Services
Report Store
Market Insights
Our Blogs
Connect with Us

Buy Now

Pruritus Therapeutics Market

Pages: 160 | Base Year: 2024 | Release: July 2025 | Author: Versha V.

Market Definition

Pruritus therapeutics involves the development of drugs, topical formulations, and biologics to alleviate itching caused by dermatologic, systemic, or neurological disorders. The market includes a broad spectrum of solutions such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and monoclonal antibodies, delivered via oral, topical, or injectable routes. 

It covers both prescription and over-the-counter products used across clinical fields like dermatology, oncology, nephrology, and allergology. The market’s scope spans retail and hospital distribution channels, forming a key component within the global symptomatic and dermatological treatment landscape.    

Pruritus Therapeutics Market Overview

The global pruritus therapeutics market size was valued at USD 9.08 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 9.48 billion in 2025 to USD 13.39 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.07% during the forecast period. The market growth is attributed to the rising prevalence of chronic skin disorders, which continues to boost the demand for their treatment. Additionally, the market is registering a surge in biologics and targeted therapies.

Major companies operating in the pruritus therapeutics industry are AbbVie, Amgen Inc., Astellas Pharma Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi, Lilly, Merck & Co., Inc., Bayer, Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc., TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC., Incyte, Cipla Limited, and Shandong Boan Biotech.

The demographic progression toward an aging population is driving the market, as elderly individuals are increasingly susceptible to chronic pruritus on account of declining skin integrity, multiple comorbidities, and prolonged medication use. 

As the skin ages, it becomes drier and structurally compromised, and conditions such as diabetes and liver disorders further exacerbate the symptoms. Moreover, widespread polypharmacy in older adults increases the likelihood of drug-induced itching, thereby underscoring the demand for safe and targeted therapies.   

Consequently, pharmaceutical companies are advancing age-specific treatments, while healthcare systems simultaneously integrate dermatological care into routine geriatric services, thus supporting consistent market expansion.

Pruritus Therapeutics Market Size & Share, By Revenue, 2025-2032

Key Highlights:

  1. The pruritus therapeutics industry size was valued at USD 9.08 billion in 2024.
  2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.07% from 2025 to 2032.
  3. North America held a market share of 34.10% in 2024, with a valuation of USD 3.10 billion.
  4. The atopic dermatitis segment garnered USD 3.17 billion in revenue in 2024.
  5. The antihistamines segment is expected to reach USD 3.56 billion by 2032.
  6. The online pharmacies segment is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 5.85% during the forecast period.
  7. The market in Europe is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.23% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

Prevalence of Chronic Skin Disorders

The prevalence of chronic skin disorders is driving the pruritus therapeutics market. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis frequently result in persistent and severe itching. 

These long-term inflammatory diseases disrupt skin integrity, trigger immune responses, and significantly impair patients’ quality of life, leading to sustained clinical demand for itch-relief solutions. The growing global incidence of such disorders is directly increasing the need for effective and long-term therapeutic interventions focused on pruritus management.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers are developing advanced formulations that target the underlying inflammatory pathways responsible for chronic itching, while emphasizing durability and patient safety. Healthcare providers are expanding dermatological services and adopting evidence-based treatment protocols to address the increasing patient burden. 

As both clinical strategies and product pipelines continue to align with the rising caseload of chronic skin disorders, the market is positioned for consistent expansion across both developed and emerging healthcare systems.

  • In August 2024, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reported that eczema affected 10–30% of children and 2–10% of adults in the U.S., underlining its status as the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease. This substantial disease burden had notably driven the demand for pruritus therapeutics.

Market Challenge

Limited Efficacy and Safety of Existing Therapies

One significant challenge restraining the growth of the pruritus therapeutics market is the limited efficacy and safety profile of existing treatments, particularly for chronic and treatment-resistant pruritus. 

Various therapies such as antihistamines and corticosteroids are available; however, they often provide temporary relief and are associated with adverse effects when used in the long term. This inadequacy in sustained symptom management leads to poor patient adherence and dissatisfaction. This hinders market expansion while limiting commercial success for pharmaceutical developers.

Manufacturers are strategically investing in R&D to develop novel, targeted therapies with enhanced efficacy and improved safety. Companies are increasingly focusing on biologics and non-histaminergic pathways, which have demonstrated promising outcomes in clinical studies. Additionally, firms are leveraging real-world evidence and post-marketing surveillance data to optimize therapeutic performance and minimize risks. 

Producers are aiming to expand treatment options and restore patient confidence by aligning innovation with unmet clinical needs and integrating advanced drug development strategies, thus ensuring long-term market growth.

Market Trend

Surge in Biologics and Targeted Therapies

The pruritus therapeutics market is registering a significant trend marked by the rise of biologics and targeted therapies, as advancements in molecular biology and immunopathology continue. This shift reflects the growing preference for precision-based treatment approaches, as conventional therapies remain inadequate in addressing chronic and treatment-resistant pruritus. 

Moreover, emerging biologic agents targeting cytokines such as IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31 are demonstrating improved efficacy and safety in clinical settings. These therapies are gaining regulatory and clinical traction. Thus, the market is benefitting from enhanced treatment outcomes, increased patient compliance, and broader therapeutic innovation.

  • In December 2024, Galderma reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Nemluvio (nemolizumab) for patients aged 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. This approval underscores the growing shift in the pruritus therapeutics landscape toward targeted biologic therapies that address the root causes of inflammation rather than just alleviating symptoms.

