Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Stress, Urge, Overflow, Functional Incontinence), By Drug Class, By Gender, By Distribution Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The global urinary incontinence therapeutics market size was estimated at USD 4.37 billion in 2023 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2024 to 2030 due to the increasing prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among aging populations and the rising awareness about available treatments. According to a May 2023 report by Dovepress, the prevalence of female UI was found to be 24.8%, with stress UI being the most common subtype at 12.7%, followed by mixed UI at 8.0%, and urgency UI at 4.1%. The study highlighted that the prevalence of UI increased progressively with age and body mass index (BMI).

This market includes a variety of medications such as anticholinergics, beta-3 adrenergic agonists, and topical estrogens. These drugs help manage symptoms by reducing bladder contractions, increasing bladder capacity, and strengthening urethral and vaginal tissues. Market players are continuously investing in research and development to introduce more effective and safer treatments, which is propelling market growth.

The aging population is majorly driving the growth of this market. As global life expectancy increases, the number of elderly individuals is rising, leading to a higher prevalence of age-related conditions, including UI. Older adults often experience bladder control issues due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, decreased bladder capacity, and other health conditions that impact urinary function. This demographic shift significantly contributes to the growing demand for therapeutic solutions to manage and alleviate these symptoms.

Globally, the number of people aged 60 and older is projected to double from 1 billion in 2020 to 2.1 billion by 2050. As the population ages, the burden of UI and other geriatric syndromes like falls and delirium is expected to grow. This increase necessitates more effective and accessible treatments, driving research and development in this sector. Consequently, healthcare providers are focusing on improving the quality of life for older adults through better management of UI. As a result, the market is expanding, with companies investing in innovative treatments to meet the needs of this growing patient population.

In addition, advancements in drug development are significantly contributing to the growth of this market. Researchers and pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing new drugs with better efficacy, fewer side effects, and improved delivery methods. Innovations such as extended-release formulations and combination therapies are enhancing patient compliance and treatment outcomes. For instance, in April 2024, Lupin Ltd introduced Mirabegron, a generic alternative to Mybetriq, aimed at managing overactive bladder in the U.S. Additionally, the exploration of novel drug targets and mechanisms of action is leading to the introduction of more effective therapies. These advancements not only improve the quality of life for patients but also drive market expansion by offering superior treatment options.

Furthermore, there has been a notable increase in awareness and diagnosis of urinary incontinence in recent years. Health campaigns and educational programs by healthcare organizations and pharmaceutical companies have played a crucial role in reducing the stigma associated with this condition and encouraging individuals to seek medical advice. Improved diagnostic tools and methods have also made it easier for healthcare providers to identify and classify different types of urinary incontinence, leading to more personalized and effective treatment plans. This heightened awareness and better diagnostic capabilities are expanding the patient base for UI therapeutics.

Type Insights

The stress incontinence segment held the largest share of 30.03% in 2023. Key drivers include the increasing elderly population and the prevalence of stress incontinence among pregnant and postpartum women. For instance, according to the Cleveland Clinic, stress incontinence is the most prevalent type of UI. It primarily affects individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB). Up to one in three people AFAB will experience stress UI at some point in their lives. Aging leads to weakened pelvic floor muscles, heightening the risk of stress incontinence. According to an August 2023 NIH report, stress urinary incontinence affects 24% to 45% of women over the age of 30. Pregnancy and childbirth also strain pelvic structures, contributing to this condition. Awareness and diagnosis improvements, coupled with advancements in therapeutic options, further boost market expansion. Consequently, there is a rising demand for effective treatments to manage stress incontinence in these demographics.

The urge incontinence segment is projected to grow fastest in the coming years. Key drivers include the increasing elderly population and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity. Aging leads to overactive bladder muscles, heightening the risk of urge incontinence.According to a NIH report from August 2023, urge UI affects 9% of women aged 40 to 44 years, 31% of women over 75 years, and 42% of men over 75 years. Additionally, lifestyle habits like caffeine and alcohol consumption can exacerbate symptoms. Improved awareness and diagnosis, coupled with advancements in therapeutic options, are further fueling market expansion. Consequently, there is a rising demand for effective treatments to manage urge incontinence among these demographics.

