About Contact Us Careers

Painkillers Market Size and Forecast, by Product (OTC Products, Prescription Drugs); Drug Class; Indication; Route of Administration; Distribution Channel - Growth Trends, Key Players, Regional Analysis 2026-2035

  • Report ID: 6691
  • Published Date: Sep 18, 2025
  • Report Format: PDF, PPT

Painkillers Market Outlook:

Painkillers Market size was valued at USD 76.45 billion in 2025 and is likely to cross USD 114.26 billion by 2035, registering more than 4.1% CAGR during the forecast period i.e., between 2026-2035. In the year 2026, the industry size of painkillers is assessed at USD 79.27 billion.

Painkillers Market size
Discover Market Trends & Growth Opportunities: Request Free Sample PDF

The increasing availability of pain medicines through online and retail stores has propelled growth in this industry. With the integration of IoT and other connecting technologies in healthcare, their access to immediate and long-term pain-relieving medications has increased. This further contributes to the expansion by providing direct access to easily available options, particularly OTC products.

The surge in the painkillers market is also influenced by the growing population of aged people across the world. They often are diagnosed with chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, arthritis, and other painful ailments, which require access to regular medication to offer relief. According to a WHO report published in October 2024, the global population of 60 years or more old people is expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050. The number of 80-year-old people is also estimated to triple, accounting to be 426 million in 2050. This will increase the incidence rate of common painful diseases, creating a huge consumer base for pain medications and other relieving modalities.

Key Painkillers Market Insights Summary:

  • Regional Highlights:

    • North America painkillers market will account for 45.90% share by 2035, driven by rapid development in healthcare including pain management.

  • Segment Insights:

    • The otc segment segment in the painkillers market is forecasted to maintain a 52.70% share by 2035, driven by general availability reducing doctor visits and suitability for mild to moderate pain.
    • The local anesthetics segment in the painkillers market is projected to achieve great growth till 2035, influenced by increasing surgical interventions and development of new, longer-acting formulations.

  • Key Growth Trends:

    • Increasing awareness about pain management
    • Continued drug discoveries

  • Major Challenges:

    • Regulatory concerns on side effects
    • Volatility in price and raw material availability

  • Key Players: Pfizer Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Bayer AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Sanofi S.A., Merck & Co., Inc., AstraZeneca plc, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

Global Painkillers Market Forecast and Regional Outlook:

  • Market Size & Growth Projections:

    • 2025 Market Size: USD 76.45 billion
    • 2026 Market Size: USD 79.27 billion
    • Projected Market Size: USD 114.26 billion by 2035
    • Growth Forecasts: 4.1% CAGR (2026-2035)

  • Key Regional Dynamics:

    • Largest Region: North America (45.9% Share by 2035)
    • Fastest Growing Region: Asia Pacific
    • Dominating Countries: United States, China, Japan, Germany, United Kingdom
    • Emerging Countries: China, India, Brazil, Mexico, Russia

    • Last updated on : 18 September, 2025

Growth Drivers

  • Increasing awareness about pain management: As the prevalence of chronic diseases and injuries increases, the demand in the painkillers market also multiplies. Occurrences of conditions such as back pain, migraines, and diabetic neuropathy are becoming more frequent due to the rapid lifestyle change. The pharma companies are taking action to add fast pain recovery solutions in their portfolio for these suffering people through targeted treatments. For instance, in October 2022, Pfizer acquired Biohaven to provide its consumers with a range of CGRP receptor antagonists. The newly added portfolio will now include NURTEC ODT, VYDURA, and other intranasal sprays.

  • Continued drug discoveries: Innovations have had a positive impact on the painkillers market where companies are devoting R&D to developing non-addictive products. In May 2022, the University of Arizona Health Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences partnered to conduct their extensive research on modern therapeutics, fighting the opioid crisis. The government is also issuing accelerated approvals for fast circulation and general availability of these pain relievers. Technological advancement in manufacturing has evaluated drug delivery methods in the form of injections, transdermal patches, and topical applications. Such diverse applicability has increased the usage of novel therapeutics and solutions.

Challenges

  • Regulatory concerns on side effects: Drugs such as opioids are raising questions about consumer safety and side effects on usage. This may create regulatory restrictions on product distribution in the painkillers market. Further, leads to limitations in access for patients in need of pain management therapeutics. Certain NSAIDs may affect health due to addiction, gastrointestinal issues, and organ damage. This can create safety concerns among consumers, reducing optimum usage and profit margins.
  • Volatility in price and raw material availability: Fluctuating prices and supply of certain components also may hinder the growth in the painkillers market. Shifting consumer preference towards non-opioid drugs requires specific components to be produced. This can create difficulties for manufacturers to produce medications with minimum risks. Further, it can refrain companies from investing in research and development in this industry.

