Epilepsy Drugs Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (First Generation Anti-epileptics, Second Generation Anti-epileptics, Third Generation Anti-epileptics), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

Epilepsy Drugs Market Size & Trends

The global epilepsy drugs market size was valued at USD 10.15 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2023 to 2030. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder affecting people of all ages. As the global population continues to grow and age, the prevalence of epilepsy is expected to rise, which drives the market. People over 65 years of age face a high incidence rate of epilepsy. As per the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2023 stats, one of the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide is epilepsy, with over 1% of Americans suffering from this condition. In addition, as per the World Health Organization, epilepsy affects about 50 million people globally. More people suffer from epilepsy than disorders such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease combined.

The rising number of drugs for treating epilepsy approved by government bodies is also a major factor driving market growth. Increased awareness about epilepsy, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis has resulted in a higher number of patients seeking medical attention. Various organizations, including Epilepsy Foundation, Narayana Health, Epilepsy Society, and Epilepsy Association of Western and Central PA, among others, are involved to promote and educate about epilepsy. This has led to an increased diagnosis rate, creating a larger patient pool in need of epilepsy drugs.

According to Seizure – European Journal of Epilepsy in 2020, approximately in 1,00,000 to 1,20,000 children are hospitalized for epilepsy related conditions. Such facts highlight the importance of effective treatment and prevention strategies. Timely and appropriate management of epilepsy, including accurate diagnosis, optimized medication regimens, and personalized care plans, can help reduce the need for hospitalization and improve overall outcomes.

Pharmaceutical companies are investing in research and development to develop new and improved drugs for the treatment of epilepsy. These advancements have led to the introduction of novel drugs with better efficacy, fewer side effects and affordable range, expanding the options available for patients and driving market growth.

For instance, in May 2023, Angelini Pharma announced its plans to provide an upfront payment and invest an additional USD 505.5 million in JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. for the development of a new treatment for epilepsy. In another instance, in June 2021, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. launched the anti-epileptic Rufinamide tablets in the U.S. market. Such initiatives and improvements in the treatment processes would likely drive the market for epilepsy drugs.

Technological advancements in the field of diagnostics and monitoring devices have improved the detection and management of epilepsy. These advancements, such as brain imaging techniques and wearable seizure detection devices, have enhanced the overall management of epilepsy and increased the demand for accompanying drugs. In January 2023, Zydus Group introduced Topiramate extended-release capsules, in the U.S. for curing epilepsy. The company received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to introduce the product in the market.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the epilepsy drugs industry. The pandemic led to disruptions in global supply chains, affecting the production and distribution of medications, including epilepsy drugs. Restrictions on manufacturing, transportation delays, and increased demand for healthcare resources resulted in shortages or delays in drug availability, impacting the epilepsy drug market.

During this period, there were shifts in healthcare utilization patterns, with many non-emergency medical appointments being postponed or canceled. This has affected the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of epilepsy patients. Reduced access to healthcare facilities and decreased patient visits may have impacted the prescription rates and sales of epilepsy drugs. The pandemic also highlighted the need to invest in healthcare facilities and the research & development of new and improved medicines.  

Product Insights

Based on product, the third generation anti-epileptics segment accounted for the largest revenue share of around 39.3% in 2022. The methods of action of third generation anti-epileptic medications differ from first- and second-generation anti-epileptic drugs, including inhibition of neurotransmitter release, blockage of excitatory amino acid receptors, and novel approaches to sodium channel inactivation. The probability of treating epileptic products resistant to earlier anticonvulsants increases with new mechanisms of action in third generation.

Third-generation anti-epileptics have minimal tendency to interact with antiepileptic and other medications, which is considered as a significant advantage, making their prescription considerably simpler and safer for neurologists. The increasing prevalence of epilepsy and improvements in third generation anti-epileptic approaches are the main factors driving segment growth. 

Second generation anti-epileptics are expected to be the second-fastest-growing segment. This segment includes Lamotrigine (Lamictal), Levetiracetam (Keppra), Brivaracetam (Briviact), and Perampanel (Fycompa). This growth is attributed to the high tolerability and safety of these drugs due to the launch of highly potent drugs, which employ novel mechanisms of action and increase the approval rates of these drugs.

For instance, in February 2022, Amring Pharmaceuticals Inc. received FDA approval for its new generic Lamotrigine ODT drug. The drug is helpful for epilepsy adjunctive therapy in patients aged 2 years and older. Second-generation drugs are widely used for epilepsy treatment by neurologists and physicians. These anti-epileptics drugs are successful in reducing the seizures and duration between two seizures, making them more useful than other drugs.

Regional Insights

North America dominated the market with the largest revenue share of around 45% in 2022. The high prevalence of epilepsy in the region, with a significant number of people affected by the condition, is a major driving factor for the epilepsy drugs market. According to the CDC, in 2015, approximately 470,000 children and 3 million adults were diagnosed with epilepsy in the U.S. Increased awareness about the condition and its symptoms in the region is also a major market driving factor.

Efforts by organizations such as the Epilepsy Foundation and healthcare professionals have led to improved education, earlier diagnosis, and increased awareness among the general population. North America has a well-established regulatory framework for drug approval and a favorable environment for pharmaceutical companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plays a crucial role in regulating and approving epilepsy drugs, ensuring their safety and efficacy. This regulatory environment encourages innovation and supports the growth of the epilepsy drug market in the region.

Asia Pacific is estimated to expand at the highest CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period. The presence of favorable government initiatives such as the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy, Global Campaign Against Epilepsy, and others, as well as the launch of new-generation anti-epileptic drugs are the drivers expected to propel the growth of this market in the region. In addition, rising patient awareness regarding effective drugs for epilepsy and the presence of high unmet medical needs in the emerging economies of India and China propel the market growth in the region.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Product launches, approvals, strategic acquisitions, and innovations are just a few of the important strategies used by market participants to maintain and grow their global reach. For instance, in February 2021, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. launched the anti-epileptic drug Brivaracetam in several dosage forms, including 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg, at an affordable price.

In addition, in March 2021, Alkem Labs launched the anti-epileptic drug BRIVASURE in India. The medicine has received approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for adjunctive management of partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization. The medication has demonstrated a quicker onset of action, effectiveness, and an excellent safety profile.

Epilepsy Drugs Market Report Scope

Global Epilepsy Drugs Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For the purpose of this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global epilepsy drugs market report based on product and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • First Generation Anti-epileptics

  • Second Generation Anti-epileptics

  • Third Generation Anti-epileptics

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Sweden

    • Norway

    • Denmark

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

    • Thailand

    • South Korea

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Mexico

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa

    • UAE

    • Kuwait