Anti-Epileptic Drugs Market: Analysis By Drug Generation, By Distribution Channel, By Region Size and Trends with Impact of COVID-19 and Forecast up to 2028

The global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market in 2022 stood at US$9.39 billion and is likely to reach US$11.47 billion by 2028. Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) represent a non-invasive imaging technology that produces comprehensive images of internal body structures. By using a potent magnetic field and radio waves, MRI delivers high-resolution, three-dimensional images, often depicting soft tissues and organs with exceptional clarity. MRI provides enhanced detail for soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, and muscles, and avoids the use of ionizing radiation, thereby reducing the risk associated with exposure, unlike X-rays and CT scans. The escalating global incidence of epilepsy has amplified the need for potent therapeutic solutions. According to the World Health Organization, the global epilepsy population approaches 50 million, and this would rise on a steady pace.

In recent years, the growing need for anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) is notable, primarily due to their heightened effectiveness in controlling seizures. These drugs now come with fewer side effects, leading to increased patient compliance. Beyond just treating common epileptic episodes, AEDs are now central in addressing a range of epilepsy-related syndromes. Their significance extends to the broader realm of personalized neurological treatment, promising tailored care for patients. This evolution of AEDs not only benefits patients but also drives significant growth in the healthcare industry, marking them as essential in modern therapeutic approaches. The global anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.39% during the forecast period of 2023-2028.

Market Segmentation Analysis:

• By Drug Generation: The market report has segmented the global anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) market into three segments namely, First Generation, Second Generation, and Third Generation. In 2022, the second-generation anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) segment dominates the market due to their heightened efficacy and reduced side effects compared to first-generation AEDs. Originating in the late 1980s and 1990s, these drugs, including lamotrigine and pregabalin, have a broader therapeutic range and improved patient adherence. Despite a temporary disruption from the pandemic, their importance remained highlighted by enduring demand. Further, the third-generation anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) segment, during the forecasted period of 2023-2028, is expected to be the fastest-growing segment, owing to their advanced pharmacological profiles, minimized adverse effects, and the medical community's preference for newer, effective treatments.
• By Distribution Channel: Based on the distribution channel, the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market can be divided into three segments namely, drug stores & retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, and online providers. In 2022, the drug stores & retail pharmacies segment is the largest segment, attributed to its widespread presence and the convenience it offers. These outlets ensure easy accessibility, immediate availability of AEDs, and direct consultations with pharmacists, fostering trust among patients. Their resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the preference of certain demographics for in-person purchases, has further underscored their dominance in the Anti-Epileptic drug distribution landscape. Further, the online providers segment, during the forecasted period of 2023-2028, is expected to be the fastest-growing segment, owing to the sustained trust and convenience experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, advancements in digital healthcare, and their ability to cater to a wide geographic audience without physical infrastructure, emphasizing scalability and efficiency.
• By Region: According to this report, the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market can be divided into five major regions: North America (The US, Canada, and Mexico), Europe (Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and the Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, and the Rest of Asia Pacific), Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. In 2022, North America dominates the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market due to a confluence of factors such as its robust healthcare infrastructure, technological advancements in treatments, and the introduction of innovative therapies by leading pharmaceutical players like Pfizer. Additionally, government-led initiatives, particularly the CDC's epilepsy awareness programs, have played a pivotal role in increasing treatment accessibility and awareness. These combined elements have established North America as a frontrunner in the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs market landscape. The US holds the largest share in the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs market due to its unparalleled healthcare infrastructure, leading medical research institutions, and the FDA's efficiency in approving novel treatments.
• The Asia Pacific Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2028, driven by the rising number of epilepsy cases, rapid healthcare developments, especially in populous countries like India and China, and significant technological advancements in the pharmaceutical sector. India's Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market is poised to be the fastest-growing in the Asia Pacific, fueled by rapid urbanization, increasing awareness of neurological disorders, and government initiatives like the National Health Policy 2017 emphasizing epilepsy care.