Painkillers Market Size and Forecast:

Report Attribute Details

Base Year

2025

Forecast Period

2026-2035

CAGR

4.1%

Base Year Market Size (2025)

USD 76.45 billion

Forecast Year Market Size (2035)

USD 114.26 billion

Regional Scope

  • North America (U.S. and Canada)
  • Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia, Rest of Asia Pacific)
  • Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, NORDIC, Rest of Europe)
  • Latin America (Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Rest of Latin America)
  • Middle East and Africa (Israel, GCC North Africa, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East and Africa)
Access Detailed Forecasts & Data-Driven Insights: Request Free Sample PDF

Painkillers Market Segmentation:

 Product Segment Analysis

OTC segment is set to dominate around 52.7% painkillers market share by the end of 2035. The general availability of these drugs has reduced the extensive cost of doctor visits for non-critical pain management. This has further propelled the demand for OTC supplements in use for mild to moderate pain such as headaches, muscle aches, back pain, and other minor injuries. Companies are producing various forms including Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, topical agencies, and hybrid drugs. For instance, in March 2020, GSK received FDA approval for Advil Dual Action, a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen to be circulated for pain relief. Such diversity makes them applicable to curing a wide range of pain or discomfort, promoting its effectiveness.

Drug Class Segment Analysis

Based on drug class, the painkillers market is projected to experience great development in the local anesthetics segment by 2035. The growth is owed to the increasing rate of surgical interventions in every medical category. Being a crucial part of performing surgical and dental procedures without causing pain, has accelerated the demand for this segment. These also have a usage in chronic pain conditions, making them more desirable for effective post or non-operative management. Companies are now developing new formulations to acquire elongated and targeted impact, improving patient outcomes. For instance, in May 2021, Heron launched its FDA-approved ZYNRELEF for full-fledged use in managing post-operational pain. The dual-acting local anesthetic can serve for 72 hours duration after bunionectomy.

Our in-depth analysis of the painkillers market includes the following segments:

Product
  • OTC Products
  • Prescription Drugs

Drug Class
  • Opioids
  • Tramadol
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydrocodone
  • Other Opioids
  • NSAIDs
  • Local Anesthetics
  • Acetaminophen

Indication
  • Surgical Pain
  • Cancer Pain
  • Neuropathic Pain
  • Musculoskeletal and Joint Pain
  • Others

Route of Administration
  • Injectable
  • Oral
  • Rectal
  • Topical
  • Transdermal
  • Others 

Distribution Channel
  • Hospital Pharmacies
  • Specialty Clinics
  • Long-Term Care Centers
  • Retail Pharmacies
  • Drug Stores
  • Online Pharmacies 
Vishnu Nair
Vishnu Nair
Head - Global Business Development

Customize this report to your requirements — connect with our consultant for personalized insights and options.

Painkillers Market Regional Analysis:

North America Market Insights

North America industry is likely to account for largest revenue share of 45.9% by 2035,  Rapid development in healthcare including pain management has driven significant growth in this region. Due to faster recovery and effectiveness, these supplements have become one of the most selling medical products in this landscape. Many healthcare organizations and specialty doctors have also helped to promote such efficient therapeutics to control or manage symptoms. This has encouraged companies to extend their product portfolio, generating larger revenue. For instance, in March 2023, Pfizer received approval for ZAVZPRET for instant pain relief from migraine in just 15 minutes. The CGRP nasal spray opens a new healthcare category to serve.

The U.S. is one of the fastest-growing countries in the painkillers market due to increasing incidences of chronic pain. According to a CDC report published in April 2023, 20.9% of the adults in this country suffered from mild to moderate chronic pain in 2021. The report further states that the number of severe chronic pain cases accounted to be 17.1 million in the same year. Such frequent prevalence requires a continuous supply of reliable pain management supplements, garnering greater growth potential in this industry.

Canada is projected to foster lucrative opportunities for global leaders during the forecast period. The ongoing opioid crisis is pushing manufacturers to introduce new formulations to attain non-adverse properties in drugs or other therapeutics. This has further influenced companies to invest in R&D, creating a great developmental scope for businesses to outstretch their reach. For instance, in February 2024, Health Canada approved Maxigesic IV by Hyloris for marketing in Canada. This non-opioid pain-relieving drug will pave the way to restore opioid impact on the country’s healthcare and economy.

