Top Companies in the Postoperative Pain Therapeutics Market

The global postoperative pain therapeutics market was valued at USD 38.50 billion in 2023, driven by the increasing incidence of surgical procedures across the globe. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.79% during the forecast period of 2024-2032, with the values likely to rise from USD 40.73 billion in 2024 to USD 63.89 billion by 2032.

Postoperative pain therapeutics refer to any methods, treatments, or interventions that are used to manage pain in patients followed by a surgical procedure. They include drugs, medical devices, therapies, and others. Management of postoperative pain aims to alleviate suffering and mitigate the physiological and psychological effects associated with acute pain, thereby facilitating a faster recovery and improved patient functioning. Pain relief methods can be administered orally, topically, or via injection and may involve the use of opioids, NSAIDs, or Cox-2 inhibitors. Postoperative pain management is curated for each patient based on the severity of their pain and the most appropriate combination of treatments.

The market growth is fuelled by the rising number of surgical procedures worldwide. These therapeutics commonly consist of opioids that are risky and addictive however they help in pain management after surgeries. Pharmaceutical companies are working on bringing non-opioid alternatives for pain relief to patients while reducing reliance on opioids. For instance, in July 2024, Heron Therapeutics, Inc., a commercial-stage biotechnology company announced that ZYNRELEF® (bupivacaine and meloxicam) is included in the proposed 2025 Non-Opioid Policy for Pain Relief under the Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System ("OPPS") and the Medicare Ambulatory Surgical Center ("ASC") payment system (the "Proposed Rule"). As the drug has been recognised as a non-opioid and its effectiveness in pain management has been analysed, it has been included in the non-opioid policy where its use is encouraged for postoperative pain management. This proposed rule for payment within hospital outpatient departments ("HOPDs") and ASCs was issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services ("CMS").

The launch of new postoperative therapeutics is driving substantial market growth. Technological advancements in these therapeutics are enhancing treatment effectiveness, reducing recovery times, and improving patient outcomes. The market players are bringing cutting-edge, innovative solutions and addressing the growing demand for advanced postoperative therapeutics, thereby solidifying their presence in the competitive market. For instance, in April 2024, AtriCure, Inc., a leading innovator in surgical treatments and therapies for atrial fibrillation (Afib), left atrial appendage (LAA) management, and post-operative pain management, launched the cryoSPHERE®+ cryoablation probe, leveraging new insulation technology to reduce freeze times by 25% versus AtriCure’s legacy cryoSHPERE® device. The product is poised to enhance patient outcomes as it reduces the cryoblation time by 25% resulting in quicker procedures. This may lead to increased adoption of the product by surgeons and healthcare facilities, supporting market growth.

Due to the rising awareness of risks and side effects associated with the use of opioids, there is a significant rise in research activities going on in the market aimed at exploring non-opioids and their effectiveness in postoperative pain management in varied medical conditions. These research and clinical studies play a vital role in clearance of the new therapeutics. For instance, in July 2024, Concentric Analgesics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel, non-opioid pain therapeutics, announced the publication of a multicenter, randomized clinical trial evaluating vocacapsaicin in a highly impactful medical journal. The results of the successful clinical trial highlighted a substantial reduction in pain and opioid use for at least one week after bunionectomy with a single dose of vocacapsaicin.

Top Companies Leading the Postoperative Pain Therapeutics Market in 2024

1.    Teva Pharmaceutical Industries

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries is a global leader in generic medicines and specialty pharmaceuticals, offering a wide portfolio of pain management solutions, including postoperative pain therapeutics. The company focuses on developing and delivering high-quality, affordable treatments to enhance patient care worldwide.

2.    Novartis AG

Novartis AG is a multinational healthcare company dedicated to innovating and producing a wide range of therapeutic solutions. The company offers advanced pain management options in pharmaceuticals to improve patient recovery outcomes.

3.    Allergan

Allergan, now part of AbbVie, specializes in developing and marketing innovative pharmaceuticals and medical devices. With a focus on pain management, the company provides a variety of postoperative pain therapies, aiming to reduce patient discomfort and enhance recovery after surgery.

4.    Mylan N.V

Mylan N.V., now part of Viatris, was established in 1961. In November 2020, Mylan and Upjohn (a division of Pfizer) merged and formed a company called Viatris. The company is a significant player in generic drugs and specialised drugs offering cost-effective pain relief solutions to support patient recovery.

5.    Pfizer

Pfizer is a leading biopharmaceutical company that develops and manufactures healthcare products, including a broad range of pain management therapies. The company’s portfolio includes innovative treatments designed to alleviate pain and improve patient outcomes.

6.    Purdue Pharma

Purdue Pharma is a pharmaceutical company known for its development of pain management medications. The company focuses on providing effective opioid and non-opioid options to manage severe pain following surgical procedures.

7.    Janssen Pharmaceuticals

Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, is dedicated to developing innovative treatments across various therapeutic areas. The company offers a range of pain relief products aimed at improving the quality of life for patients recovering from surgery.

8.    Endo International

Endo International is a global pharmaceutical company specializing in pain management and urology. With a strong focus on postoperative pain therapeutics, the company provides both opioid and non-opioid solutions designed to manage pain effectively and support patient recovery.