Global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) Market Dynamics:

• Growth Drivers: The rise in global Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases, particularly epilepsy, has significantly driven the demand for antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Enhanced awareness, diagnosis of epilepsy, and advanced therapeutic options have further bolstered the Anti-Epileptic Drugs market. Consequently, the growth of the Anti-Epileptic Drugs market mirrors the expanding CNS disease landscape, underlining the critical role of CNS conditions in shaping the Anti-Epileptic Drugs industry. Further, the market is expected to grow owing to the growing geriatric population, increasing prevalence of epilepsy, government initiatives and funding, enhanced awareness and advancements in early diagnosis techniques, global expansion of pharmaceutical companies, advancement in antiepileptic drugs development, etc. in recent years.
• Challenges: The imminent patent expirations of key anti-epileptic drugs challenge the global Anti-Epileptic Drugs market's growth. As brands like Xcopri emerge, companies, including SK Biopharmaceuticals, are under pressure to innovate while addressing post-launch economic constraints. Balancing innovation with the looming patent expiry countdown is vital, especially when ensuring diverse treatments for varying patient needs. Thus, patent expirations and innovation are shaping the Anti-Epileptic Drugs market's future trajectory. Additionally, other factors like lack of accessibility and associated adverse effects, etc. are other challenges to the market.
• Market Trends: Emerging markets are crucial for the antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) market growth from 2023-2028. Their investment in healthcare reflects a commitment to well-being, increasing the demand for advanced treatments like AEDs. Improved patient access and the developing nature of these economies offer significant growth potential and innovation for the Anti-Epileptic Drugs market. More trends in the market are believed to grow the Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market during the forecasted period, which may include the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), increasing research & development, integration of nasal sprays as rescue therapy, development of drug delivery systems, integration of genomic sequencing and personalized medicine, etc.

Impact Analysis of COVID-19 and Way Forward:

The global anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) market encountered significant challenges in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Key pharmaceutical regions, such as China and India, experienced supply chain disruptions leading to anti-epileptic drug shortages. These were further exacerbated by an unexpected surge in demand. The pandemic's focus also delayed routine epilepsy diagnoses and treatments. Concurrently, heightened pandemic-induced mental health issues interplayed with epilepsy care, emphasizing their intertwined relationship. Economic downturns highlighted concerns over drug affordability, especially where healthcare isn't universally available. Post-pandemic, the anti-epileptic drugs market landscape underscores the need for enhanced supply chain resilience and integrated digital healthcare. As the global community pivots to a new normal, opportunities emerge to reshape epilepsy care, prioritizing technological innovations, mental well-being, and fortified healthcare systems.

Competitive Landscape and Recent Developments:

The global Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market is a fragmented space shaped by innovation and evolution. Multiple AED generations offer diverse treatments, exemplified by the shift from side-effect-prone first-generation drugs to third-generation ones with novel mechanisms of action. This diversity, with combined treatment approaches and unique drug effects, accentuates market fragmentation.

Further, key players in the Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs) market are:

• Pfizer Inc.
• UCB Inc.
• Novartis AG
• GlaxoSmithKline Plc
• Sanofi S.A.
• Eisai Co. Ltd.
• Johnson & Johnson (Janssen Pharmaceuticals)
• Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
• Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. (Sunovion Pharmaceuticals)
• Abbott Laboratories
• TEVA Pharmaceutical Industries Limited
• Viatris Inc. (Mylan)
• Merck & Co., Inc.
• SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.

Product-wise, Pfizer showcases a plethora of Anti-Epileptic Drugs, ensuring varied potency, sustainability, and therapeutic potential, including the innovative compound Lyrica for neuropathic pain. Novartis, in its repertoire, boasts a blend of broad-spectrum and targeted AEDs, with the likes of Tegretol and Trileptal. Strategic collaborations, like UCB's partnership with Microsoft for seizure prediction wearables, and M&As, like UCB's acquisition of Zogenix, influence the market landscape. New offerings, like Sun Pharmaceutical's Brivaracetam and Marinus Pharmaceuticals' ZTALMY®, continue reshaping the market dominated by major brands.