Europe Market Insights

Europe is growing to present diversity and development in the painkillers market in upcoming years due to the rising awareness about pain management in this region. The rising demand for analgesic drugs is majorly driven by the increasing incidences of chronic diseases. The region is highly influenced by technological advancement, which pushes drug innovation to introduce new alternatives in the industry. The government has taken strict actions to prevent opioid abuse, leveraging the demand for OTC products due to market availability. As a result, drugs such as NSAIDs, paracetamol, and alternatives are gaining traction due to the rising need for medication. 

The U.K. is presenting a promising scope of development in the painkillers market due to innovative products introduced by global leaders. The companies are accelerating their R&D in developing novel solutions for effective pain management. They are also focusing on reducing the risk of addiction through these new formulations. For instance, in August 2024, Levicept announced the success of a phase-II trial for Neurotrophin-3 Inhibitor, LEVI-04. The thorough study shows positive results of this drug usage for moderate to severe pain relief in osteoarthritis patients.

Spain is projected to generate remarkable revenue from its painkillers market by the end of 2035. The country is leveraging the scale of production and development in this sector to participate in international competition. For instance, in October 2021, Esteve received approval from the FDA for a co-crystal form of celecoxib and tramadol to be used for acute pain relief. Such R&D products will help domestic companies to consolidate their presence in the U.S. industry. Further, it creates an opportunity to strengthen the country’s international business.

Painkillers Market Share
Get Strategic Analysis by Region Now: Request Free Sample PDF

Painkillers Market Players:

    The popularity of complementary therapeutics and medical cannabis are gaining traction in this sector. However, the painkillers market is now shifting towards developing sustainable properties in supplements. This is further changing the dynamics of the industry through offering innovative solutions for effective pain management. For instance, in April 2022, Genexa launched Clean Acetaminophen Pain Relief Products for Adults. The new products are manufactured without using artificial dyes, fillers, and preservatives, making the series a first-of-its-kind alternative solution for pain management. These innovations are propelling the market to grow higher in the upcoming years. Such key players include:

    • Pfizer Inc.
      • Company Overview
      • Business Strategy
      • Key Product Offerings
      • Financial Performance
      • Key Performance Indicators
      • Risk Analysis
      • Recent Development
      • Regional Presence
      • SWOT Analysis
    • Johnson & Johnson
    • Novartis AG
    • GlaxoSmithKline plc
    • Bayer AG
    • Eli Lilly and Company
    • Sanofi S.A.
    • Merck & Co., Inc.
    • AstraZeneca plc
    • Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
    • Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc.
    • Latigo Bio

Recent Developments

  • In April 2024, Vertex approved the rolling for Suzetrigine in moderate-to-severe acute pain. The company is considering the VX-548 approvals as a part of the advancements in the Suzetrigine pain program to serve as a new class of medicine for acute and neuropathic pain.
  • In February 2024, Latigo Bio received USD 135 million in series A financing from Westlake. The grant will be used to develop advanced non-opioid pain medicines, expanding the company’s novel pain therapeutics portfolio.
  • Report ID: 6691
  • Published Date: Sep 18, 2025
  • Report Format: PDF, PPT
  • Get detailed insights on specific segments/region
  • Inquire about report customization for your industry
  • Learn about our special pricing for startups
  • Request a demo of the report’s key findings
  • Understand the report’s forecasting methodology
  • Inquire about post-purchase support and updates
  • Ask About Company-Level Intelligence Additions

Have specific data needs or budget constraints?

customer-service Inquiry Before Buying

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In the year 2026, the industry size of painkillers is assessed at USD 79.27 billion.

The global painkillers market size was valued at over USD 76.45 billion in 2025 and is expected to register a CAGR of over 4.1%, exceeding USD 114.26 billion revenue by 2035.

North America painkillers market will account for 45.90% share by 2035, driven by rapid development in healthcare including pain management.

Key players in the market include Pfizer Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Bayer AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Sanofi S.A., Merck & Co., Inc., AstraZeneca plc, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

Painkillers Market Report Scope

GET A FREE SAMPLE

FREE Sample Copy includes market overview, growth trends, statistical charts & tables, forecast estimates, and much more.

Connect with our Expert

Radhika Pawar
Radhika Pawar
Senior Research Analyst
Get a Free Sample

See how top U.S. companies are managing market uncertainty — get your free sample with trends, challenges, macroeconomic factors, charts, forecasts, and more.

Inquiry Before Buying Request Free Sample PDF

Copyright @ 2025 Research Nester. All Rights Reserved.

footer-bottom-logos