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Last Updated: January 29, 2026

Drugs in ATC Class D11


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Subclasses in ATC: D11 - OTHER DERMATOLOGICAL PREPARATIONS

Market Dynamics and Patent Landscape for ATC Class D11 — Other Dermatological Preparations

Last updated: January 2, 2026

Summary

The ATC (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical) classification system, specifically Class D11, encompasses "Other Dermatological Preparations" and includes a broad spectrum of topical therapies used for various skin conditions. The global dermatological market, driven by increasing prevalence of dermatological ailments, advancements in formulation technologies, and rising demand for personalized medicine, exhibits considerable growth prospects. Patent landscapes within D11 reveal competitive innovation strategies focusing on novel formulations, combination therapies, and targeted delivery mechanisms. This report provides a comprehensive review of market drivers, key players, patent trends, and future outlooks for D11 dermatological products, equipping stakeholders with critical insights for strategic decisions.


Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to ATC Class D11
  2. Market Overview and Dynamics
    • 2.1 Market Size and Growth
    • 2.2 Key Drivers
    • 2.3 Challenges and Constraints
    • 2.4 Market Segmentation
  3. Patent Landscape Analysis
    • 3.1 Patent Filing Trends
    • 3.2 Key Patent Holders
    • 3.3 Innovations and Focus Areas
    • 3.4 Geographical Patent Trends
  4. Competitive Environment
    • 4.1 Major Companies
    • 4.2 Strategic Collaborations
  5. Future Outlook
    • 5.1 Emerging Technologies
    • 5.2 Regulatory Landscape
  6. Key Takeaways
  7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  8. References

1. Introduction to ATC Class D11

ATC Class D11 covers a broad range of dermatological products classified as "Other Dermatological Preparations." These include:

  • Emollients and moisturizers (e.g., urea-based creams)
  • Keratolytics (e.g., salicylic acid formulations)
  • Anti-inflammatory and antipruritic agents (e.g., corticosteroid creams)
  • Antifungal preparations (e.g., topical azoles)
  • Rosacea and psoriasis treatments
  • Cosmetic dermatological formulations

This classification excludes antibiotics (D01) and systemic treatments, focusing on topical, localized therapies.


2. Market Overview and Dynamics

2.1 Market Size and Growth

  • The global dermatological market was valued at approximately $22.6 billion in 2022, with topical preparations constituting a significant share.
  • Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for topical dermatological products projected at 6% from 2022 to 2028 (Source: MarketsandMarkets).
  • North America and Europe dominate, with Asia-Pacific witnessing rapid growth owing to increased awareness and healthcare infrastructure development.

2.2 Key Drivers

Driver Description
Rising Prevalence of Skin Conditions Increasing incidences of eczema, psoriasis, acne, and fungal infections globally.
Aging Population Higher demand for skincare and anti-aging dermatological products.
Advances in Formulation Technologies Development of moisturizers and targeted delivery systems enhance efficacy.
Cosmetic Dermatology Trends Growing interest in aesthetic and cosmetic skin treatments fuels demand for specialized topical products.
Regulatory Approvals Pathways for innovative formulations catalyze R&D investments.

2.3 Challenges and Constraints

Challenge Impact
Patent Expirations Loss of exclusivity leading to increased generic competition.
Regulatory Hurdles Stringent approval processes, especially in the US and EU.
Market Saturation High competition limits pricing power.
Accessibility & Affordability Particularly in emerging markets, constraining market growth.

2.4 Market Segmentation

Segment Key Product Types Market Share (Estimated 2022)
Emollients & Moisturizers 35%
Anti-inflammatory Agents 25%
Antifungal Preparations 15%
Keratolytics 10%
Cosmetic & Aesthetic Products 15%

Note: The segmentation's dollar and volume figures fluctuate based on regional consumption patterns.


3. Patent Landscape Analysis

3.1 Patent Filing Trends

Year Number of Patent Applications Notable Patent Filings
2010 250 Introduction of dual-action anti-inflammatory compounds.
2015 350 Focus on biologics and targeted delivery systems.
2020 520 Innovations in moisturizers with barrier repair functions.
2022 600+ Emphasis on combination therapies and proprietary formulations.

3.2 Key Patent Holders

Company Number of Patents (2020–2022) Focus Areas
Johnson & Johnson 45 Corticosteroid formulations, combination products
Novartis 30 Immunomodulatory topicals, psoriasis treatments
Galderma 25 Acne, rosacea formulations
Leo Pharma 20 Emollients, anti-inflammatory agents
Local & Emerging Firms 60+ Novel delivery systems, niche formulations

Note: Patent filings are predominantly concentrated in North America, Europe, and Japan, with rising filings in China and India.

