Germany Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market Analysis

Germany Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market Analysis: Executive Summary

The Germany Asthma and COPD Therapeutics Market is at around US $1.22 Bn in 2022 and is projected to reach US $1.6 Bn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.40% during the forecast period.

Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are chronic respiratory disorders that damage the airways and cause difficulty in breathing. Asthma is characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, which are frequently induced by allergens, irritants, or exercise. Common symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and coughing, which are associated with risk factors such as a family history of respiratory infections. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which cause congested airways, and smoking has been identified as a key risk factor. Identifiable COPD symptoms include a persistent cough, increased mucus production, and exhaustion. Bronchodilators are used to relieve airway tightness in Asthma, and anti-inflammatory medicines are used to treat inflammation in COPD. Medications from firms like GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, and Boehringer Ingelheim are widely recommended.

COPD affects about 12% of the population, and the prevalence of asthma ranges from approximately 7% to 12% among both adults and children in France. These statistics are closely linked to increased levels of smoking, air pollution, and other environmental factors in the population. The primary factors driving the market are the surge in the prevalence of Asthma and COPD, technological advancements, a favorable regulatory landscape, and others. However, the high costs of advanced treatment, underdiagnosis, and increasing generic medications are a few factors that limit the market's potential.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising disease prevalence: The estimated prevalence of COPD in Germany is around 12% for the population over 40 years of age which translates to roughly 7 million individuals. Subsequently, the prevalence of asthma is approximately 7% in adults and 12% in children, with more than 1 million children currently suffering from asthma in Germany. With the aging of Germany's population, it is anticipated that the occurrence of both COPD and asthma will rise, attributed to age-related alterations in lung function and heightened vulnerability to respiratory conditions. This translates into a huge patient pool that requires regular treatment, leading to market growth.

Focus on quality of life: While current treatments effectively manage symptoms, there is a continuous need for novel medications that handle disease progression, prevent poor prognosis, and provide long-term management. Patients seek solutions that reduce limitations and improve their overall well-being, fueling the demand for convenient and effective treatment options.

Technological advancements: Exploration into new drug targets, formulations, and delivery systems such as inhalers and nebulizers offers the potential for more efficient and patient-friendly treatment alternatives. The integration of AI applications in diagnostics, treatment selection, and drug development has the capacity to expedite innovation and customize healthcare delivery in Germany.

Supportive regulatory landscape: Healthcare policies in Germany prioritize enhancing access to innovative treatments and early diagnosis, contributing to the positive impact on the market for Asthma and COPD therapeutics. Regulatory reforms are designed to streamline the approval process for new and effective medications, thereby promoting market growth.

Market Restraints

High Cost of Treatment:
Effective management of both COPD and asthma necessitates the long-term use of medications, which constitutes a significant financial burden. The elevated cost of treatment can present a barrier for patients, especially those with limited financial means. A recent estimate suggested the direct medical costs of COPD in Germany at approximately $8 billion, demonstrating the substantial financial strain on both patients and healthcare systems.

Underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis: Even with a significant occurrence of COPD in Germany, numerous cases go undetected or are misdiagnosed. Estimates indicate that only 20–25% of individuals with COPD receive a proper diagnosis. This delay in initiating appropriate treatment can mediate disease progression, contributing to increased long-term healthcare costs.

Rise of generic medications: The growing presence of generic and biosimilar drugs may exert downward pressure on the prices of branded medications, influencing the overall revenue of the market. While this is cost-effective for patients, it also has the potential to impact the profitability of pharmaceutical companies that invest in the research and development of new therapies.

Notable Updates

July 2023, Lupin Pharmaceutical Company introduced a pressurized metered-dose inhaler called Luforbec in Germany. This inhaler combines a corticosteroid and a long-acting beta2-agonist and is designed for the treatment of both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory landscape governing healthcare in Germany is influenced by directives, standards, and safety regulations issued both at the national level and by the European Union (EU). Oversight of medical devices is the responsibility of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), which enforces the Medical Devices Act and the Medical Devices Regulation in alignment with EU directives. Germany's healthcare system is characterized by a decentralized decision-making structure involving the federal government, state laws, and regional associations of sickness funds. The Federal Joint Committee plays a pivotal role in determining the covered services of sickness funds, relying on evidence from comparative effectiveness reviews and health assessments.

Companies aiming for healthcare licensure in Germany must undergo a thorough registration process overseen by the BfArM, facilitated through the electronic portal DIMDI. For new entrants to the German market, a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory environment is essential to ensuring compliance with the relevant regulations.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• GlaxoSmithKline
• AstraZeneca
• Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals
• Novartis
• Merck & Co
• Abbott Laboratories
• Merck
• Teva Pharmaceuticals
• Pfizer
• Chiesi Pharmaceuticals