Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent degenerative joint disorders, affecting millions globally and significantly impacting the aging population. In India, the osteoarthritis therapeutics market is witnessing rapid expansion due to the increasing elderly population, sedentary lifestyles, obesity rates, and greater awareness about early diagnosis and treatment. The global market for osteoarthritis therapeutics reached USD 9.13 billion in 2024, and it is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.70% during 2025–2034, reaching approximately USD 21.03 billion by 2034.

India, being one of the major emerging markets, is contributing significantly to this growth, driven by improved access to healthcare facilities, adoption of advanced therapies, and rising investments in pharmaceutical innovation.

Overview of the Osteoarthritis Therapeutics Market

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The India osteoarthritis therapeutics market is expanding as the demand for effective treatment options such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and hyaluronic acid injections increases.

With the rising burden of osteoarthritis among adults aged 45 and older, India’s market is benefiting from growing healthcare expenditure, the availability of affordable generic drugs, and the development of disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs).

The treatment landscape is shifting toward a patient-centered approach, focusing on pain relief, improved mobility, and long-term joint protection.

India Osteoarthritis Therapeutics Market Size and Share

India’s share in the global osteoarthritis therapeutics market is growing steadily, reflecting the nation’s increasing demand for advanced medical care. The market is influenced by multiple factors, including the surge in knee and hip osteoarthritis cases, government initiatives to promote musculoskeletal health, and technological advancements in drug delivery systems.

By 2034, India is expected to hold a significant market share due to the expansion of specialty clinics and hospital pharmacies, as well as the growing use of online pharmacies that make medication access easier for patients.

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Market Breakup by Type

  • Hip Osteoarthritis – Rising cases among elderly individuals due to wear and tear.

  • Spinal Osteoarthritis – Increasing prevalence of back pain and sedentary habits.

  • Knee Osteoarthritis – Dominant segment due to high incidence rates in women and obese individuals.

  • Hand Osteoarthritis – Common among aging women and manual laborers.

  • Others – Includes shoulder and ankle osteoarthritis cases.

Market Breakup by Drug Class

  • Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – The most widely used class for pain management.

  • Other Analgesics – Opioid and non-opioid analgesics for severe pain relief.

  • Corticosteroids – Used for short-term inflammation control.

  • Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Offer lubrication and improved joint function.

  • Others – Includes DMOADs and regenerative therapies under clinical research.

Market Breakup by Dosage Form

  • Tablets and Capsules – Convenient and widely prescribed.

  • Injections – Increasing use for targeted and faster results.

  • Creams and Gels – Popular for localized pain relief.

  • Others – Includes sprays and novel transdermal patches.

Market Breakup by Route of Administration

  • Oral – The dominant route due to patient compliance.

  • Parenteral – Common for intra-articular and intravenous administration.

  • Topical – Preferred for mild symptoms and early-stage OA management.

Market Breakup by End User

  • Hospitals – Largest segment due to advanced treatment options.

  • Specialty Clinics – Focus on rheumatology and orthopedics care.

  • Homecare Settings – Growing adoption of at-home physiotherapy and oral medication.

  • Others – Rehabilitation centers and wellness facilities.

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

  • Hospital Pharmacies – Key distribution channel for prescription-based drugs.

  • Retail Pharmacies – Easily accessible for over-the-counter medications.

  • Online Pharmacies – Fastest-growing channel driven by e-commerce adoption.

  • Others – Includes direct sales and specialty distributors.

Market Dynamics and Trends

Rising Geriatric Population

The rising elderly population in India is a major contributor to the increasing cases of osteoarthritis. With longer life expectancy, age-related joint degeneration has become more common, driving demand for long-term therapeutic management.

Increased Healthcare Spending

Government and private sector initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure have enhanced access to osteoarthritis treatment, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas.

Advancements in Regenerative Medicine

Emerging treatments such as stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are offering new hope for OA patients, potentially slowing disease progression.

Technological Innovations

The integration of AI and digital health tools in rheumatology and orthopedics is supporting early diagnosis and personalized treatment planning, enhancing patient outcomes.

Market Growth Outlook

The India osteoarthritis therapeutics market is expected to grow robustly during 2025–2034. The introduction of biosimilars and biologic therapies, along with ongoing clinical trials for DMOADs, will revolutionize OA treatment.

Furthermore, public health campaigns focused on obesity management, joint health awareness, and preventive physiotherapy are likely to contribute to market expansion.

The increasing penetration of pharmaceutical giants and the development of indigenous drugs are positioning India as a competitive player in the global OA treatment landscape.

Market Opportunities and Challenges

Opportunities

  • Innovation in Drug Formulation: Development of long-acting and combination therapies.

  • Growing Online Pharmacies: Offering better drug accessibility and cost efficiency.

  • Collaborations and Clinical Trials: Partnerships between Indian firms and global pharma leaders.

  • Focus on Preventive Care: Growing adoption of joint-friendly diets and lifestyle changes.

Challenges

  • High Treatment Cost: Advanced therapies and biologics remain expensive.

  • Limited Access in Rural Areas: Lack of orthopedic specialists and infrastructure.

  • Adverse Drug Reactions: Long-term NSAID and corticosteroid use may cause side effects.

Recent Developments in the Osteoarthritis Therapeutics Market

  • Pfizer Inc. and Eli Lilly continued the clinical trials of tanezumab, a monoclonal antibody for pain management in OA.

  • Bioventus LLC launched next-generation hyaluronic acid injections to improve joint mobility.

  • Anika Therapeutics Inc. expanded its orthopedic product line with advanced regenerative solutions.

  • Novartis AG and Bayer AG focused on the development of targeted therapies with fewer side effects.

  • Seikagaku Corporation introduced new intra-articular injection formulations aimed at enhancing pain relief duration.

These developments highlight the industry’s focus on personalized and minimally invasive OA treatments.

Key Players in the Osteoarthritis Therapeutics Market

Prominent players contributing to the India and global osteoarthritis therapeutics market include:

  • Sanofi

  • Bayer AG

  • Haleon plc

  • Seikagaku Corporation

  • Bristol Myers Squibb

  • Ono Pharmaceutical

  • Novartis AG

  • Pfizer Inc.

  • Assertio Holdings

  • Pacira Biosciences Inc.

  • Anika Therapeutics Inc.

  • Bioventus LLC

These companies are investing heavily in research, clinical trials, and patient-centric therapies to improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the India osteoarthritis therapeutics market growth forecast for 2025–2034?
The India osteoarthritis therapeutics market is projected to grow significantly during 2025–2034, supported by increased healthcare access, adoption of advanced drug formulations, and the growing elderly population.

2. Which factors are driving the growth of the osteoarthritis therapeutics market in India?
The major growth drivers include a rising geriatric population, higher obesity rates, government initiatives for musculoskeletal health, and growing availability of novel biologic therapies.

3. What are the major treatment types available for osteoarthritis in India?
The key treatments include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid injections, and regenerative therapies such as stem cell and PRP treatments.

4. Which drug class holds the largest market share in the osteoarthritis therapeutics market?
NSAIDs hold the largest share due to their widespread use for managing pain and inflammation associated with OA.

5. Who are the leading players in the India osteoarthritis therapeutics market?
Leading companies include Sanofi, Pfizer Inc., Bayer AG, Novartis AG, and Bioventus LLC, among others focusing on innovation and clinical advancements.