Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common ocular condition characterized by the inadequate production of tears, resulting in discomfort and inflammation of the eye. It affects people of all ages and is more prevalent in women than men. The symptoms of DES include redness, itching, burning, and a gritty sensation in the eyes, which can cause difficulties in daily activities such as reading or using a computer. DES can also lead to complications such as corneal ulcers, infections, and vision loss if left untreated.
The prevalence of DES is increasing globally, driven by factors such as aging populations, increased screen time, and environmental factors such as air pollution and climate change. According to a report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, an estimated 16.4 million Americans have been diagnosed with DES, and it is expected to affect over 29 million people in the United States alone by 2025. Similarly, in Europe, it is estimated that over 100 million people suffer from DES.
This rise in the prevalence of DES is driving the growth of the demulcent eye drops market. Demulcent eye drops are a type of lubricating eye drops that are used to provide relief from DES symptoms by reducing dryness and inflammation of the eye. They work by mimicking natural tears and providing a protective layer to the eye surface, reducing the discomfort and irritation associated with DES.
The demulcent eye drops market is segmented by product type, distribution channel, and geography. The product types include artificial tears, emollient ointments, and gels. Artificial tears are the most commonly used type of demulcent eye drops and are available over-the-counter at drugstores and supermarkets. Emollient ointments and gels are more viscous and are recommended for severe cases of DES or for nighttime use.
The distribution channels for demulcent eye drops include drugstores, supermarkets, online stores, and hospitals and clinics. Drugstores and supermarkets are the most common distribution channels for artificial tears, while emollient ointments and gels are typically sold in hospitals and clinics.
North America is currently the largest market for demulcent eye drops, followed by Europe and the Asia Pacific. The United States and Canada account for a significant share of the global market, driven by the high prevalence of DES and a well-established healthcare system. In Europe, countries such as Germany, France, and the UK are major contributors to the market, while the Asia Pacific is expected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by factors such as the large population, increasing geriatric population, and rising disposable income.
Key players in the demulcent eye drops market include Alcon, Inc., Bausch & Lomb, Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, Prestige Consumer Healthcare, Inc., and Thea Pharmaceuticals Ltd. These companies are focusing on product innovation and expansion strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, collaborations, and partnerships to gain a competitive edge in the market.
For instance, in September 2021, Bausch Health Companies Inc. announced that its subsidiary, Bausch + Lomb, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its Lubricant Eye Drops, a new over-the-counter product designed to provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. Similarly, in July 2021, Alcon launched its SYSTANE® HYDRATION Lubricant Eye Drops, a new over-the-counter product designed to provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.
In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of dry eye syndrome is driving the growth of the demulcent eye drops market, which is expected to continue growing at a steady pace during the forecast period.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Everest Market Insights journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
