Pressurized Metered Dose Inhalers Market Size, Share, Growth Insights and Forecast 2025-2033

Market Overview

The Global Pressurized Metered Dose Inhalers Market reached US$ 5,961.40 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 9,212.15 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period 2025-2033.

A pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) is a handheld medical device designed to deliver a specific amount of medication directly to the lungs in the form of a fine aerosol mist. It is primarily used for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory diseases. When the user presses the actuator, the metering valve releases a predetermined dose of medication into the mouthpiece. The medication, propelled by the gas, forms a mist that the patient inhales. This delivers the drug directly to the lungs, ensuring fast and effective relief.

The demand for pressurized metered dose inhalers is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions and the rising adoption of metered dose inhalers. For instance, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in 2020, approximately 1,284 metric tons (MT) of HFC-134a and 207 MT of HFC227ea (hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)) propellant were contained in MDIs sold in the United States. In 2025, approximately 1,373 MT of HFC-134a and 222 MT of HFC227ea propellant contained in MDIs are estimated to be sold.

Executive Summary

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Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Rising prevalence of respiratory diseases

The rising prevalence of respiratory diseases is significantly driving the growth of the pressurized metered dose inhalers market and is expected to drive the market over the forecast period. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), asthma is a major worldwide public health problem with high morbidity and mortality, affecting an estimated 339 million people worldwide. The increasing prevalence of these diseases, especially in urban areas where pollution levels are high, is driving the need for efficient inhalation therapies, including pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs).

As populations age, there is a higher incidence of respiratory conditions such as COPD, which often leads to increased use of inhalers. For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing 3.5 million deaths in 2021, approximately 5% of all global deaths. Additionally, according to the American Lung Association, in 2022, 11.7 million people, or 4.6% of adults, reported a diagnosis of COPD.

Urbanization, exposure to air pollution and allergens contribute to the rise in respiratory conditions. According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Health, the findings highlight that air pollution was the leading risk factor for COPD in India, being responsible for more COPD burden than smoking. These rising respiratory conditions boost the demand for pressurized metered dose inhalers.

Competition from alternative inhaler technologies

Competition from alternative inhaler technologies is expected to hamper the growth of the pressurized metered dose inhalers market. Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs) are gaining popularity because they do not use propellants and are generally easier to use, especially for children and elderly patients. They also do not require as much coordination between inhalation and actuation, which is a common challenge with pMDIs. The lack of propellants in DPIs makes them more environmentally friendly, aligning with growing regulatory and patient concerns over the carbon footprint of inhalers​.

Soft Mist Inhalers (SMIs) deliver medication as a fine mist using a slow-moving aerosol rather than a propellant. This method ensures a more controlled release and distribution of the medication, reducing variability in drug delivery. The slow mist allows patients to inhale more slowly and deeply, which can be beneficial for those with compromised inhalation ability. This advantage makes SMIs more appealing compared to pMDIs for some patients, thereby affecting market share​.

Market Segment Analysis

The global pressurized metered dose inhalers market is segmented based on type, application, distribution channel and region.

Application:

The asthma segment is expected to dominate the pressurized metered dose inhalers market share

The asthma solutions segment is expected to dominate the global pressurized metered dose inhalers market. Asthma is a widespread respiratory condition affecting millions of people globally. ​The high prevalence of asthma drives the demand for effective and easily administrable treatment options like pMDIs, which deliver a precise dosage of medication directly to the lungs and reduce the risk of exacerbations in people with asthma.

For instance, in January 2023, Airsupra (albuterol/budesonide), formerly known as PT027, was approved in the US for the as-needed treatment or prevention of bronchoconstriction and to reduce the risk of exacerbations in people with asthma aged 18 years and older. Airsupra is a first-in-class, pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI), fixed-dose combination rescue medication containing albuterol, a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA), and budesonide, an anti-inflammatory inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in the US. It is developed by AstraZeneca and Avillion.

Pressurized metered dose inhalers are particularly effective in delivering medication directly to the lungs, providing rapid relief from asthma symptoms. The ability to achieve quick and controlled drug release is crucial for managing acute asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath​. These inhalers are favored for their ease of use and portability. They are ideal for managing asthma on the go, which is a significant advantage for asthma patients who may need immediate relief from symptoms.