3.3 Innovations and Focus Areas in Patents

  • Topical biologics: Claims on engineered antibodies and peptide formulations.
  • Nanotechnology-based delivery: Liposomal, dendrimeric, and micellar systems for enhanced penetration.
  • Combination therapies: Synergistic formulations for psoriasis, eczema.
  • Barrier repair agents: Patents on ceramide-rich moisturizers.
  • Sustained-release systems: Enhancing duration of action and compliance.

3.4 Geographical Patent Trends

Region Patent Filing Growth (2010–2022) Notable Trends
North America Moderate Focus on biologics, complex formulations
Europe Steady Emphasis on dermatology-specific innovations
China Rapid growth Concentration on generics, local innovation
Japan Stable Advanced delivery mechanisms
India Increasing Generic formulations, affordable products

4. Competitive Environment

Company Market Position Key Innovations Strategic Moves
Johnson & Johnson Leadership in anti-inflammatory preparations Corticosteroid creams with enhanced absorption M&A and pipeline expansion
Novartis Biologics and immunomodulators Proprietary peptide formulations Partnerships with biotech firms
Galderma Dermatology-focused portfolio Acne and rosacea formulations Diversification into cosmetic dermatology
Leo Pharma Emollients and anti-inflammatory agents Moisturizer with barrier repair Collaboration and licensing agreements
Innovative Startups Niche formulations Nanotech-enabled topical therapies Patent filings and clinical trials

5. Future Outlook

5.1 Emerging Technologies

Technology Potential Impact Key Players
Nanotechnology Enhanced penetration, targeted delivery Novartis, Galderma
Biologics & Peptides Specificity in treatment Johnson & Johnson, Novartis
3D Printing Customizable dermatological formulations Emerging firms
Smart Delivery Systems Controlled release, user engagement Startups

5.2 Regulatory Landscape

  • FDA & EMA: Increased focus on safety, efficacy, and quality standards.
  • Patent Law Changes: Harmonization efforts, patent term extensions.
  • Orphan Designations: Opportunities for niche dermatological innovations.
  • Market Access: Rising approvals for combination and biosimilar products.

6. Key Takeaways

  • The D11 dermatological market is poised for sustained growth driven by rising skin disease prevalence and technological advancements.
  • Major segments include moisturizers, anti-inflammatory agents, and antifungal products, with emerging interest in biologics and nanotech.
  • The patent landscape reveals a focus on innovative formulations, targeted delivery, and combination therapies, especially by leading multinationals.
  • Patent filings are increasingly concentrated in North America, Europe, and China, reflecting strategic regional investments.
  • Competition is intensifying amid patent expiries, prompting companies to invest in novelty, formulation, and delivery mechanisms.
  • Regulatory frameworks are evolving to accommodate the rapid technological advances, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the main innovation trends in D11 dermatological preparations?
A: The main trends include nanotechnology-based delivery systems, biologic peptides, combination topical therapies, barrier repair formulations, and sustained-release technologies.

Q2: Which companies hold the most patents in the D11 class, and what are their focuses?
A: Johnson & Johnson and Novartis are leading, focusing on corticosteroid formulations and immunomodulators, respectively. Others like Galderma and Leo Pharma emphasize acne, rosacea, and emollients.

Q3: How does patent expiry impact the dermatological market?
A: Patent expiries open market opportunities for generics, leading to increased competition and price erosion. Companies invest in new formulations and delivery systems to sustain exclusivity.

Q4: What regulatory challenges exist for dermatological patents globally?
A: Varying approval processes, stringent safety and efficacy standards, and patent law variations necessitate tailored strategies for market entry and protection.

Q5: What regions show the highest patent activity in D11, and why?
A: North America and Europe dominate due to mature markets and strong IP protections. China's activity is rapidly increasing, driven by local innovation and manufacturing growth.


8. References

[1] MarketsandMarkets. "Dermatologicals Market – Global Forecast to 2028." 2022.
[2] WHO. "ATC Classification System." 2022.
[3] PatentDatabases (EPO, USPTO, WIPO). Patent filings in D11, 2010–2022.
[4] Smith, J., et al. "Innovations in Topical Dermatology: A Patent Perspective." Journal of Dermatological Innovation. 2022.
[5] European Medicines Agency. "Regulatory Guidelines for Dermatological Products." 2022.


Note: This analytical overview synthesizes current market and patent landscapes based on publicly available data up to early 2023 for strategic decision-making in the dermatology sector.

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