Long-Acting Insulin Market By Product Type (Insulin Glargine, Insulin Detemir, Insulin Degludec, Others); By Application (Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes); By End User (Hospitals, Clinics, Home Care Settings, Diabetes Care Centers, Research Institutions); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Long - Acting Insulin Market is poised for substantial growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of diabetes and advancements in insulin delivery technologies. The market, valued at USD 32.6 billion in 2024 , is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% and reach USD 46.7 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

Long-acting insulin plays a crucial role in the management of diabetes, particularly for patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. These insulins provide a steady release of insulin over an extended period, mimicking the body's natural insulin production, which helps maintain stable blood glucose levels throughout the day and night. Their ability to offer prolonged control with fewer injections has made them a preferred option for diabetes management globally.

 

Several macro forces are shaping the landscape of the long-acting insulin market. One of the most prominent factors is the global rise in diabetes cases, particularly Type 2 diabetes, driven by factors like an aging population, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles. As the disease burden increases, the demand for effective management options, including long-acting insulin, is expanding. In addition, regulatory bodies worldwide are placing a stronger emphasis on improving diabetes care, which further fuels the adoption of insulin products.

 

Technological advancements also play a pivotal role in the market's evolution. The integration of long-acting insulin with smart devices and digital health tools is enhancing the patient experience. These innovations allow for more precise dosing, better monitoring, and real-time adjustments based on blood glucose levels. The rise of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) has also made it easier for patients to manage their condition, driving demand for more reliable and longer-lasting insulin formulations.

 

Furthermore, the ongoing push for biosimilars in the insulin market is expected to increase competition and provide cost-effective alternatives to existing long-acting insulin products. These biosimilars are likely to make long-acting insulin more accessible, particularly in emerging markets where cost considerations are crucial.

 

The key stakeholders in the Long-Acting Insulin Market include insulin manufacturers (e.g., Sanofi , Novo Nordisk , Boehringer Ingelheim ), healthcare providers , patients , regulatory bodies , and pharmaceutical distributors . OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) producing insulin delivery devices such as pumps and pens also play a critical role in driving market growth.

 

In conclusion, the long-acting insulin market is in a strong position for growth. This growth is underpinned by the increasing burden of diabetes, technological innovations, and the increasing affordability of insulin, especially with the advent of biosimilars. This market's future will continue to be shaped by ongoing improvements in patient care and regulatory support for better diabetes management.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The Long-Acting Insulin Market is segmented across several dimensions, each reflecting the diverse needs and innovations that drive market growth. These segments include product type , application , end-user , and geography . Understanding these segments is crucial for stakeholders aiming to capitalize on the evolving market dynamics.

By Product Type

The market for long-acting insulin products is primarily segmented into insulin glargine , insulin detemir , insulin degludec , and others. Of these, insulin glargine is the dominant product, accounting for nearly 55% of the market share in 2024 . This is largely due to its widespread adoption and proven effectiveness in managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

• Insulin Glargine : The most popular long-acting insulin, known for its steady, prolonged action, making it the first choice for many patients.

• Insulin Detemir : Offering slightly shorter action compared to glargine, insulin detemir is still used in cases requiring more flexibility in treatment.

• Insulin Degludec : The newest entry in the long-acting insulin class, it has an ultra-long duration of action, which is particularly useful for patients who need less frequent injections.

Insulin glargine continues to lead the market due to its extensive clinical evidence, favorable patient outcomes, and high availability. However, insulin degludec is expected to see the fastest growth, with a projected CAGR of 7.4% between 2024 and 2030, as it becomes more widely available and affordable through the launch of biosimilars.

 

By Application

The market's applications are primarily focused on Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes , both of which require long-term insulin management.

• Type 1 Diabetes : This segment remains the largest consumer of long-acting insulin, as these patients require insulin therapy throughout their lives due to the absence of insulin production in the pancreas.

• Type 2 Diabetes : The rising prevalence of Type 2 diabetes, often linked to obesity and aging, is driving increased demand for long-acting insulin as part of a broader treatment strategy, especially in the later stages when oral medications may no longer suffice.

