The Global Acne Drug Market 

Here are some facts about acne you may not know. It’s the most common skin disease. While most people experience breakouts at some point in their lives, a small percentage of individuals continue to have problems into their thirties or forties. New research findings may lead to effective new treatments. For example, a small preliminary clinical trial suggests that acne severity may be reduced by eating a low glycemic index diet. More extensive studies are needed to determine its future role as an acne deterrent.

Acne Drug Market Numbers

A widely quoted figure from 2013 estimated that the global prescription and over-the-counter acne drug market generated revenues in excess of $3.0 billion annually.[5] Another source cited a much higher “total acne market” valuation of $6.5 billion. The huge gap may reflect different analytical methodologies and/or inclusion of additional treatment options (e.g., devices, equipment, services, etc.).

Product Options

Most common acne drugs have been used safely over extended periods of time. Categories typically include: Antibiotics, antimicrobials (e.g., benzoyl peroxide), anti-inflammatories, hormonal agents, oral retinoids, and topical retinoids. Combination medications have also been developed and commercialized (e.g., Duac and Ziana). Prescription acne drugs are often much more expensive (e.g., $1,700 per year) than over-the-counter medications that rely on benzoyl peroxide as the primary active ingredient ($80 per year).

More than $1.0 billion in U.S. sales annually were generated by five prescription acne drugs in 2013.[1] Globally, top-selling acne drugs in 2010 included Solodyn, Doryx, Ziana, and Duac.[2] As of 2010, patent protection for Solodyn and Doryx was scheduled to expire in 2018 and 2022, respectively.[3]

[1] “Pediatrics / Guideline: Following the Money in Acne Treatment,” Milwaukee Journal Sentinel/MedPage Today, September 15, 2013.
[2] “GlobalData: Acne – Drug Pipeline Analysis and Market Forecasts,” BusinessWire, May 7, 2010
[3] Ibid.

2017 Update

According to the “Global Dermatology Drugs Markets 2017 - 2023” report from Research and Markets, total revenues are expected to reach $19.8 billion in 2017. Demand is high for new effective drugs. For example, combined sales of two dominant psoriasis biologic products (Cosentyx and Otezla) could generate $6.5 billion in 2023. To put that figure into perspective, treating severe psoriasis with an older biologic such as Enbrel can cost $28,500 annually.[4] In comparison, acne treatments range from $360 to $720 a year for over-the-counter medications ($360 to $720) to $540 to $2,400 for prescription drugs.[5]
[4] http://health.costhelper.com/psoriasis.html
[5] https://www.thepricers.com/acne-treatments-cost/