BASAL INSULIN MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)

The basal insulin market size is expected to reach US$ 31.3 Billion by 2030, from US$ 16.3 Bn in 2023, at a CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period. Basal insulin is a long-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in people with diabetes. It is taken once or twice daily to provide a background level of insulin. The advantages of basal insulin are stable blood sugar levels, fewer hypoglycemic events, and convenience of an injection regimen. The growth drivers include rising diabetes prevalence, increasing obesity rates, improved insulin delivery devices, and higher diagnosis rates globally.

The basal insulin market is segmented based on type, delivery device, indication, age group distribution channel, and region. By type, the market is segmented into glargine, detemir, and degludec. The glargine segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 owing to its ability to provide 24-hour coverage with low risk of hypoglycemia.

Basal Insulin Market Regional Insights:

• North America is expected to be the largest market for basal insulin during the forecast period, accounting for over 43.2% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market in North America is attributed to the high diabetes prevalence, favorable reimbursement policies, and early adoption of advanced insulin delivery devices. For instance, according to Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 37.3 million people had diabetes in the U.S. in 2022, and a total of 28.7 million people were diagnosed including 28.5 million adults.
• Europe is expected to be the second-largest market for the basal insulin market, accounting for over 25.2% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market in is attributed to the rising geriatric population and increasing awareness about diabetes management.
• Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing market for basal insulin, growing at a CAGR of over 12.1% during the forecast period. The growth of the market in Asia Pacific is attributed to the rapidly increasing diabetic population and healthcare expenditure in emerging countries.

Figure 1. Global Basal Insulin Market Share (%), by Region, 2023

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Analyst’s Views

The basal insulin market is expected to witness steady growth in the coming years. The increasing prevalence of diabetes across both developing and developed nations will be a major driver. As per the International Diabetes Federation, over 500 million people are estimated to have diabetes by 2030. This rising patient base necessitates effective management of blood glucose levels through basal insulin drugs. Furthermore, opportunities exist in the hospital segment owing to the growing number of diabetes-related hospital admissions.

However, the market also faces certain challenges. Stringent regulations for the approval of biosimilar insulin products may deter innovation and market entry of new players. This acts as a restraint. Additionally, the high costs of branded basal insulin drugs remain an affordability issue in developing regions. Patients often resort to cheaper generic alternatives. New drug delivery mechanisms like insulin pumps also impact the acceptance of conventional basal insulin drugs.

Regionally, North America currently dominates the market led by the US and rising healthcare spending. However, Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth attributed to China and India's large diabetic population and improving access to diabetes care. Meanwhile, Europe will remain an important market backed by favorable reimbursement policies and initiatives for diabetes care. Overall, with no cure currently available, regular basal insulin therapy will continue to be essential for long-term glycemic control in diabetes patients.

Basal Insulin Market Drivers:

• Increasing Prevalence of Diabetes: The rising prevalence of diabetes around the world is a major factor driving growth in the basal insulin market. According to International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 537 million adults aged 20-79 years were living with diabetes in 2021. This number is expected to reach 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. The high and growing prevalence of diabetes globally has led to an increased demand for effective blood sugar management drugs like basal insulin. Basal insulin helps provide steady background insulin levels and lower blood glucose effectively in diabetes patients.
• Rising Obesity Rates: The increasing obesity rates across the globe is another key driver for the basal insulin market. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report 2021, the worldwide prevalence of obesity nearly tripled between 1975 and 2016. Obesity is a major risk factor for development of type 2 diabetes. Obese and overweight people are more likely to develop insulin resistance, which raises blood glucose levels and increases the requirement for basal insulin to control hyperglycemia. The high and rising obese population globally will continue to propel the market growth during the forecast period.
• Technological Advancements in Insulin Delivery Devices: Significant improvements in insulin delivery devices like pens, pumps, jet injectors, and smart insulin patches have boosted the adoption of basal insulin therapy. Insulin pens provide ease of use, accuracy, and flexibility over traditional syringes. Insulin pumps deliver customizable and precise amounts of rapid or short-acting insulin. The integration of insulin pumps with continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMs) has improved glycemic control by enabling automatic basal rate adjustments. Advanced and easy-to-use delivery devices have made basal insulin administration more patient-friendly, supporting market expansion.
• Government Initiatives to Improve Diabetes Management: Several government initiatives to promote diabetes education, awareness, and improve access to medications are contributing to the basal insulin market growth. The introduction of national programs focusing on preventive diabetes care has increased insulin utilization. Government policies to make insulin more affordable via discounts, subsidies, and reimbursements have also enabled higher adoption among low-income groups. Increased government spending on diabetes management will further support the market growth.

