Last updated: December 31, 2024
Overview of Lantus Solostar
Lantus Solostar, a long-acting human insulin analog, is a key product in the diabetes management market. It is indicated for once-daily administration to control blood sugar levels in adults, adolescents, and children aged two years and above with diabetes mellitus. Developed by Sanofi, Lantus has been a cornerstone in the treatment of diabetes, particularly for those requiring basal insulin therapy[1][4][5].
Current Market Status
As of 2022, the global insulin glargine market, which includes Lantus, was valued at USD 1.29 billion. However, Lantus itself has faced significant challenges in recent years. The sales of Lantus have been declining due to several factors:
- Patent Expiration: The patent for Lantus expired in 2014, allowing competitors to launch biosimilar versions. Eli Lilly's Basaglar and Sanofi's own Toujeo are notable examples of these biosimilars[1][5].
- Competition from Biosimilars: The introduction of biosimilars such as Basaglar and Toujeo has eroded Lantus' market share. These biosimilars offer similar efficacy at lower prices, making them attractive alternatives for patients and healthcare providers[1][5].
- Regional Market Dynamics: In regions like Japan, Lantus sales have decreased due to the reduction in product prices and increased competition from other insulin products. In the U.S., Lantus sales dropped by 56.7% in the fourth quarter of 2022 due to formulary losses and erosion of the basal insulin market[1][2].
Sales Performance
- Global Sales: Lantus sales were €429 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, down 27.6% compared to the previous year. For the full year 2022, Lantus sales were €2,259 million, a decline of 14.4%[2].
- Regional Breakdown: In the U.S., Lantus sales were significantly impacted, with a 56.7% decrease in the fourth quarter of 2022. In the Rest of the World region, sales were down 7.7%, reflecting the impact of the insulin Volume-Based Procurement (VBP) in China[2].
Market Projections
Despite the current challenges, the overall insulin glargine market is expected to grow:
- Global Market Growth: The global insulin glargine market is projected to reach USD 2.2 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.11% from 2023 to 2031[1].
- Alternative Projections: Another estimate suggests the market could reach USD 8.43 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 6.4% from 2024 to 2031. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of diabetes and the introduction of affordable biosimilar products[3].
Drivers and Restraints
Drivers
- Increasing Prevalence of Diabetes: The global rise in diabetes cases, largely due to sedentary lifestyles and other lifestyle factors, is a significant driver for the insulin glargine market[1][3][4].
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in drug delivery devices such as wearable and smart insulin pens and pumps are expected to support market growth[3].
- Affordable Biosimilars: The availability of biosimilar insulin glargine products at lower prices is boosting market volume[3].
Restraints
- Stringent Regulations: The approval process for insulin products is stringent, which may slightly hamper market growth during the forecast period[3].
- Competition from Generics: The growing preference for oral anti-diabetics and the increasing competition from generic and biosimilar insulin products are major restraints for Lantus sales[1][5].
Regional Market Analysis
North America
- North America dominates the global insulin glargine market, with the U.S. being a crucial market for insulin sales. However, the region is also seeing a decline in Lantus sales due to formulary losses and competition from biosimilars[1][4].
Europe
- Europe is the fastest-growing market for insulin glargine. Eli Lilly's Basaglar, a biosimilar of Lantus, has received approvals in several European markets, contributing to the growth in this region[1].
Asia-Pacific
- In the Asia-Pacific region, countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and India are significant contributors. However, Japan faces challenges such as slow economic growth and an aging population, which affect the market dynamics. China is witnessing an increase in generic drug manufacturers, which impacts the sales of branded products like Lantus[1].
Competitive Landscape
The insulin glargine market is highly competitive, with several key players:
- Sanofi: The original developer of Lantus, Sanofi continues to face competition from its own extended version, Toujeo, as well as from biosimilars[1][2][5].
- Eli Lilly: With the launch of Basaglar, Eli Lilly has significantly impacted the market share of Lantus[1][5].
- Other Players: Biocon, with its biosimilar glargine approved in Japan, and other generic manufacturers in China, are also contributing to the competitive landscape[1].
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: Despite challenges, the global insulin glargine market is expected to grow, driven by increasing diabetes prevalence and technological advancements.
- Competition: Lantus faces significant competition from biosimilars and generics, leading to declining sales.
- Regional Dynamics: North America and Europe are key markets, with Asia-Pacific showing mixed trends due to regional challenges.
- Technological Innovations: Advances in drug delivery devices will support market growth.
FAQs
Q: What is the current market size of the global insulin glargine market?
A: The global insulin glargine market was valued at USD 1.29 billion in 2022[1].
Q: Why are Lantus sales declining?
A: Lantus sales are declining due to the presence of biosimilars like Basaglar and Toujeo, formulary losses, and erosion of the basal insulin market[1][2][5].
Q: What is the projected growth rate of the insulin glargine market?
A: The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.11% from 2023 to 2031[1].
Q: Which regions are the largest and fastest-growing markets for insulin glargine?
A: North America is the largest market, while Europe is the fastest-growing region[1].
Q: How do technological advancements impact the insulin glargine market?
A: Technological advancements in drug delivery devices such as wearable and smart insulin pens and pumps are expected to support market growth[3].
Sources
- Straits Research: Insulin Glargine Market Size to Reach 2200 Million by 2031[1].
- Sanofi: Strong sales performance and double digit EPS growth marking the end of 2022[2].
- Coherent Market Insights: Insulin Glargine Market Size and Trends[3].
- Mordor Intelligence: Insulin Glargine Market - Size & Share[4].
- Business Wire: Basal Insulin (Long-Acting Insulin) - Market Projections to 2024 with Company Profiles, Share Analysis[5].