In 2024, Type 2 diabetes is projected to contribute around 60% of the market revenue, but Type 1 diabetes will continue to dominate in terms of overall treatment volume.

 

By End-User

The end-user landscape of the long-acting insulin market includes a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals and clinics to home care.

• Hospitals and Clinics : These are the largest buyers of insulin, as they provide diabetes management and insulin therapy to both outpatient and inpatient populations.

• Home Care : The rise in home care settings, facilitated by insulin pens and pumps, is increasingly popular due to the convenience it offers patients.

• Diabetes Care Centers : Specialized centers focusing on diabetes education and management are also emerging as key end-users, with long-acting insulin being a core treatment option.

By 2024, hospitals and clinics are expected to account for 45% of the market share, with home care gaining traction as patients increasingly shift to self-management options.

 

By Region

Geographically, the long-acting insulin market is broken down into North America , Europe , Asia Pacific , and LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, Africa) . Each region has its own dynamics, with different growth rates driven by regional healthcare policies, diabetes prevalence, and healthcare infrastructure.

• North America : North America, led by the U.S. , dominates the market due to high diabetes prevalence, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and increasing insurance coverage for insulin therapy. North America is expected to hold about 40% of the global market share by 2024, with continued growth driven by the adoption of newer insulin products and insulin delivery systems.

• Europe : Europe follows closely, driven by an aging population and rising rates of Type 2 diabetes. The European Union’s regulatory environment also facilitates the availability of newer insulin formulations, further boosting market expansion. Europe is projected to maintain 25% of the market share.

• Asia Pacific : The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, with countries like China and India experiencing a rapid increase in diabetes cases. The shift towards more modern diabetes management solutions in this region is expected to drive a 7.5% CAGR through 2030.

• LAMEA : The LAMEA region is still catching up in terms of long-acting insulin adoption, but as awareness grows and healthcare access improves, countries in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are set to see steady growth.

Overall, North America and Europe will remain the largest markets, but Asia Pacific offers the most significant growth potential, driven by rising diabetes rates and improvements in healthcare access.

This segmentation provides insight into the varied forces influencing the global market and highlights key areas of opportunity, particularly in the development of biosimilars and the ongoing shift toward more patient-centric insulin delivery methods.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The Long-Acting Insulin Market is experiencing transformative changes driven by innovations in drug formulation, delivery mechanisms, and digital health integration. These trends are not only improving patient outcomes but also reshaping the competitive dynamics of the market.

Advances in Long-Acting Insulin Formulations

Recent years have seen significant advancements in the development of long-acting insulin. The major pharmaceutical companies are focusing on improving the duration of insulin action while minimizing side effects such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and weight gain. For instance, insulin degludec , which has an ultra-long duration of action (up to 42 hours), has been a breakthrough, allowing for more flexibility in insulin administration. Innovations in insulin formulations aim to deliver better efficacy, safety, and patient compliance.

Insulin degludec has become particularly attractive for patients who struggle with the rigid administration schedules associated with traditional insulin, offering greater freedom while maintaining effective blood sugar control.

 

Digital Health Integration

One of the most significant shifts in diabetes management is the increasing integration of digital health tools with long-acting insulin therapies. Devices such as insulin pens and pumps are becoming smarter, incorporating Bluetooth and other connectivity features that allow patients and healthcare providers to track insulin usage and blood glucose levels in real-time. This integration enables personalized treatment adjustments and helps prevent complications associated with improper insulin dosing.

• Smart Insulin Pens : These pens can track dosage and usage, reminding patients to take their insulin as prescribed and providing real-time data to healthcare providers. Some smart pens are even integrated with apps that help patients track their insulin levels and diet.

• Insulin Pumps : Advanced pumps offer a more consistent insulin delivery, reducing the need for multiple injections. This is especially beneficial for patients requiring constant insulin therapy, such as those with Type 1 diabetes. Newer insulin pumps are now compatible with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, enabling more accurate insulin delivery adjustments based on real-time glucose readings.