Basal Insulin Market Opportunities:

• Huge Untapped Market Potential in Developing Countries: Developing nations represent significant untapped opportunities for companies in the basal insulin market owing to the high diabetic population and low insulin usage in these countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and others. Regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America have a large number of undiagnosed and untreated diabetes patients due to lack of awareness and access to medications. With rising incomes and healthcare spending, insulin adoption is increasing in these regions. Market players are expanding their presence in developing countries to capitalize on the massive unmet needs and strong growth prospects.
• Growing Demand for Biosimilars: The expiry of patents on several widely used basal insulin analogues has opened doors for manufacturers to introduce low-cost biosimilar versions. The high cost of branded basal insulin has limited adoption among low-income groups. The launch of affordable basal insulin biosimilars improves access for patients in emerging economies. Moreover, payers are promoting biosimilar adoption to reduce the economic burden of diabetes. The growing demand for biosimilars due to their cost advantages provides significant opportunities for growth.
• Rising Adoption of Prefilled Pens and Injectable Devices: The shift from vials and syringes towards convenient pen and injectable devices for insulin delivery presents lucrative opportunities for market players. Prefilled insulin pens offer ease of use, accuracy, convenience, and flexibility. Disposable pens prevent reuse and help avoid infection risks associated with needles. Injectable and wearable devices like patches also eliminate the need for daily injections. User-friendly pens and injection devices will find higher adoption among both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients, driving segmental growth. For instance, in March 2023, Novo Nordisk Inc., a multinational biopharmaceutical company, announced that it is reducing the list pricing of many insulin treatments for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes by up to 75% in the U.S. Products include vials of basal (long-acting), bolus (short-acting), and pre-mix insulin including Novolin, NovoLog, Levemir (insulin detemir), and NovoLog Mix 70/30. Additionally, pre-filled pens are also available. Along with each branded insulin's price reduction, Novo Nordisk is also lowering the list price of unbranded biologics.
• Increasing Online Sales Platforms: The growing e-commerce industry and internet penetration globally has opened up opportunities for increased online sales of basal insulin delivery devices and medications. Online pharmacies make it more convenient for patients to purchase insulin drugs and devices. Moreover, online platforms offer attractive discounts and deals, which increase affordability. Partnerships with digital health companies also allow access to a wider patient pool. Increasing online availability of basal insulin presents a major opportunity for manufacturers.

Basal Insulin Market Trends:

• Increasing Usage of Insulin Pens and Pumps: One of the key trends stimulating growth in the basal insulin market is the rising use of insulin pens and pump devices. Insulin pens provide simplicity, accuracy, and convenience over syringes for patients who need multiple daily injections. Pens have dose memory, are easier to handle, and suitable for self-administration. Insulin pumps deliver rapid-acting insulin continuously mimicking pancreatic secretion. Pumps offer greater flexibility and precision in insulin dosing via programmable basal rates and bolus dose calculations.
• Combination Therapies for Improved Diabetes Management: The growing use of combination basal insulin formulations and complementary non-insulin anti-diabetics is another prominent trend in the industry. Combinations like insulin plus GLP-1 receptor agonists improve glycemic control and weight management. Fixed-ratio combination of basal insulin and fast-acting insulin provide effective blood glucose management with low risk of hypoglycemia and fewer daily jabs. The adoption of combination regimen is increasing due to their synergistic effects and added benefits over monotherapies.
• Advancements in Digital Diabetes Care Solutions: Increasing integration of digital technologies like mobile apps, wearable devices, sensors, and Internet of Things (IoT) with insulin delivery systems is an important trend boosting market outlook. Mobile apps aid in analyzing data, tracking meals, activity, and providing support. CGM systems like Dexcom allow real-time glucose monitoring and disease management. Connected smart insulin pens and pumps enable remote monitoring and data sharing. Incorporation of AI and analytics provides personalized insights that optimize insulin therapy. Digital health solutions are improving patient engagement, treatment adherence and health outcomes. For instance, in April 2022, Abbott, a global healthcare company, CamDiab, a digital health and personalized medicine company, and Ypsomed, a manufacturer of injection and infusion systems, announced a collaboration to develop and commercialize an integrated automated insulin delivery (AID) system to help people with diabetes lessen the burden of round-the-clock diabetes management. The partnership's initial focus will be on European nations.
• Growing Popularity of Insulin Therapies in Veterinary Medicine: The increasing use of basal insulin therapy for managing diabetes in cats and dogs is a promising trend broadening market applications. Insulin products like Vetsulin, Prozinc, Caninsulin, and Insuvet are gaining popularity for controlling hyperglycemia in diabetic pets. Pet health expenditure is rising globally, driven by increasing companion animal adoption. The higher veterinary use of insulin drugs presents lucrative expansion opportunities beyond the traditional human medicine sector.