Drug Class Insights

The anticholinergics segment held the largest share of 33.34% in 2023. This growth is driven by their effectiveness in reducing bladder contractions, a key symptom in various types of UI. Clinical trials continue to demonstrate their efficacy and safety, encouraging their adoption as a primary treatment option. Ongoing research and development efforts aim to improve drug formulations and minimize side effects, enhancing patient compliance. As awareness increases and healthcare providers prioritize symptom management, the demand for anticholinergics in treating UI is expected to further expand.

The beta-3 adrenoceptor agonists segment is growing at a fastest CAGR over the forecast year.According to a report published in March 2022, beta-3 agonists have shown promising results in improving urodynamic parameters and self-reported outcomes related to incontinence. These medications work by relaxing the bladder muscles, thereby increasing bladder capacity and reducing the frequency of involuntary contractions that lead to urinary leakage. The positive clinical findings are driving increased adoption by healthcare providers seeking effective and well-tolerated treatments for patients with urinary incontinence. As research continues to validate their efficacy and safety profiles, the beta-3 agonists segment is poised for continued expansion.

Gender Insights

The female segment dominated the market in 2023 and is growing at a CAGR of 4.1% over the forecast year, largely influenced by high prevalence rate in women. As women age, physiological changes such as weakening pelvic floor muscles and decreased estrogen levels contribute to an increased incidence of UI. According to a 2021 analysis of nationally representative NHANES data, 62% of adult women living in the community in the U.S. are affected by UI, and 32% experience UI at least once a month.

These factors heighten the demand for effective therapeutic solutions tailored to address the specific needs of older women. Moreover, advancements in diagnostic techniques and greater awareness among healthcare providers are further driving market expansion. The focus on improving quality of life through targeted treatments underscores the growing importance of addressing urinary incontinence in the female population.

The men segment is experiencing growth influenced by various factors. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, obesity, and sedentary habits contribute to an increased incidence of UI. According to a report from August 2022, urinary incontinence affects older men aged 65 and above, with prevalence rates ranging from 11% to 34%, and daily incontinence rates ranging from 2% to 11%.

Neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injuries can disrupt bladder control, exacerbating the condition. Additionally, pelvic surgeries, particularly prostate procedures, can impact urinary function. As awareness grows and treatments improve, there is a rising demand for effective solutions tailored to address these specific causes of urinary incontinence in men, driving market expansion.

Distribution Channel Insights

The retail pharmacies segment held the largest share of 44.99% in 2023 driven by an increased awareness of treatment options for UI. As more patients seek management solutions outside hospital settings, retail pharmacies play a crucial role in providing access to medications and supplies. Investments in expanding product offerings and patient education contribute to this growth. Retail pharmacies also benefit from partnerships with healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes and enhance customer satisfaction, further solidifying their position in the urinary incontinence therapeutic market. 

The online pharmacies segment is growing at a fastest CAGR over the forecast year, due to their convenience, cost-effectiveness, and technological advancements. Patients find it easier to access a wide range of medications and supplies online, saving time and money compared to traditional pharmacies. Technological advancements, such as telemedicine consultations and automated prescription refills, further enhance the user experience. The increasing preference for online shopping and the ability to compare prices and read reviews contribute to the expanding market share of online pharmacies in meeting the needs of urinary incontinence patients.

Regional Insights

North America urinary incontinence therapeutics market dominated the overall global market and accounted for the 40.39% of revenue share in 2023, fueled by increased prevalence and a robust healthcare ecosystem. Market players are actively engaged in developing new treatments and improving existing therapies to address the diverse needs of patients. Regulatory bodies like the FDA in the U.S. ensure rigorous evaluation of safety and efficacy before approving new products for market entry. For instance, in December 2020, Urovant Sciences received approval from the U.S. FDA for GEMTESA (vibegron) 75 mg Tablets to treat adults with overactive bladder (OAB). GEMTESA, a beta-3 adrenergic receptor (β3) agonist, is indicated for managing symptoms such as urge urinary incontinence (UUI), urgency, and frequent urination associated with OAB. Key players in the region include pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers, driving competition and spurring advancements in therapeutic options for managing urinary incontinence.