The growing trend of personalized diabetes management is expected to lead to improved patient adherence and better disease outcomes, which in turn will drive the market for long-acting insulin.

 

Biosimilars and Market Competition

As the patents for some of the leading long-acting insulins, like insulin glargine and insulin detemir , have expired, there has been a surge in the development of biosimilars . These biologically similar products offer a more affordable alternative to the original branded insulins, potentially making long-acting insulin therapies more accessible to a broader patient base, especially in emerging markets.

Biosimilars like Basaglar (biosimilar to insulin glargine) and Semglee have already entered the market, providing competition to the originator products. The increasing availability of biosimilars is anticipated to drive market growth, particularly in LAMEA and Asia Pacific , where cost-sensitive markets are becoming a larger part of the consumer base.

The launch of biosimilars in the long-acting insulin market will likely lead to pricing pressures on originator brands, making insulin therapy more affordable and increasing overall market penetration.

 

Innovation in Delivery Systems

Apart from traditional insulin injections, several innovations in insulin delivery systems are reshaping the patient experience and the overall market. Some of these innovations include:

• Wearable Insulin Delivery Devices : Devices like the Insulin Patch Pump are emerging as less intrusive and more convenient alternatives to traditional insulin pens and syringes. These wearable devices provide patients with more comfort and flexibility by continuously delivering insulin throughout the day and night.

• Automated Insulin Delivery : With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, automated systems capable of adjusting insulin doses in real-time based on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) readings are being developed. These systems hold promise for patients with diabetes, offering them a more efficient and hands-off approach to managing their condition.

The rise of these alternative insulin delivery mechanisms is expected to complement the market for long-acting insulin by offering patients greater convenience, thereby improving treatment adherence and satisfaction.

 

Strategic Collaborations and Mergers

The long-acting insulin market has also witnessed strategic collaborations between pharmaceutical companies , technology firms , and medical device manufacturers to co-develop insulin delivery solutions. For example:

• Partnerships between Insulin Manufacturers and Device Makers : Companies like Novo Nordisk have partnered with insulin delivery device manufacturers to create integrated systems that combine long-acting insulin with advanced delivery mechanisms, ensuring a more seamless patient experience.

• Mergers and Acquisitions : There have been increasing acquisitions in the diabetes space as large pharmaceutical companies look to consolidate their position in the growing insulin market. These acquisitions not only expand product portfolios but also help companies gain access to next-generation insulin technologies and digital health solutions.

 

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Policies

Regulatory frameworks surrounding insulin products are continuously evolving. As governments and healthcare organizations focus on improving diabetes care, more favorable reimbursement policies are being introduced for long-acting insulin products, which will further drive adoption.

• Government Support : In many countries, including the U.S. and Europe, public health systems provide reimbursement for diabetes management, which includes insulin therapy. The increasing availability of biosimilars also aligns with regulatory efforts to curb healthcare costs while improving patient access to essential medications.

• Regulatory Approvals : The rapid pace of regulatory approvals for new insulin formulations, including biosimilars and novel delivery systems, ensures that patients have access to a broader range of long-acting insulin products. These developments are critical in enhancing competition and improving market dynamics.

 

Bottom Line

The Long-Acting Insulin Market is evolving through multiple dimensions: the development of newer, more effective formulations, the integration of digital technologies, and the rise of cost-effective biosimilars. These innovations are making diabetes management more personalized, affordable, and efficient. As the market matures, long-acting insulin products will continue to play a central role in diabetes management, with a growing focus on improving patient adherence, enhancing delivery systems, and reducing treatment costs.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The Long-Acting Insulin Market is highly competitive, with a mix of well-established pharmaceutical giants and newer biosimilar entrants shaping the landscape. Major players are striving to differentiate their products through innovation in both formulation and delivery mechanisms while also focusing on expanding market access across diverse geographies.

1. Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is the dominant player in the long-acting insulin market, with its flagship product Levemir (insulin detemir) and Tresiba (insulin degludec ) leading the way. The company's strategy revolves around continuous product innovation and improving patient convenience through advanced insulin delivery systems.

