Market Overview
The Global Incretin-Based Drugs Market reached US$ 26.49 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 40.13 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period 2025-2032.
Incretin-based drugs are a class of antidiabetic medications designed to mimic the effects of incretin hormones, which are naturally produced by the body to help regulate insulin secretion in response to food intake. These drugs are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and are recognized for their effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.
Incretin-based drugs are mainly of 2 types one is dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors this class includes medications such as alogliptin, linagliptin, saxagliptin, and sitagliptin. DPP-4 inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme DPP-4, which breaks down incretin hormones. By inhibiting this enzyme, these drugs prolong the action of incretins, leading to increased insulin secretion and decreased glucagon levels when blood sugar is elevated.
Another one is the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues this group includes drugs like albiglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide, liraglutide, and lixisenatide. GLP-1 analogues mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, enhancing insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety, which can aid in weight loss. These factors have driven the global incretin-based drugs market expansion.
Executive Summary
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Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints
Increasing Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes
The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes significantly drives the growth of the global incretin-based drugs market and is expected to drive throughout the market forecast period.
Type 2 Diabetes Epidemiology
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data in May 2024, about 1 in 10 Americans has diabetes, with the majority diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is rising, particularly among children, teenagers, and young adults, a trend that has become increasingly concerning in recent years.
While type 2 diabetes typically develops in individuals aged 45 and older, more young people are now being diagnosed with this condition than in the past. However, it is important to note that type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes such as improved diet and increased physical activity. Currently, more than 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, and approximately 90% to 95% of these cases are attributed to type 2 diabetes. All these factors demand the global incretin-based drugs market.
Moreover, the rising demand for growing awareness and R&D activities contributes to the global incretin-based drugs market expansion.
Lack of Supportive Reimbursement Policies
The lack of supportive reimbursement policies will hinder the growth of the global incretin-based drugs market. Reimbursement policies for incretin-based drugs, such as DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, often vary significantly across healthcare jurisdictions. In many countries, these medications may be reimbursed under specific conditions, such as requiring prior treatment with metformin or other first-line therapies. This can create barriers for patients who do not meet these criteria, limiting their access to potentially effective treatments.
Many newer incretin-based therapies are not fully covered by insurance plans or may only be available under limited use (LU) or exceptional use (EU) categories. For instance, in Canada, while single-drug products of DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists are often reimbursed, fixed-dose combination (FDC) products may not receive any reimbursement at all. This inconsistency can discourage healthcare providers from prescribing these medications due to concerns about patient affordability. Thus, the above factors could be limiting the global incretin-based drugs market's potential growth.
Market Segment Analysis
The global incretin-based drugs market is segmented based on drug class, route of administration, distribution channel, and region.
Drug Class:
The glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues segment is expected to dominate the global incretin-based drugs market share
The glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues segment holds a major portion of the global incretin-based drugs market share and is expected to continue to hold a significant portion of the global incretin-based drugs market share during the forecast period.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, also referred to as GLP-1 receptor agonists, incretin mimetics, or GLP-1 analogs, are a class of medications utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and, in certain cases, obesity. Notable examples of drugs in this category include Exenatide, Liraglutide, Dulaglutide, and Semaglutide.
As per the American Diabetes Association (ADA), metformin continues to be the preferred first-line therapy for T2DM. However, the addition of a GLP-1 analogue is recommended for patients who either have contraindications or intolerances to metformin, those with a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level exceeding 1.5% above target, or patients who do not achieve their target HbA1c within three months. This is particularly relevant for individuals with atherosclerosis, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) research publication in February 2024, Semaglutide and high-dose Liraglutide have received FDA approval as pharmacologic treatments for obesity and can be prescribed for overweight patients with comorbidities. Research is ongoing regarding the use of GLP-1 analogs in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), showing favorable results in terms of HbA1c reduction and weight loss. However, challenges such as higher costs and tolerability issues remain significant barriers to the widespread prescription of these medications.
As per the 2023 ADA guidelines, GLP-1 receptor agonists are recommended for reducing cardiovascular risk. These agents not only lower the likelihood of cardiovascular events and hypoglycemia but also show potential in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). They are particularly recommended for individuals with a history of clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), such as prior myocardial infarction or stroke. GLP-1 agonists with proven cardiovascular benefits include Liraglutide, subcutaneous Semaglutide, and Dulaglutide. These factors have solidified the segment's position in the global incretin-based drugs market.
Market Geographical Share
North America is expected to hold a significant position in the global incretin-based drugs market share
North America holds a substantial position in the global incretin-based drugs market and is expected to hold most of the market share.
The increasing prevalence of diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2DM), is a major driver for the demand for incretin-based drugs in North America. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 49.3 million adults in North America will be living with diabetes in 2021, with projections indicating this number could exceed 55 million by 2030.
Additionally, high obesity rates around 29.4% in Canada—are closely linked to the development of T2DM, further fueling the need for effective treatment options such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors.
North America hosts a significant number of pharmaceutical companies specializing in diabetes care, including major players like Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and Merck & Co. This concentration fosters competition and innovation, leading to the development of new therapies that can capture market share.
The North American market is characterized by a steady stream of product launches and regulatory approvals for new incretin-based therapies. This continuous innovation enhances the treatment options available to healthcare providers and patients, driving market growth. Recent approvals for oral formulations of GLP-1 analogues have particularly improved accessibility and compliance among patients.
For instance, in May 2022, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) was an advanced medication that received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is notable for being the first and only approved dual agonist of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, which are natural incretin hormones involved in glucose metabolism.
Also, in July 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Semglee (insulin glargine-yfgn) injection as the first interchangeable biosimilar insulin product. This medication is indicated for improving glycemic control in both adults and pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, as well as in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Semglee is not only biosimilar to its reference product, Lantus (insulin glargine), but it is also interchangeable, meaning it can be substituted for Lantus at the pharmacy without needing a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Thus, the above factors are consolidating the region's position as a dominant force in the global incretin-based drugs market.
Asia Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the global incretin-based drugs market share
Asia Pacific holds the fastest pace in the global incretin-based drugs market and is expected to hold most of the market share.
The increasing incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity in the APAC region is a major driver for the demand for incretin-based drugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported alarming trends in diabetes prevalence, with millions of individuals affected. Countries like India and China have some of the highest diabetes rates globally, necessitating effective treatment options such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors.
There has been a marked increase in awareness about diabetes management and treatment options among healthcare professionals and patients in the APAC region. Many governments in the APAC region are implementing policies to improve healthcare access and promote diabetes management. These initiatives often include subsidizing medications, enhancing healthcare infrastructure, and launching public health campaigns that encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
Innovations in drug delivery systems, including needle-free injection devices and oral formulations of GLP-1 analogues, are enhancing patient compliance and convenience. These advancements are critical in encouraging the use of incretin-based therapies among patients who may be hesitant to use injectable medications.
India is often referred to as the "diabetes capital of the world," with a staggering prevalence of diabetes affecting approximately 74 million adults as reported by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). This number is projected to escalate to 125 million by 2045, representing a nearly 70% increase in the diabetic population.
Furthermore, key players in the industry product launches that would drive the global incretin-based drugs market in the region. For instance, in April 2022, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited introduced a novel fixed-dose combination (FDC) medication called Zita Plus Pio in India, specifically designed for adults with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes. This innovative product combines two well-known diabetes medications: Teneligliptin, a Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and Pioglitazone, a member of the thiazolidinedione class.
Also, in January 2022, Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company, announced the launch of oral semaglutide in India, a significant development in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This launch represents an important advancement in diabetes management, as oral semaglutide provides an alternative to injectable forms of GLP-1 receptor agonists, making treatment more accessible and convenient for patients.
Thus, the above factors are consolidating the region's position as the fastest-growing force in the global incretin-based drugs market.
Competitive Landscape
The major global players in the incretin-based drugs market include Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk, Merck & Co., Inc., AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Inc., Sanofi, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Novartis AG, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company among others.
| Metrics | Details | |
| CAGR | 5.6% | |
| Market Size Available for Years | 2022-2032 | |
| Estimation Forecast Period | 2025-2032 | |
| Revenue Units | Value (US$ Bn) | |
| Segments Covered | Drug Class | Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitors, Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Analogues |
| Route of Administration | Oral, Injectable | |
| Distribution Channel | Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies | |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa | |
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The global incretin-based drugs market report delivers a detailed analysis with 60+ key tables, more than 50 visually impactful figures, and 176 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.
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