusion

The global ophthalmology drugs market is at a pivotal moment, balancing the urgent need for innovative, long-lasting treatments with the economic realities of healthcare systems worldwide. The next five years will define competitive positioning in a sector critical to preserving vision and quality of life for an aging global population.

References

[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/global-ophthalmology-drugs-market-reach-140000556.html
[2] https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/glp-1-agonists-weight-loss-drugs-market-report