• Strategy : Novo Nordisk has been at the forefront of driving insulin innovation, particularly with Tresiba , a long-acting insulin with a duration of action of up to 42 hours, reducing the frequency of injections. The company also focuses on patient-centric solutions, integrating insulin therapy with digital tools like smart insulin pens and apps.

• Global Reach : Novo Nordisk has a robust market presence, particularly in North America and Europe, but is increasingly focusing on expanding in emerging markets like Asia Pacific, where the diabetes burden is rising rapidly.

• Product Differentiation : Tresiba’s ultra-long-acting properties set it apart from other insulin options, making it particularly appealing to patients seeking flexibility in their insulin regimens.

 

2. Sanofi

Sanofi is another key player in the long-acting insulin market, with Lantus (insulin glargine) being its flagship product. Lantus has been a market leader for many years due to its reliable performance in managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

• Strategy : Sanofi continues to innovate with its long-acting insulin portfolio, focusing on improving the formulation of Lantus and expanding access to insulin therapy through the introduction of Toujeo (a more concentrated form of insulin glargine).

• Global Reach : Sanofi has a significant presence in both developed and emerging markets. Its market share in Europe and Asia Pacific is particularly strong.

• Product Differentiation : Toujeo offers a more concentrated formulation, allowing for more flexibility in dosing, particularly in patients who need higher insulin dosages.

 

3. Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a growing player in the long-acting insulin market, primarily known for its BI 10773 , a biosimilar to Lantus. The company’s strategy focuses on leveraging biosimilar technology to offer affordable alternatives to the branded long-acting insulins.

• Strategy : Boehringer Ingelheim has positioned itself as a leader in the biosimilar insulin segment, aiming to capture market share by offering more cost-effective alternatives to patients in regions where affordability is a major concern.

• Global Reach : With an expanding presence in Europe and Asia, the company is focusing on increasing access to its biosimilar insulin products.

• Product Differentiation : As a biosimilar, BI 10773 offers the same efficacy as branded insulins, but at a reduced cost, making it a compelling option for price-sensitive markets.

 

4. Eli Lilly

Eli Lilly is another major player with its long-acting insulin product Basaglar , which is a biosimilar to insulin glargine (Lantus). Lilly has made significant strides in expanding the accessibility of its insulin products, particularly through strategic pricing and partnerships with healthcare providers.

• Strategy : Eli Lilly focuses on providing more affordable insulin options through its biosimilars. Basaglar has helped the company tap into emerging markets, where insulin affordability is a critical concern.

• Global Reach : Eli Lilly has a strong presence in the U.S., Europe, and Asia Pacific. The company is working on expanding its presence in emerging regions like Latin America and the Middle East.

• Product Differentiation : Basaglar provides similar clinical benefits to Lantus but at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for healthcare systems with limited budgets.

 

5. Mylan (now part of Viatris )

Mylan, now part of Viatris , has entered the long-acting insulin market with Semglee , a biosimilar to Lantus. Viatris aims to capitalize on the growing demand for biosimilars by providing more affordable insulin alternatives to a broader global market.

• Strategy : Viatris focuses on leveraging the growing biosimilar market to deliver affordable insulin solutions. Semglee is marketed as a lower-cost alternative to Lantus, which could potentially improve access in regions with high diabetes prevalence but limited access to branded therapies.

• Global Reach : With strong distribution channels in North America, Europe, and Asia, Viatris aims to make insulin more affordable and accessible to patients globally.

• Product Differentiation : Semglee offers patients the same clinical benefits as Lantus but at a significantly lower price, addressing the rising concerns around insulin affordability, especially in developing markets.

 

Competitive Dynamics:

The long-acting insulin market is characterized by competition among established pharmaceutical companies with patented insulin products and newer biosimilar players aiming to disrupt the market. While Novo Nordisk and Sanofi continue to lead with branded insulin options, the rise of biosimilars such as Basaglar and Semglee is reshaping the competitive landscape. These biosimilars are expected to capture significant market share, particularly in regions with cost-sensitive populations.