Basal Insulin Market Restraints:

• High Cost of Branded Insulin Analogs: The high cost of patented and branded basal insulin analogs has been a major factor restraining the market growth, especially in developing economies. Long-acting analogs are considerably more expensive than traditional insulin. Many uninsured and underinsured patients are unable to afford the high prices of branded drugs. Pricing pressures also strain healthcare resources and payer budgets, limiting reimbursements. The premium pricing of patented insulin products has restricted their adoption among low-income patient groups.
• Side Effects such as Hypoglycemia and Allergic Reactions: Safety concerns regarding adverse effects like hypoglycemia and allergic reactions are impeding uptake of certain basal insulin formulations. Prolonged hypoglycemia is the most common side effect and can result in exacerbation of existing medical ailments. Allergic reactions to insulin or excipients may also occur in some patients. Severe hypoglycemia and hypersensitivity reactions can limit persistency. This has made healthcare providers cautious regarding high-dose basal insulin prescriptions. For instance, according to the U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), the most common side effects associated with insulin glargine products other than hypoglycemia include edema (fluid retention), lipodystrophy (pitting at the injection site), weight gain and allergic reactions, such as injection site reactions, rash, redness, pain, and severe itching.
• Insufficient Healthcare Infrastructure in Developing Regions: The lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure and facilities in emerging economies is a major bottleneck hindering market penetration. Many rural areas lack diabetes clinics, trained medical professionals, and cold storage supply chain for drugs. Poor health literacy regarding insulin usage and administration also exists. Healthcare spending and reimbursements are low in low-income countries. The dearth of proper medical infrastructure has deterred the adoption of injectable basal insulin therapy in developing regions.

Recent Developments:

New product launches:

• In March 2023, Eli Lilly and Company, a U.S.-based pharmaceutical company, announced its plans to launch Rezvoglar, an interchangeable insulin glargine biosimilar, at a 78% discount to the originator (Lantus). In November 2022, Rezvolgar (insuling glargine-aglr) became the fourth biosimilar to be authorized and given an interchangeability designation.
• In November 2021, Viatris Inc., a global healthcare company, and Biocon Biologics Ltd., a subsidiary of Biocon, announced the launch of interchangeable biosimilars SEMGLEE (insulin glargine-yfgn) injection, a branded product, and Insulin Glargine injection, an unbranded product, in the U.S. to help control high blood sugar in adult and pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes and adults with type 2 diabetes.
• In September 2022, Novo Nordisk Inc., a global biopharmaceutical company, announced the launch of Tresiba (insulin degludec) injection, a long-acting, once-daily basal insulin intended to treat high blood sugar in diabetics aged 1 year or older

Acquisitions and partnerships:

• In September 2023, Biocon Biologics Ltd., announced that the company has completed the integration of the acquired biosimilars business from Viatris, a worldwide pharmaceutical and healthcare organization in North America, which includes insulin biosimilars such as Semglee (Insulin Glargine)
• In May 2023, Medtronic plc, a healthcare technology company, announced that it has entered into a set of definitive agreements to acquire EOFlow Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of the EOPatch device, a tubeless, wearable and fully disposable insulin delivery device
• In October 2022, PureHealth, a U.A.E.-based medical devices company, announced the launch of the first factory in the Middle East to produce Glargine (the first long-acting biological alternative to insulin) for the treatment of diabetes in partnership with Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries Company (Julphar), one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the U.A.E.

Figure 2. Global Basal Insulin Market Share (%), by Type, 2023

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Top companies in Basal Insulin Market:

• Novo Nordisk
• Sanofi
• Eli Lilly and Company
• Biocon
• Gan & Lee Pharmaceuticals
• Tonghua Dongbao Pharmaceutical
• United Laboratories
• Merck
• Wockhardt
• Julphar Diabetes
• Medtronic
• Beta Bionics
• Zealand Pharma
• MannKind
• Peptron
• Dexcom
• Senseonics
• Medtrum Technologies
• SOOIL Development
• Semma Therapeutics

Definition: Basal insulin is a long-acting type of insulin used to control high blood sugar in people with diabetes. It is taken once or twice a day to maintain normal blood glucose levels by providing a steady, low level of insulin throughout the day and night. Basal insulin includes long-acting, intermediate-acting, and ultra-long acting formulations. The global basal insulin market comprises pharmaceutical companies manufacturing and supplying basal insulin products such as vials, pens, pumps, and other delivery devices. The market is driven by the rising global prevalence of diabetes and advancements in insulin delivery methods. It aims to provide effective glycemic control and improve diabetes management for patients.