UAE Chronic Pain Therapeutics Market Analysis

UAE Chronic Pain Therapeutics Market Analysis Executive Summary

The UAE Chronic Pain Therapeutics Market is anticipated to experience a growth from $372 Mn in 2022 to $634 Mn by 2030, with a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period of 2022-2030.

Chronic pain refers to persistent discomfort lasting for weeks, months, or even years, often beyond the expected healing time of an injury or illness. It can stem from various conditions, including but not limited to arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, migraines, and back injuries. Categorically, chronic pain can be classified based on its underlying cause, such as nociceptive pain arising from tissue damage, neuropathic pain due to nerve damage, or idiopathic pain with no clear cause. Treatment for chronic pain typically involves a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the individual's needs. This may include medication management with analgesics, antidepressants, or anticonvulsants to alleviate pain and improve mood. Physical therapy and exercise regimens help improve mobility and strengthen muscles, reducing strain on affected areas. Psychological interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques can address the emotional and mental aspects of pain, helping individuals cope better. Additionally, interventional procedures like nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, or injections may be considered for targeted pain relief.

Back, musculoskeletal, and abdominal pain are the most prevalent forms of chronic pain in the UAE. Around 60% of UAE citizens report having back discomfort, which is a substantial prevalence. Furthermore, it was noted that osteoarthritis in the knee and other musculoskeletal pain were prevalent forms of chronic pain in the UAE.

The key drivers include the growing elderly population's susceptibility to age-related conditions, a shifting attitude toward pain management, and an increased demand for non-opioid alternatives amid concerns about opioid addiction and side effects.

Prominent entities such as GSK, Pfizer, Roche, and Novartis possess extensive and heterogeneous pain management portfolios that include cutting-edge treatments and well-proven drugs. These businesses gain access to substantial funding, which enables them to make investments in marketing, clinical studies, and market expansion in the UAE. With a significant presence in the Middle East and North Africa, Julphar is well-known for its brand and has a well-established distribution network in the UAE.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Aging population: The UAE’s growing old population is an important factor that continues to push the demand for long-term pain therapeutics. Within the elderly demographic, there are a number of age-related conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis that increase their need for effective pain management approaches which take into account their health conditions.

Shifting perceptions about managing pain: In the past, people regarded pain as normal in old age or illness. However, an increased understanding of chronic pain’s effect on general well-being has led to heightened demand for inclusive and efficient means of managing it as people seek to improve standards of living for individuals with stubborn pains.

Fears over opioid dependency: As a result, alternative non-opioid drugs are being sought after by patients. This shift in paradigm away from conventional pharmaceuticals has necessitated the rise in the market of non-opioid analgesics, minimally invasive modes of care, and complementary and alternative medicine as an all-around treatment approach for chronic pains. A change in this preference indicates a broader trend within society toward more secure and sustainable options for treating chronic pain among residents.

Market Restraints

Limited access to specialists: The UAE faces a shortage of pain management specialists, particularly in certain regions and for specific areas of expertise. This limits access to specialized care and tailored treatment plans for complex pain conditions. Uneven distribution of specialists across the country can create access disparities for patients in remote areas.

Cultural stigma and misconceptions: There can be a stigma associated with chronic pain and pain management medications, potentially discouraging patients from seeking help or adhering to treatment plans. Misconceptions about pain medications, particularly opioids, can lead to reluctance and fear of addiction, hindering optimal pain management.

Regulatory hurdles: The approval process for new pain management drugs and devices can be lengthy and complex, delaying their availability to patients in the UAE. Stringent regulations and safety protocols, while ensuring patient safety, can sometimes hamper the introduction of innovative technologies and treatment options.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

The UAE has a pharmaceutical market that is well-regulated by different bodies whose mandates are to assure the safety, effectiveness, and quality of drugs. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) is the main regulatory body in charge of formulating and implementing healthcare-related policies inclusive of drug regulations within the country. MOHAP also plays an important role in approving and monitoring pharmaceuticals for public safety. Furthermore, Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) as well as Emirates Health Services Establishment (EHSE) contributes towards this framework with each one overseeing the health services in its region. For instance, stringent regulations on drug registration, importation, and distribution have been put in place through joint efforts between these two entities to conform to internationally recognized standards. On another note, the UAE adheres to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) unified registration system which makes it easy to register pharmaceuticals across all member countries. This kind of harmonization ensures that the introduction of new medical products is done promptly and without any delays thus increasing the efficiency for such processes. In order to maintain high standards, manufacturing plants undergo strict inspections throughout their premises while post-market surveillance is enforced by regulatory authorities in the UAE.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players:

• AbbVie
• Pfizer
• Johnson & Johnson
• AstraZeneca
• Novartis
• Sanofi
• Merck & Co.
• Tabuk Pharmaceuticals
• Pharmed
• Julphur Pharmaceuticals