U.S. Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Trends

The urinary incontinence therapeutics market of the U.S. held a significant share of North America market in 2023, due to the high prevalence of urinary incontinence, affecting millions of adults. According to an April 2022 report, approximately 22.1% of adult women in the U.S. experience moderate or more severe urinary incontinence, totaling around 28,454,778 individuals. This growth is driven by advancements in treatment options and increasing awareness among healthcare providers and patients.

Europe Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Trends

Europe urinary incontinence therapeutics market is experiencing significant growth through research and development efforts focused on addressing the prevalence of urinary incontinence, particularly in countries like the UK, Sweden, and Germany.According to a report from April 2024, urinary incontinence affects over 3 million individuals in the UK. These initiatives aim to enhance treatment efficacy and patient outcomes, reflecting the growing demand for innovative solutions in managing this widespread condition across the region.

Asia Pacific Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Trends

The urinary incontinence therapeutics market of Asia Pacific is experiencing the fastest growthwith a focus on innovation, research, and technological advancements. Efforts are underway to develop and introduce advanced therapies tailored to meet the region's diverse healthcare needs. For instance, in November 2021, Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. launched BUP-4 LADY, Japan's inaugural over-the-counter medication designed for urinary incontinence. It is now available at dispensing pharmacies, non-dispensing pharmacies, and drug stores throughout Japan. Increasing investment in research and development is driving the introduction of new treatment options, aiming to improve patient outcomes and address the growing prevalence of urinary incontinence in the region.

Latin America Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Trends

Latin America urinary incontinence therapeutics market is experiencing significant growthby increased funding for research centers and pharmaceutical development. Market players are enhancing drug distribution networks across the region to improve accessibility to treatments. These initiatives aim to address the healthcare needs of a growing population affected by urinary incontinence, driving market growth and expanding treatment options in Latin American countries.

MEA Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Trends

The urinary incontinence therapeutics market of MEA is experiencing notable growthby a notable prevalence of urinary incontinence. According to a report from June 2022, urinary incontinence prevalence was estimated at 31% in East Africa, 16% in West Africa, and 35% in South Africa. Hospital-based studies indicated an estimated burden of 18%, while community-based studies reported a prevalence of 23%. As awareness and healthcare infrastructure improve, there is a growing demand for effective treatments to manage this condition. Market growth is driven by initiatives to enhance patient care and expand access to therapeutic options tailored to the unique healthcare needs of the region.

Key Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Company Insights

The market scenerio is highly competitive, with key players such as Pfizer Inc.; AbbVie Inc.; Astellas Pharma Inc.; Johnson & Johnson; Viatris Inc.; Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.; Sanofi S.A.; GlaxoSmithKline plc; Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Bayer AG; Ferring Pharmaceuticals holding significant positions. The major companies are undertaking various strategies such as new gender & services development, collaborations, acquisitions, mergers, and regional expansion for serving the unmet needs of their customers.

Recent Developments

• In March 2024, Sumitomo Pharma America announced that the FDA accepted a supplemental new drug application for vibegron. This application seeks approval for treating men with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms who are already undergoing pharmacological treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

• In April 2024, Zydus Lifesciences introduced a generic medication for overactive bladder in the US, addressing symptoms such as urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency. The drug will be produced at Zydus group's formulation manufacturing facility located in India.

• In November 2023, Versameb AG, a pre-clinical stage company specializing in advancing RNA therapeutics for unmet medical needs, disclosed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for VMB-100. This mRNA, which encodes human insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) with enhanced potency, is intended for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Report Scope

Global Urinary Incontinence Therapeutics Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis on the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global urinary incontinence therapeutics market report based on type, gender, distribution channel, drug class, and region.

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2018 - 2030)

  • Stress Incontinence

  • Urge Incontinence

  • Overflow Incontinence

  • Functional Incontinence

  • Other Types

• Drug Class Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2018 - 2030)

  • Anticholinergics

  • Beta-3 Adrenoceptor Agonists

  • Alpha Blockers

  • Estrogen

  • Desmopressin

  • Tricyclic Antidepressants

  • Other Drug Classes

• Gender Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2018 - 2030)

  • Male

  • Female

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospital Pharmacies

  • Retail Pharmacies

  • Online Pharmacies

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Norway

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait