Gabapentin Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Prevalence of Neuropathic Pain – Gabapentin is largely used to cure neuropathic pain which is caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. The incidence of neuropathic pain all across the globe is growing with various factors such as the growing geriatric population, high prevalence of chronic disease, and increasing awareness of the situation. As per the estimates, the prevalence of neuropathic pain in the general population is around 7% to 10%, expected to grow to around 20% to 30% in people with diabetes in U.K.

•  Increasing Application in Off-label Indication – Besides treating neuropathic and chronic pain, gabapentin is also used in treating off-label indications such as anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and others. 
• Availability of Generic Versions – The generic version of gabapentin has become easily accessible in recent times, and this has made the medication more affordable and attainable for patients.
•  Supportive Reimbursement Policies – In many countries, healthcare authorities and government initiatives have offered supportive reimbursement policies that have covered gabapentin which makes the medication more affordable and accessible to patients. 
• Increasing Awareness about Gabapentin – Patients and healthcare professionals are becoming more educated about gabapentin as a viable therapy option as more clinical evidence points to the drug's effectiveness for some conditions.
• Development of New Formulations – In recent times, new formulations have been developed in the gabapentin domain which enhances efficacy and is easy to use. 

Challenges 

• Side Effects of Gabapentin – Gabapentin medication gives relief but it also has a few side effects associated with it such as drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. Besides this, a few serious and harmful side effects are also associated with this medication such as suicidal thoughts, or abnormal behavior. These side effects might pose a limitation on the growth of the market in the upcoming times. 

• Availability of Alternative Treatments
• Patent Expiration