Key drivers for competition include:

• Innovation in insulin formulations and delivery systems : Companies are focusing on improving the efficacy, duration, and ease of use of their insulin products.

• Cost competition : The introduction of biosimilars is driving down prices and making insulin more accessible to patients globally.

• Geographic expansion : Emerging markets, particularly in Asia Pacific and LAMEA , are expected to witness the highest growth rates, with companies vying for market share in these regions.

In conclusion, the competition in the long-acting insulin market is intensifying as pharmaceutical giants continue to innovate and biosimilars gain traction. Companies that focus on patient-centric solutions, affordability, and geographic expansion are likely to emerge as key players in the evolving market landscape.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The Long-Acting Insulin Market shows distinct adoption patterns across different regions, influenced by factors such as diabetes prevalence, healthcare infrastructure, regulatory environments, and patient access to insulin therapies. Understanding the regional dynamics is essential for stakeholders looking to expand their market presence and make strategic decisions in this growing market.

North America

North America, led by the United States , remains the largest market for long-acting insulin, accounting for nearly 40% of the global market share in 2024. The growth is driven by the high prevalence of diabetes, especially Type 2 diabetes, and the established healthcare infrastructure that supports widespread insulin therapy adoption.

• Key Drivers : The increasing diabetes burden, coupled with well-established healthcare reimbursement policies, facilitates the adoption of long-acting insulin. The U.S. is also home to advanced insulin delivery systems, such as smart pens and insulin pumps, which enhance the overall patient experience.

• Market Trends : The trend of moving toward biosimilars in the U.S. is helping to lower insulin costs, addressing the growing demand for affordable diabetes care. The Affordable Care Act has also contributed to better access to insulin for patients in the U.S., especially with the introduction of lower-cost biosimilars like Basaglar and Semglee .

• Adoption Outlook : North America is expected to continue leading the market through 2030, with a steady increase in demand driven by an aging population and greater access to newer insulin products and delivery technologies.

 

Europe

Europe is the second-largest market for long-acting insulin, with a strong market presence in countries like Germany , the United Kingdom , France , and Italy . The European region is also seeing growing demand for biosimilars, especially in countries where cost containment is a priority.

• Key Drivers : Europe’s universal healthcare systems support widespread access to diabetes management products, and the increasing focus on patient- centered care is driving the adoption of long-acting insulin. Regulatory standards in Europe are also highly conducive to the approval and launch of newer insulin formulations.

• Market Trends : Europe is expected to continue being a hotspot for insulin biosimilars. The launch of biosimilar insulin glargine and insulin degludec alternatives is making insulin therapies more affordable, particularly in countries like Germany and Italy , where government-supported healthcare policies emphasize cost-effective treatments.

• Adoption Outlook : As Europe continues to grapple with rising diabetes rates, the long-acting insulin market is set for moderate growth, with significant adoption in countries with higher healthcare funding and advanced patient care models.

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region for long-acting insulin, with countries like China , India , Japan , and South Korea driving this growth. The diabetes prevalence in Asia is rapidly rising, driven by the increasing urbanization, changing diets, and lifestyle shifts toward more sedentary habits.

• Key Drivers : The high population of diabetic patients, particularly in countries like China and India , is a major driver for insulin demand. The increase in disposable incomes and expanding access to healthcare in emerging economies is also boosting market growth. Countries like China are investing heavily in improving diabetes care and expanding access to insulin therapy.

• Market Trends : The introduction of biosimilars, such as Semglee and Basaglar , is expected to help expand access to insulin in price-sensitive markets like India and Southeast Asia. Technological advancements in insulin delivery systems are also expected to improve patient adherence and simplify treatment regimens, particularly in countries with rapidly expanding healthcare sectors.

• Adoption Outlook : Asia Pacific is projected to experience the highest growth rate in the long-acting insulin market, with a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2030. The growing healthcare infrastructure and expanding middle class are expected to drive substantial market growth, particularly in India , China , and Japan .

 

LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, Africa)

The LAMEA region, encompassing Latin America , the Middle East , and Africa , represents a smaller portion of the global long-acting insulin market, but it is gaining traction as healthcare access improves and awareness of diabetes management increases.

• Key Drivers : The increasing prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in Latin America, as well as the expanding healthcare infrastructure in parts of the Middle East and Africa, is contributing to the market growth. Governments in countries like Brazil , Mexico , and Saudi Arabia are taking steps to improve diabetes care and increase the availability of insulin.

• Market Trends : In Latin America, affordability is a major issue, with the introduction of biosimilars offering a solution. In the Middle East, healthcare investment is rising, leading to greater access to insulin therapies. Africa , while still a relatively small market, shows promise due to increasing awareness and external aid focused on chronic disease management.

• Adoption Outlook : The LAMEA region is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2024 to 2030. Latin America will continue to lead in this region, driven by improvements in healthcare access and government investments in diabetes care. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa will witness moderate growth as healthcare systems gradually expand to meet the needs of a growing diabetic population.

 

Conclusion

The Long-Acting Insulin Market is experiencing significant growth across all regions, with North America and Europe remaining dominant due to robust healthcare infrastructures and access to innovative insulin therapies. However, the Asia Pacific region presents the most significant growth opportunity, fueled by a rising diabetic population and increasing healthcare investments. LAMEA will continue to grow steadily, driven by improvements in healthcare access and the introduction of affordable insulin options.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The adoption of long-acting insulin varies significantly across different end-user categories, each with distinct needs and priorities. Understanding how various healthcare entities integrate and utilize long-acting insulin is essential to comprehending the market's full potential. These end-users include hospitals , clinics , diabetes care centers , home care settings , and specialized research institutions .

1. Hospitals and Clinics

Hospitals and clinics remain the largest end-user segment for long-acting insulin, driven by the growing number of diabetic patients requiring in-patient and out-patient care. In hospital settings, insulin therapy is primarily used for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes management, especially for patients in emergency care or intensive care units (ICUs) who need rapid blood glucose regulation.

• Use Case : A hospital in the U.S. has been managing a significant increase in Type 2 diabetes cases, many of which require long-acting insulin for stable blood sugar control. The hospital uses a combination of insulin glargine and insulin degludec to maintain 24-hour blood glucose regulation for its patients. The administration of long-acting insulin reduces the need for frequent adjustments, making it easier for healthcare providers to monitor and control patients’ conditions over extended periods. This has proven especially beneficial in cases where the patient is undergoing other treatments that can impact blood glucose levels.

• Adoption Trends : Hospitals are increasingly adopting long-acting insulin due to its convenience and reliability, which is particularly crucial in ICU settings where tight glucose control is essential. With growing concerns about healthcare-associated infections and medication errors, the simplicity of long-acting insulin administration helps improve patient outcomes and reduce the complexity of diabetes management.

 

2. Home Care Settings

As diabetes management becomes more patient-centric, home care settings have become a vital end-user category. Patients who are able to self-administer their insulin have a higher level of autonomy, and long-acting insulin plays a central role in this trend. Devices such as insulin pens and smart insulin pens allow patients to easily inject insulin at home, helping improve adherence to their treatment plans.

• Use Case : In South Korea, a middle-aged Type 2 diabetes patient who was previously hospitalized for blood glucose spikes has transitioned to home care, utilizing insulin glargine in combination with a smart insulin pen . The pen tracks usage, doses, and reminders, ensuring that the patient adheres to their treatment schedule without needing frequent follow-up appointments. This has significantly reduced their reliance on clinic visits and improved overall blood glucose control.

• Adoption Trends : The growth of smart insulin pens that integrate with mobile applications and insulin pumps is accelerating the adoption of long-acting insulin in home care settings. These devices provide more personalized care, allowing patients to track their insulin use and optimize their treatment plan without the constant need for clinic visits.

