Propelled by Innovative Devices Patient Self-Administration is Transforming the Market for Injectables

(Amherst, NH) – Rapid changes in the therapeutic drug sector are challenging pharmaceutical developers in a number of functional areas. In this mix are the evolving transformations within the healthcare systems and services segment, the escalating presence of biologicals in both revenue and total drug count, the transition from traditional caregiver models to self-dosing, and the influence of direct-to-consumer marketing on promotional programs. One major effect of these trends is the absolute increase of drugs supplied in patient-targeted injection devices, a dynamic that includes as-developed therapeutics as well as post-launch formulation and packaging migration from vials to prefilled devices.

Changes in the way drugs are designed and developed are most evident in injectable drug therapies for a host of chronic conditions. Because of the ongoing need for repeat dosing posed by these disease indications, they represent significant drug volume and revenue opportunities, while simultaneously challenging the industry to develop products that meet the unique needs of the non-professional caregiver. For drugs designed to be administered by the patient, therapy-specific packaging is improving adherence and treatment outcomes.

In recent years, the number of protein-based pharmaceuticals reaching the marketplace has increased exponentially. Because of stability and shelf life factors, therapeutic proteins must either be stored under special conditions or formulated to retain their efficacy from the time of manufacture until they are dispensed. Liquid protein drugs require refrigeration until dispensed. Alternatively, proteins can be formulated as powders. These lyophilized proteins must be reconstituted prior to injection. For lyophilized drugs intended for self-administration, reconstitution must occur at the point of use. To address this requirement, a number of integrated and adaptive devices and systems have been designed to reconstitute lyophilized drugs immediately prior to delivery.

The continued emphasis on healthcare cost containment and the availability of drug therapies for previously untreatable ailments will drive double-digit growth in the market for self-injection of parenteral drugs. Consumers with diabetes are accustomed to the need for self-administration of drugs via injection. More recently, therapies for chronic conditions such as hormone deficiency, reproductive health and autoimmunity have demonstrated the market potential for self-administration of injectable drugs. Personalized medicine and therapeutic vaccines will introduce a new and expanding population to the process of home drug treatment.

A major factor in the growth of home healthcare is the convergence of managed care initiatives to control rising healthcare costs and the aging population. The number of Americans over age 85 is increasing faster than any other group. Home care medical devices represent the fastest growing segment of the medical device industry. With a continuing reduction in hospital stays for most conditions, home health care is becoming more and more common. Self-care in the home can give a sense of security and comfort that cannot be reproduced in a healthcare facility. With advances in medicine, home healthcare can be safe and effective.

It’s been over a decade since pharmaceutical companies began marketing drugs directly to consumers. During that time, what started as a novelty has become a major marketing spend channel for the industry. The effects have become ubiquitous and easy to identify. These impacts will increase as DTC budgets at most major drug companies continue to rise on a year-to-year basis.

The evolving subcutaneous self-administration landscape is detailed in a new and comprehensive report researched and written by Greystone Research Associates. Subcutaneous Self-Administration Markets to 2024 analyzes the global market for injectable drugs designed for subcutaneous self-administration. The report analyzes demand drivers, development factors, market considerations, and strategic and economic factors, and provides profiles of market sector participants.

More information is available at http://www.greystoneassociates.org

Source: Greystone Research Associates

About Greystone

Greystone Research Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.

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Greystone Research Associates
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