Top 6 Companies in the Anti-Infectives Market

The global anti-infectives market was valued at USD 128.71 billion in 2023, driven by the rising prevalence of infectious diseases across the globe. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period 2024-2032 to reach a value of USD 188 billion by 2032.

Anti-infectives restrain the spread of an infectious disease inside the body. These medicines can either be administered intravenously, orally or be applied topically on the skin as ointments or creams. The market for anti-infectives is witnessing significant growth in infectious diseases. For instance, the World Health Organization in World Health Statistics 2024 estimated that by the end of 2022, nearly 39 million individuals were living with HIV globally among which 27.5 million were individuals aged 15 years and above and about 1.5 million were children aged 15 years and below. Further, it was estimated that 10.6 million people developed tuberculosis in 2022, of which 55% were men, 33% were women and 12% were children under 15 years of age. Moreover, in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases in 85 endemic countries and areas, leading to an estimated 631,000 deaths. Additionally, an estimated 304 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B and C in 2022. Out of these, 254 million were living with hepatitis B and 50 million with hepatitis C.

There is an increased antimicrobial resistance to anti-infective agents, bolstering the market demand for novel treatment options. Due to this, the market is experiencing increasing research and development activities to explore and bring new anti-infective treatment options for patients suffering from infectious diseases. For instance, in January 2024, some scientists developed a new type of antibiotic to treat current antibiotic-resistant bacteria that accounts for a large number of human deaths due to invasive infections.

The rising number of research studies with positive results is leading to rising approvals by regulatory authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA approvals play a pivotal role in the credibility of medical products, drugs, or devices, which contributes to easy distribution in the market which in turn increases the availability of wanted drugs in the market, bolstering market development. For instance, in April 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Zevtera (ceftobiprole medocaril sodium for injection) for the treatment of adults with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (bacteremia) (SAB), including those with right-sided infective endocarditis; adults with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI); and adult and pediatric patients three months to less than 18 years old with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).

Additionally, in June 2024, Chennai-based Orchid Pharma announced the launch of its new drug - Cefepime-Enmetazobactam, which has been approved for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) indications. The company is the only Indian pharmaceutical company that invented a New Chemical Entity (NCE).

Further, the surge in hospital-acquired infections and the demand for novel therapies to fight emerging viruses accelerates market growth. Additionally, advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research are contributing to the development of more effective and targeted antimicrobial agents.

Major Companies Shaping the Global Anti-Infectives Market in 2024

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in California, Gilead Sciences is a global biopharmaceutical company specializing in antiviral therapies. The company offers a portfolio that includes antiviral drugs like Veklury (remdesivir), used in treating viral infections, including HIV, hepatitis, and COVID-19.

Sandoz International GmbH

A division of Novartis, Sandoz is a global leader in generic pharmaceuticals and biosimilars, including anti-infectives. The company portfolio covers a broad range of antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals, aimed at treating bacterial and fungal infections, helping make vital medications more accessible worldwide.

Pfizer Inc.

Founded in 1849 and headquartered in New York, Pfizer is a leading pharmaceutical company. The company portfolio includes widely used antibiotics like Zithromax and Tygacil, as well as antiviral treatments. Pfizer focuses on providing advanced treatments for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

GlaxoSmithKline Plc.

Founded in 2000 and based in the UK, GSK is a global pharmaceutical company with a robust anti-infective portfolio. The company offers a range of anti-infectives targeting bacterial infections, respiratory infections, and diseases like HIV, among others.

Abbott Laboratories

Founded in 1888 and headquartered in Illinois, Abbott Laboratories focuses on healthcare solutions across various sectors. The company portfolio includes antibiotics and antiviral medications, focusing on broad-spectrum treatments for infections and illnesses related to bacterial and viral pathogens.

Alcon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Switzerland, Alcon specialises in eye care products. The company offers antibiotic and antiviral ophthalmic solutions, such as moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin eye drops, aimed at treating bacterial infections of the eye and surrounding tissues.