Polymyalgia rheumatica is a disorder that causes severe muscle and joint pain of the neck, shoulders, hips and thigh. It is mainly caused by age-related changes in the immune system. The symptoms include stiffness and tenderness of the shoulders, neck and thigh muscles. Polymyalgia rheumatica drugs such as corticosteroids are primarily used for the treatment of this disorder. They help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, stiffness and tenderness associated with the condition.

The polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market is estimated to be valued at USD 266 Mn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 662 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2024 to 2031.

Key players operating in the polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market are Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, AbbVie Inc., and Pfizer Inc.

The growing geriatric population and increasing prevalence of Polymyalgia Rheumatica Drugs Market globally is a major factor driving the demand for polymyalgia rheumatica drugs. According to WHO, the population aged 60 years and above is expected to reach 2 billion by 2050 from 900 million in 2015.

Technological advancements in drug delivery systems like long-acting corticosteroid formulations are allowing sustained drug release for prolonged duration. This improves patient compliance and clinical outcomes.

Market Trends
Newer targeted drug formulations: Developing drugs that selectively target inflammatory pathways involved in polymyalgia rheumatica with reduced systemic side effects. Companies are investing in research of biologics and JAK inhibitors for improved efficacy and safety.

Combination therapies: Clinical trials evaluating efficacy of combining corticosteroids with drugs like methotrexate that suppress immune system are ongoing. Combination regimens may allow lower corticosteroid doses and reduced side effects.

Market Opportunities
Emerging markets: Countries in Asia Pacific and Latin America with large geriatric population present significant growth opportunities for polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market. However, awareness needs to be raised regarding diagnosis and treatment in these regions.
Orphan drug designation: Few companies are seeking orphan drug designation for novel drugs to treat polymyalgia rheumatica. This encourages research and development of effective therapies for rare diseases with tax incentives and market exclusivity.

Impact of COVID-19 on Polymyalgia Rheumatica Drugs Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of the polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market globally. During the initial outbreak and lockdowns imposed worldwide, fewer patients visited healthcare facilities for diagnosis and treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica. This led to a decline in the demand and sales of polymyalgia rheumatica drugs in 2020. However, as restrictions eased in some parts of the world, the market is slowly recovering.

In the pre-COVID era, the market was growing at a steady pace due to the rising geriatric population susceptible to polymyalgia rheumatica and new product launches. The ongoing research and development activities were also fueling market growth. But the pandemic hindered these factors temporarily.

Moving forward, as the global vaccination drives accelerate and economic activities resume fully, the market is expected to bounce back. The postponed diagnosis and treatment will drive increased demand. Companies are focusing on ensuring steady supply of drugs and vaccine development to curtail future outbreaks. Telehealth and online pharmacies can aid in continuous care for polymyalgia rheumatica patients. Researchers are working to develop more effective and targeted therapeutic options. If COVID restrictions are lifted completely, the market has potential to surpass pre-pandemic projections in the long run through concerted efforts of all stakeholders.

Geographical Concentration of Polymyalgia Rheumatica Drugs Market
In terms of value, North America currently holds the largest share of the global polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market, led by the United States. This is attributed to factors such as the rising prevalence of polymyalgia rheumatica among the American population, availability of advanced healthcare facilities, and growing awareness about therapeutic options.

Europe is the second largest regional market thanks to major countries like Germany, France, and the UK with their high spending on healthcare and growing elderly demographics. The market is also expanding in Asia Pacific with China and Japan emerging as high potential markets due to their aging societies and increasing healthcare expenditure.

Fastest Growing Region in the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Drugs Market
The Asia Pacific region is poised to witness the fastest growth in the polymyalgia rheumatica drugs market during the forecast period. This is driven by rapidly developing pharmaceutical infrastructure, increasing healthcare accessibility, and heavy investments by both domestic and multinational players.

The rising disposable incomes are resulting in better medical insurance coverage and higher affordability of polymyalgia rheumatica drugs in Asia Pacific countries. Moreover, growing geriatric population prone to musculoskeletal disorders establishes a strong patient population base. Initiatives to spread more awareness about diseases and their management are also fueling the regional market demand. The emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia will be the major revenue generators in future.

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Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)