The global branded generics market size is expected to reach USD 453.05 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 6.5% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Factors such as patent expiry of major products, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, high penetration of generic products, and government initiatives to promote them for reducing the overall healthcare expenditure are among the primary growth drivers.
The patent expiry of branded products primarily fuels industry growth. Drugs, such as Revlimid and Alimta, may cost up to USD 500 a month, which affects the overall healthcare expenditure and affordability for patients suffering from chronic diseases. Eli Lilly & Company’s Alimta is expected to lose its patent protection by May 2022. This expiry of product patents creates opportunities for generics and biosimilar manufacturers.
However, over the past few years, the trend of ANDA approvals for generic drugs had been steadily decreased. It can be observed that the number of ANDA approvals decreased from 1,014 in 2019 to 948 in 2020 and further declined to 776 in 2021. Such factors could slow down industry growth in the coming years.
The growing burden of infectious & non-infectious diseases, coupled with the rising geriatric population, which is more susceptible to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, is expected to positively impact the industry growth. According to an NCBI article, there were 537 million patients suffering from diabetes in 2021 globally.
The COVID-19 pandemic moderately impacted the branded generics space. Due to lockdown situations and stringent government regulations to curb the pandemic, a slowdown and disruption in the supply of pharmaceuticals had been observed in the initial phase of the pandemic. In addition, regulatory operations also affected reimbursement decisions and approvals of new products in the space. However, the market regained its pace by the end of 2020 in most countries.
Companies are introducing novel products to strengthen their product portfolio. In March 2022, Viatris, Inc. received the U.S. FDA’s approval for Breyna, the first generic version of AstraZeneca's Symbicort, intended for the treatment of COPD. Moreover, in February 2019, Mylan N.V. introduced the first generic version of ADVAIR DISKUS (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder) under the brand Wixela Inhub for the treatment of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or asthma. This branded generic was claimed to be 70% cheaper than the originator product.
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Anti hypertensive held the largest revenue share of 15.75% in 2025 due to the high global prevalence of hypertension and the sustained demand for affordable long-term treatment options.
Cardiovascular diseases held the largest revenue share of 16.88% in 2025 because it addresses a high global disease burden requiring long term pharmacotherapy, including management of heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke risk factors.
The oral segment?by route of administration has the largest revenue share of 59.22% in 2025 because oral dosage forms are non invasive, easier for patients to self administer, and widely used across chronic and acute therapies, enhancing prescription volumes and adherence.
The retail pharmacy segment?has the largest revenue share of 57.85% in 2025 because retail pharmacies provide broad geographic accessibility and immediate access to medications for outpatient care, especially for chronic and common conditions treated with generics.
The North American branded generics industry remains dominant, accounting for the largest share of global sales due to the region's strong healthcare infrastructure, extensive insurance coverage, and policies encouraging generic adoption.
Grand View Research has segmented the global branded generics market on the basis of drug class, application, route of administration, distribution channel, and region:
Branded Generics Drug Class Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Alkylating Agents
Antimetabolites
Hormones
Anti-hypertensive
Lipid Lowering drugs
Anti-depressants
Anti-psychotics
Anti-epileptics
Others
Branded Generics Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Oncology
Cardiovascular Diseases
Neurological Diseases
Gastrointestinal Diseases
Dermatological diseases
Acute and Chronic Pain
Others
Branded Generics Route Of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Topical
Oral
Parenteral
Others
Branded Generics Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Hospital Pharmacy
Retail Pharmacy
Online Pharmacy & Others
Branded Generics Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Denmark
Sweden
Norway
Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
South Korea
Thailand
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Kuwait
List of Key Players in the Branded Generics Market
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Cipla Ltd.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.
Lupin Ltd.
Aurobindo Pharma Ltd.
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Viatris Inc.
Sanofi
Abbott Laboratories
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