According to a new report published by Introspective Market Research, titled, Pemetrexed Market by Type, Application, and Distribution Channel, The Global Pemetrexed Market Size Was Valued at USD 2,543.6 Million in 2023 and is Projected to Reach USD 3,104.8 Million by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 2.24%. The global Pemetrexed Market is witnessing moderate but consistent growth driven by the rising prevalence of lung cancer and other solid tumors across the globe. Pemetrexed, a folate antimetabolite chemotherapy drug, is primarily used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma. Its mechanism targets folate-dependent enzymes crucial for DNA and RNA synthesis, thereby preventing cancer cell proliferation.
Compared to traditional chemotherapy options, Pemetrexed offers a favorable safety profile and better patient outcomes, especially when combined with platinum-based drugs. The growing adoption of combination therapies and continuous advancements in oncology treatment protocols have further strengthened the demand for Pemetrexed in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
Additionally, the increasing investments in oncology research, rising healthcare spending, and expanding access to cancer treatments in emerging economies are expected to boost market growth. Pharmaceutical companies are also focusing on developing generic versions of Pemetrexed, thereby expanding treatment accessibility and affordability worldwide.
One of the key drivers fueling the Pemetrexed Market is the rising prevalence of lung cancer globally. According to WHO and major cancer research organizations, lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The growing incidence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which constitutes nearly 85% of all lung cancer cases, has significantly driven demand for effective chemotherapy drugs such as Pemetrexed. Furthermore, improvements in diagnostic technologies and early cancer detection have increased the number of patients eligible for Pemetrexed-based therapy.
A major opportunity for the Pemetrexed Market lies in the expanding availability of generic Pemetrexed formulations. With several patents expiring, multiple pharmaceutical companies are entering the market with cost-effective alternatives, particularly in developing regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America. These generics are expected to enhance treatment affordability and accessibility, creating substantial growth potential. Additionally, increasing collaborations between research institutions and pharmaceutical companies to explore new combination therapies involving Pemetrexed will open further avenues for market expansion.
Pemetrexed Market, Segmentation
The Pemetrexed Market is segmented on the basis of Type, Application, and Distribution Channel.
Type
- The Type segment is further classified into Branded and Generic. Among these, the Generic Pemetrexed segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. The increasing approval of generic formulations, combined with growing awareness about cost-effective cancer treatments, has propelled the adoption of generic Pemetrexed globally. Governments in emerging markets are also supporting the use of generics through favorable policies and reimbursement programs, further driving this segment’s growth.
Application
- The Application segment is further classified into Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), Mesothelioma, and Others. Among these, the Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. This dominance is attributed to the high global burden of NSCLC and the effectiveness of Pemetrexed in combination therapy regimens. The growing use of Pemetrexed in first-line and maintenance treatment settings for NSCLC patients continues to sustain the segment’s leadership.
Some of The Leading/Active Market Players Are-
- Eli Lilly and Company (United States)
- Pfizer Inc. (United States)
- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Israel)
- Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (India)
- Sandoz International GmbH (Germany)
- Mylan N.V. (United States)
- Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India)
- Cipla Ltd. (India)
- Fresenius Kabi AG (Germany)
- Lupin Limited (India)
- Accord Healthcare Ltd. (United Kingdom)
- Zydus Lifesciences Ltd. (India)
- Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (India)
- STADA Arzneimittel AG (Germany)
- and other active players.
Key Industry Developments
- In April 2024, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. launched its generic version of Pemetrexed for Injection in the U.S. market.
- This launch marked a major step toward expanding affordable oncology treatments in North America and strengthening the company’s oncology portfolio.
- In June 2023, Eli Lilly and Company announced the expansion of its Pemetrexed production facility to meet growing global demand.
- This move aims to improve drug availability and address supply chain constraints, ensuring timely delivery of Pemetrexed to healthcare facilities worldwide.
Key Findings of the Study
- Generic Pemetrexed segment dominated the market in 2023.
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) remains the leading application segment.
- North America held the largest regional share in 2023.
- Increasing prevalence of cancer and rising adoption of generics are key growth drivers.
- Market players are focusing on R&D collaborations and regional expansions.