Market Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the pressurized metered dose inhalers market share

North America is expected to hold the largest market share in the global pressurized metered dose inhalers market. North America, especially the United States and Canada has high rates of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which increases the demand for pressurized metered dose inhalers in the region. 

For instance, according to the American Lung Association, in 2022, 44.2 million Americans, or 13.5%, had ever been diagnosed with asthma by a health professional. This was an increase of 48% from 9.1% in 1999.​ According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 14.2 million (6.5%) U.S. adults had physician-diagnosed COPD in 2021. This high prevalence necessitates reliable and rapid treatment options such as pMDIs, driving market demand in the region.

North America is a hub for innovation in respiratory technology. The presence of major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies like AstraZeneca, GSK and other emerging players ensures the availability of advanced pMDIs​ by adjusting the global greenhouse gas emissions.

For instance, in September 2024, AstraZeneca completed the studies that support the first regulatory filings for the transition of Breztri/Trixeo Aerosphere (budesonide/glycopyrronium/formoterol fumarate or BGF) to an innovative, next-generation propellant with 99.9% lower Global Warming Potential than propellants used in currently available inhaled medicines. Breztri is a triple-combination therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and will be the first medicine in AstraZeneca’s portfolio of pressurized-metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) to transition to the new propellant. While pMDIs contribute less than 0.04% of global greenhouse gas emissions, AstraZeneca is committed to significantly reducing this burden.

Asia-Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the pressurized metered dose inhalers market 

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing the fastest growth in the pressurized metered dose inhalers market. Millions of people suffering from asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the APAC region, driven by factors such as urbanization, increased pollution levels and changing lifestyles, making it a major market driver for ​pressurized metered dose inhalers in the region.

The rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure in countries like China, India and Japan is improving access to advanced medical technologies, including pMDIs. Governments in these countries are investing in healthcare to address rising disease burdens. For instance, the Indian government’s National Programme for Control of Non-Communicable Diseases aims to improve asthma and COPD management across the country, which boosts the demand for pressurized metered dose inhalers​.

The introduction of new technologies in pressurized metered dose inhalers, such as smart inhalers and the use of eco-friendly propellants, is driving adoption. These innovations not only improve patient outcomes but also meet the regulatory requirements in the region, further facilitating market growth​. For instance, in October 2020, Zydus Cadila launched Forglyn pMDI, a pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler (pMDI) with a combination of Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonist (LAMA) and Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA) for patients suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in India.

Major Global Players

The major global players in the pressurized metered dose inhalers market include AstraZeneca PLC, GlaxoSmithKline Inc., Merck & Co., Inc., Lupin, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Cognita Labs, LLC, Bespak Limited, Healthgate PVT. LTD., Nemera, Getz Pharma (Pvt.) Ltd. and among others.

Key Developments

• In June 2024, at Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2024, Aseptika launched the PUFFClicker3, its universal smart inhaler dose tracker, a world first, with an inhaler dose tracker that is compatible with both pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDI) and dry powder inhalers (DPI). The PUFFClicker3 supports 101 SNOMED-coded inhalers for both pMDI and DPIs, making switching to a new type of inhaler a simple process.
• In September 2023, Hormosan Pharma GmbH (Hormosan), Lupin’s wholly-owned subsidiary in Germany, launched Luforbec 100/6 (beclometasone 100µg / for moterol 6µg), a fixed combination in a pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) for the treatment of adult asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Germany.

Market Scope

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• Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials, product pipelines, and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
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• Physician Preferences & Health System Impact: Examines healthcare provider behaviors and the impact of health system mergers on adoption strategies.
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• Supply Chain Optimization: Assesses supply chain risks and distribution strategies for efficient product delivery.
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• Pharmacoeconomics & Value-Based Pricing: Analyzes the shift to value-based pricing and data-driven decision-making in R&D.

The global pressurized metered dose inhalers market report delivers a detailed analysis with 62 key tables, more than 53 visually impactful figures, and 171 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

Target Audience 2025

• Manufacturers: Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotech Companies, Contract Manufacturers, Distributors, Hospitals.
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