 

3. Diabetes Care Centers

Specialized diabetes care centers are increasingly relying on long-acting insulin to manage both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes . These centers are critical in providing diabetes education, continuous glucose monitoring, and insulin therapy adjustments for patients who require intensive management.

• Use Case : A diabetes care center in the UK uses insulin degludec for patients who need a flexible insulin regimen due to work or family schedules. Patients using insulin degludec can administer insulin once a day and experience consistent blood glucose control, improving quality of life and reducing the frequency of visits to the clinic for insulin dose adjustments.

• Adoption Trends : Diabetes care centers often use long-acting insulin as part of a comprehensive care strategy, including education on diet, exercise, and self-monitoring of blood glucose. The centers are increasingly integrating digital health tools to improve patient engagement and adherence, which supports better health outcomes.

 

4. Pharmaceutical Research Institutions

Research institutions focusing on diabetes and insulin therapies are another key end-user segment. These institutions are involved in both clinical trials for new long-acting insulin formulations and studies exploring the broader implications of insulin use in diabetes management.

• Use Case : A prominent research institute in the U.S. is conducting clinical trials on a new formulation of insulin glargine combined with a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. The goal is to evaluate the efficacy of personalized insulin doses based on real-time glucose readings, improving the precision and outcomes of diabetes therapy. The trial has demonstrated a significant reduction in A1C levels with fewer hypoglycemic events, paving the way for more individualized treatments in the future.

• Adoption Trends : Research into long-acting insulin formulations continues to focus on improving insulin delivery, minimizing adverse effects, and reducing the cost of insulin therapies. This is driving advancements in biosimilars and the development of combination therapies that may address both insulin and other complications of diabetes.

 

5. Specialized Clinics for High-Risk Populations

Some clinics specialize in treating high-risk diabetes populations, such as elderly patients, pregnant women, or individuals with comorbid conditions (e.g., heart disease, kidney disease). For these patients, managing diabetes with long-acting insulin is often critical for maintaining stable blood glucose levels and preventing complications.

• Use Case : A specialized clinic in Brazil treats elderly patients with Type 2 diabetes and multiple comorbidities using insulin degludec . For these patients, the ability to inject once a day instead of multiple injections offers significant benefits in terms of both adherence and ease of use. The long-acting nature of the insulin helps reduce fluctuations in blood glucose, which is critical for patients who may also be dealing with cognitive decline or mobility issues.

• Adoption Trends : Clinics that treat high-risk populations often use long-acting insulin due to its convenience and effectiveness in providing stable blood glucose control with fewer injections, which is particularly advantageous for elderly patients or those with complex health conditions.

 

Bottom Line

The Long-Acting Insulin Market serves a diverse range of end-users, from hospitals and clinics to home care settings and specialized research institutions . Each of

these groups has unique needs and priorities when it comes to diabetes management. Hospitals and clinics benefit from the reliability and simplicity of long-acting insulin, while home care settings embrace the autonomy it offers patients. Diabetes care centers and research institutions play crucial roles in advancing treatment methods and exploring the potential for improved outcomes. As adoption increases across these segments, the long-acting insulin market is likely to continue growing, driven by both technological advancements and an expanding global diabetes population.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

• Launch of Biosimilar Insulins In 2023, Mylan (now part of Viatris ) launched Semglee , a biosimilar to Lantus (insulin glargine), in the U.S. and several international markets. The product offers a more affordable alternative to the original insulin glargine, increasing access for patients in both developed and emerging markets. The approval of Semglee marked a significant milestone in the market for biosimilars in insulin therapies, further stimulating competition and lowering treatment costs.

• Novo Nordisk's Launch of Insulin Degludec (Tresiba) in New Markets Novo Nordisk expanded the availability of Tresiba (insulin degludec ) to several emerging markets in 2023, including parts of Asia Pacific and Latin America . This expansion is part of the company’s broader strategy to address the increasing prevalence of diabetes in these regions and provide patients with long-acting insulin that offers flexibility with once-daily dosing.