Pruritus Therapeutics Market Report Snapshot

Segmentation

Details

By Disease Type

Atopic Dermatitis, Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Cholestatic Pruritus, Uremic Pruritus

By Drug Class

Antihistamines, Corticosteroids, Calcineurin Inhibitors, Counterirritants

By Distribution Channel

Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies

By Region

North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico

Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East & Africa: Turkey, U.A.E., Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa

South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America

Market Segmentation:

  • By Disease Type (Atopic Dermatitis, Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Cholestatic Pruritus, and Uremic Pruritus): The atopic dermatitis segment earned USD 3.17 billion in 2024, due to its high global prevalence and chronic nature, which drive sustained demand for long-term treatment solutions and advanced therapeutic interventions.
  • By Drug Class (Antihistamines, Corticosteroids, Calcineurin Inhibitors, and Counterirritants): The antihistamines segment held 29.40% share of the market in 2024, due to their widespread availability, cost-effectiveness, and proven efficacy in alleviating histamine-induced itching across a broad range of pruritic conditions.
  • By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Online Pharmacies): The hospital pharmacies segment is projected to reach USD 5.36 billion by 2032, owing to their direct access to specialized treatments, high patient footfall, and strong partnerships with healthcare providers, ensuring reliable distribution of prescription pruritus therapies.

Pruritus Therapeutics Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America.

Pruritus Therapeutics Market Size & Share, By Region, 2025-2032

North America pruritus therapeutics market share stood at around 34.10% in 2024, with a valuation of USD 3.10 billion. The market dominance is attributed to the substantial per capita healthcare expenditure in North America, which facilitates widespread access to advanced pruritus therapies. This high level of spending supports the rapid adoption of innovative biologics and targeted treatments that enhance patient outcomes.

Robust government funding alongside strong private sector investment strengthens infrastructure for research and development. As a result, healthcare systems efficiently integrate novel therapeutics into clinical practice, thereby expanding patient reach. With a focus on cutting-edge medical technologies combined with significant healthcare budgets, the region maintains its leadership in the market, driving sustained growth and innovation.

  • According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the national health expenditure reached USD 4.9 trillion in 2023, amounting to about USD 14570 per person and representing 17.6% of US GDP. Prescription drug spending alone jumped 11.4% to USD 449.7 billion. This high per capita spending drives access to advanced pruritus therapies.

The pruritus therapeutics industry in Europe is poised for significant growth at a robust CAGR of 6.23% over the forecast period. The market is driven by the extensive adoption of digital dermatology tools, which enhances early diagnosis and personalized treatment of pruritic conditions across Europe. Moreover, the integration of AI-powered skin analysis platforms and teledermatology services is streamlining clinical workflows while expanding access to specialist care.

National health systems are investing heavily in digital infrastructure, enabling real-time monitoring and evidence-based therapeutic decisions. As a result, these advancements are enhancing patient engagement, strengthening treatment adherence, and leading to improved therapeutic outcomes. Supported by regulatory support and cross-border digital health collaborations, Europe is rapidly emerging as the fastest-growing region in the market.

Regulatory Frameworks

  • In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), through its Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), regulates pruritus therapeutics by overseeing drug approval, clinical trials, manufacturing, and post-market safety.
  • In Europe, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) regulates therapeutics by overseeing drug evaluation, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), pharmacovigilance, and authorizations, with the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) providing scientific opinions on new therapies, including pruritus treatments.

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the pruritus therapeutics industry is defined by the presence of strategic acquisitions focused on portfolio expansion and pipeline diversification. Leading companies maintain a competitive edge by acquiring niche biotech firms and late-stage assets to bolster their dermatological expertise. 

These acquisitions support faster market access, geographic expansion, and enhanced R&D capabilities. As a result, consolidation continues to shape competition, accelerating innovation and the commercialization of next-generation pruritus therapies.

  • In May 2024, Johnson & Johnson acquired Proteologix, Inc., gaining access to its bispecific antibody assets PX128 and PX130. These candidates, targeting IL-13/TSLP and IL-13/IL-22, respectively, address moderate to severe atopic dermatitis and asthma by modulating multiple disease pathways, enhancing therapeutic efficacy across heterogeneous patient subpopulations.

List of Key Companies in Pruritus Therapeutics Market:

  • AbbVie
  • Amgen Inc.
  • Astellas Pharma Inc.
  • GlaxoSmithKline plc.
  • Novartis AG
  • Pfizer Inc.
  • Sanofi 
  • Lilly
  • Merck & Co., Inc.
  • Bayer
  • Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc.
  • TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC.
  • Incyte
  • Cipla Limited
  • Shandong Boan Biotech

Recent Developments (Launches)

  • In June 2025, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Sanofi reported results from the Phase 4 DISCOVER trial, a single-arm, open-label study evaluating Dupixent in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis and skin of color. This represents the clinical data for Dupixent in a large cohort of patients with darker skin tones. Combined with findings from earlier Phase 3 trials, the results showed consistent improvements in atopic dermatitis signs and symptoms from baseline across a wide range of skin tones.
  • In September 2024, Eli Lilly and Company announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved EBGLYSS, a targeted IL-13 inhibitor, for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in patients aged 12 years. This approval broadens therapeutic options for adolescents and adults affected by this chronic inflammatory skin disease.
  • In July 2024, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. introduced ZORYVE (roflumilast) Cream 0.15% for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. This non-steroidal, once-daily topical therapy provides rapid relief from itch and visible improvement in symptoms It is specifically designed to support long-term management of atopic dermatitis.
Loading FAQs...