The Dry Eye Disease market has been witnessing steady growth in recent years with rising prevalence of associated conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome. Dry Eye Disease, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the tear glands cannot produce enough tears or the quality of the tears does not allow proper lubrication and nourishment of the eye surface. This leads to symptoms such as burning, itching, pain, dryness and visual disturbances resulting in discomfort while performing daily tasks. Dry Eye Disease affects people of all age groups but the risk increases with age as tear production and quality diminishes due to various age-related factors. Additionally, extensive use of digital devices and prolonged screen time has also emerged as a major cause contributing to the growing Dry Eye Disease prevalence globally.

The Global Dry Eye Disease Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 5492.44 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.5% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the Dry Eye Disease market are VISUfarma, Johnson Johnson, Otsuka Holdings Co. Ltd., OASIS Medical, Novartis AG, Sentiss Pharma Pvt. Ltd., AbbVie Inc. (Allergan PLC), Bausch Health Companies Inc., Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. These players are focussing on new product launches and expansion strategies to consolidate their market position. For instance, in 2022 Santen launched a new prescription eye drop Tacrolimus for treatment of Dry Eye Disease in the United States.

Growing prevalence of Dry Eye Disease owing to changing lifestyles and increasing use of digital devices is expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period. As per estimates, around 5-30% of world’s populations are affected by Dry Eye Disease, with higher prevalence in women than in men.

Technological advancements in diagnostics and treatment modalities are further contributing to increased Dry Eye Disease diagnosis rates. Companies are investing in development of novel drug delivery systems like inserts, punctal plugs and contact lenses to enhance ocular drug absorption and prolong drug action for better management of Dry Eye Disease symptoms.

Market Trends

Increased Adoption of Combination Therapies: Combination therapy using artificial tears along with anti-inflammatory drugs is gaining traction to effectively manage Dry Eye Disease symptoms. This trend is expected to continue over the forecast period.

Rise of Refillable Multi-Dose Vials/Bottles: Companies are focusing on development of multi-dose refillable packaging to improve patient compliance in chronic conditions like Dry Eye Disease. This reduces waste generation and lowers overall treatment costs.

Market Opportunities

Focus on Emerging Markets: Emerging countries in Asia Pacific and Latin America are expected to provide high growth opportunities owing to rising disposable incomes, growing medical tourism and increased healthcare access and expenditure.

Development of Novel Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Companies are investing in development of novel classes of anti-inflammatory agents for Dry Eye Disease management with improved efficacy and safety profiles. These new drug launches could significantly boost the market revenues.

Impact of COVID-19 on Dry Eye Disease Market
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the growth of the dry eye disease market globally. During the beginning of the pandemic, when lockdowns and restrictions were imposed across countries, demand for dry eye disease treatments declined sharply due to reduced patient visits to hospitals and clinics for diagnosis and management of the condition. Teleconsultations and online prescriptions emerged as an alternative for patients during this period. However, as lockdowns eased from mid-2020, demand gradually recovered as patients resumed their regular visits and treatment cycles. Despite the initial setback, the overall market is estimated to grow at a healthy pace during the forecast period on the back of increasing awareness about dry eye disease, growing geriatric population susceptible to the disease, and rising adoption of innovative drugs and devices for its management. Market players are focusing on strengthening their online presence and digital healthcare solutions to ensure uninterrupted care for patients in the post-COVID scenario.

North America accounts for the largest share of the dry eye disease market due to the rising prevalence of the condition, surge in tech-use leading to digital eye strain, developed healthcare infrastructure, availability of advanced treatment options, and supportive reimbursement policies in the region. Asia Pacific is poised to be the fastest growing market on account of the large patient pool, growing awareness about dry eye disease, rising healthcare expenditure, and increasing government initiatives to expand access to eyecare in countries like India and China. The market is also witnessing promising growth in Middle East, Latin America and other developing nations.

Impact of COVID-19 on Dry Eye Disease Market in North America
North America represents the most lucrative geographical region for the dry eye disease market, accounting for over 40% of the global revenue as of 2024. Factors such as growing geriatric population, surge in digital device usage exacerbating dry eye symptoms, expanding base of contact lens users and favourable government initiatives are propelling the market in North America. However, during the initial months of the pandemic, the market registered a steep fall in demand and revenues as clinics remained shut and diagnostic tests were postponed. Elective surgeries related to dry eye also witnessed significant delays. But as travel restrictions eased and standard protocols were implemented, patient visits and treatment rates picked up pace again. Telehealth consultations emerged as an effective medium to remotely manage stable dry eye cases across the US and Canada. Market players also introduced home-based testing kits and doorstep delivery of medications to support patients. Going forward, the North American dry eye disease market is estimated to regain momentum and maintain its leading position globally through 2031, primarily fuelled by rising prevalence, aging demographics and new product approvals.