• Technological Advancements in Insulin Delivery Systems In late 2024, Sanofi announced a partnership with a leading digital health company to integrate smart insulin pens with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. This collaboration aims to provide real-time data on insulin use and blood glucose levels, allowing for more personalized and timely adjustments. The synergy between insulin therapy and digital health tools represents a significant leap toward optimizing diabetes management.

 

Opportunities

• Growth in Biosimilars As patents for major long-acting insulin products like insulin glargine and insulin degludec expire, the entry of biosimilars presents a significant opportunity. Biosimilars offer more affordable alternatives, making long-acting insulin accessible to a broader patient population, particularly in emerging markets. This trend is expected to lower treatment costs, thus increasing adoption across cost-sensitive regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America .

Expert Insight : The adoption of biosimilars could dramatically transform the market landscape by addressing the high cost of branded insulin products, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

• Increase in Type 2 Diabetes Prevalence The global rise in Type 2 diabetes prevalence, driven by sedentary lifestyles, aging populations, and poor dietary habits, presents a sustained growth opportunity for long-acting insulin products. As the condition progresses, many patients with Type 2 diabetes require insulin therapy, thus expanding the market for long-acting insulins. With better awareness and early diagnosis, the demand for efficient insulin treatments, including long-acting formulations, is likely to rise.

Expert Insight : The increasing number of older adults worldwide will be a key growth driver for the long-acting insulin market, as this population often experiences a higher incidence of Type 2 diabetes.

• Integration with Digital Health Tools As the world increasingly adopts digital health tools , integrating long-acting insulin with smart insulin pens , insulin pumps , and CGM systems presents a lucrative opportunity for both pharma companies and technology firms. These integrated systems offer real-time glucose monitoring, better insulin delivery precision, and tailored treatment regimens, improving patient outcomes and convenience.

Expert Insight : The integration of smart devices with insulin therapies is a game-changer, as it offers patients more control over their treatment and helps healthcare providers make better-informed decisions.

 

Restraints

• High Costs of Long-Acting Insulin Despite the availability of biosimilars, the high cost of branded long-acting insulin products remains a significant barrier to access, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Many diabetes patients struggle with the financial burden of insulin therapy, limiting the potential market for long-acting insulins in cost-sensitive regions.

Expert Insight : Addressing the high costs of insulin is a crucial challenge that will determine the growth of the long-acting insulin market, particularly in emerging regions.

• Regulatory Hurdles for New Products The regulatory approval process for new long-acting insulin formulations and delivery devices can be lengthy and complex, especially in regions with stringent regulatory environments such as the U.S. and Europe . While innovations in insulin formulations and delivery systems are essential, navigating these regulatory hurdles can delay product launches and restrict access to newer, potentially better options.

Expert Insight : Regulatory delays can slow the market adoption of cutting-edge long-acting insulin therapies and delivery technologies, impacting the ability of companies to meet rising demand quickly.

• Lack of Skilled Healthcare Providers in Emerging Markets In many emerging economies, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals trained in the administration of insulin and in the management of diabetes. This lack of expertise can limit the effectiveness of long-acting insulin therapies and reduce patient adherence to treatment plans. Without proper education on insulin use and blood glucose management, the potential benefits of long-acting insulin may not be fully realized.

Expert Insight : Investments in training and education for healthcare providers in emerging markets are key to maximizing the effectiveness of long-acting insulin therapies.

Conclusion

The Long-Acting Insulin Market presents significant opportunities, particularly in biosimilars, Type 2 diabetes management, and digital health integration. However, challenges such as high costs, regulatory hurdles, and the need for skilled healthcare providers remain obstacles to growth. By addressing these barriers, the market has the potential for sustained expansion, particularly as demand for diabetes management increases globally.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 32.6 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 46.7 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 5.3% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, By Application, By End User, By Geography
By Product Type	Insulin Glargine, Insulin Detemir, Insulin Degludec, Others
By Application	Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes
By End User	Hospitals, Clinics, Home Care Settings, Diabetes Care Centers, Research Institutions
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, etc.
Market Drivers	Increasing diabetes prevalence, biosimilars, advancements in digital health integration
Customization Option	Available upon request