Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In March 2023: Novo Nordisk announced that the company will drop prices for vials and pens of NovoLog and other insulin brands by 75 percent beginning January 1, 2024, in the United States. The price for some other Novo Nordisk insulin brands will be lowered by 65 percent.
• In October 2022: Novo Nordisk announced headline results from the ONWARDS 5 phase 3a trial with once-weekly insulin icodec in people with type 2 diabetes. The ONWARDS 5 trial was a 52-week, open-label efficacy and safety treat-to-target trial investigating once-weekly insulin versus once-daily basal insulin (insulin degludec or insulin glargine U100/U300).

The global basal insulin market is segmented by product into Lantus, Levemir, Toujeo, Tresiba, Basaglar, and insulin glargine biosimilars. Among these, Lantus and Levemir have historically dominated the market due to their established brand presence and proven efficacy in managing blood glucose levels. However, newer formulations like Toujeo and Tresiba offer advantages such as prolonged action and reduced injection frequency, gaining traction among both healthcare providers and patients. The growing adoption of insulin glargine biosimilars is also reshaping the competitive landscape, driven by their cost-effectiveness and increasing regulatory approvals.

By application, basal insulin is used primarily for managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes patients rely on basal insulin as part of their daily regimen to regulate blood sugar levels due to their pancreas's inability to produce insulin. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes patients often require basal insulin when oral medications and other injectable therapies become insufficient. The rising prevalence of Type 2 diabetes, attributed to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy diets, is significantly contributing to market expansion.

The distribution channels for basal insulin include hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies remain the primary channel for insulin distribution, especially for newly diagnosed patients or those requiring intensive care management. Retail pharmacies continue to play a critical role due to their accessibility and wide reach. Meanwhile, online pharmacies are gaining popularity, particularly in regions with robust e-commerce infrastructure, offering convenience, home delivery, and competitive pricing, thereby expanding their share in the market.

Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe lead the market, driven by advanced healthcare systems, high diabetes prevalence, and favorable insurance coverage for insulin therapies. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by a rising diabetic population, increasing awareness, and improving healthcare infrastructure. Latin America and the Middle East and Africa regions are also emerging as significant markets, driven by rising healthcare investments and increasing demand for affordable diabetes management solutions.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Segment Analysis

In this report, the global basal insulin (long-acting insulin) market has been segmented by Product, Application, Distribution Channel and Geography.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market, Segmentation by Product

The Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market has been segmented by Product into and Basal or Long-acting Insulins.

Lantus, also known as insulin glargine, was one of the pioneering long-acting insulin analogs introduced to the market. It offers a prolonged duration of action, providing a steady release of insulin over 24 hours with minimal peak effects. This profile helps in reducing the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia and allows for once-daily dosing, enhancing patient adherence to treatment regimens.

Levemir, or insulin detemir, is another long-acting insulin analog that provides basal insulin coverage. It has a longer duration of action compared to regular insulin, allowing for flexibility in dosing schedules, which can be beneficial for patients requiring varying insulin needs throughout the day.

Toujeo is a formulation of insulin glargine that offers a higher concentration than traditional Lantus, providing more stable and prolonged insulin coverage. This formulation requires less frequent dosing compared to Lantus, potentially improving convenience and patient compliance.

Tresiba, or insulin degludec, is characterized by its ultra-long duration of action, lasting up to 42 hours. This extended duration allows for flexible dosing schedules, including once-daily or even every other day dosing in some patients. Tresiba offers a lower risk of hypoglycemia and provides consistent glycemic control over an extended period.

Basaglar is a biosimilar to Lantus (insulin glargine), offering a similar efficacy and safety profile at potentially lower costs. Biosimilars like Basaglar contribute to market competition, promoting affordability and accessibility to long-acting insulin therapies for patients worldwide.

Beyond Basaglar, there are several insulin glargine biosimilars available in the market, providing additional options for patients and healthcare providers. These biosimilars undergo rigorous regulatory scrutiny to ensure they are highly similar to the reference insulin glargine in terms of efficacy, safety, and quality.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market has been segmented by Application into Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes.

The global basal insulin (long-acting insulin) market is segmented based on application, primarily focusing on two key areas: Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, patients require a consistent insulin supply to manage blood glucose levels, as their bodies cannot produce insulin. Basal insulin, known for its extended action, provides the steady support needed by these patients, helping them achieve better glycemic control and minimizing the frequency of insulin injections. This segment has shown significant demand, driven by the rising incidence of Type 1 diabetes and the need for effective, long-term insulin management.

For Type 2 diabetes, basal insulin is often prescribed to patients who have not achieved adequate glucose control with oral medications or lifestyle adjustments alone. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetic patients still produce some insulin, but the body’s response is often insufficient. Long-acting basal insulin helps these patients maintain stable glucose levels overnight and between meals, improving their overall quality of life and potentially delaying the need for more intensive treatments. The increasing prevalence of Type 2 diabetes worldwide has propelled growth in this segment, especially as awareness about the benefits of basal insulin expands.

Both segments are expected to continue experiencing growth due to the global increase in diabetes cases and advancements in insulin formulations that enhance efficacy and patient comfort. Innovations in insulin delivery systems and the development of biosimilar products are further supporting market expansion, as they provide more options for patients and reduce treatment costs. In addition, healthcare providers are recognizing the importance of individualized diabetes management, which has led to a more tailored approach to basal insulin therapy for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients, contributing to the market's dynamic growth trajectory.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Online Pharmacies.

The global basal insulin market, focusing on long-acting insulin products, is segmented by distribution channels into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies play a critical role in this market, as they cater primarily to inpatients and outpatients managing diabetes under medical supervision. These pharmacies are preferred for their access to healthcare professionals, ensuring patients receive guidance on proper insulin usage and dosage adjustments, which is essential for maintaining glycemic control.

Retail pharmacies are another significant distribution channel, providing patients with easier access to basal insulin products. They are often the first point of contact for individuals managing their diabetes independently, offering convenience and accessibility. Retail pharmacies also support patients with essential services such as prescription refills, medication counseling, and glucose monitoring supplies, which contribute to their strong presence in the basal insulin market.

Online pharmacies have emerged as a growing segment, driven by increasing internet penetration and the convenience of home delivery. This channel is particularly beneficial for patients seeking cost-effective solutions and those who require regular refills without the need for frequent pharmacy visits. The rising popularity of telemedicine and digital healthcare services further enhances the relevance of online pharmacies, making them a competitive distribution channel in the basal insulin market.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America, particularly the United States, dominates the global basal insulin market due to a high prevalence of diabetes and robust healthcare infrastructure. The region is characterized by extensive research and development activities, technological advancements in insulin therapies, and a large patient population requiring long-acting insulin treatments. Stringent regulatory standards ensure quality and safety in product approvals, driving market growth.

Europe represents another major market for basal insulin, supported by increasing diabetes prevalence and advancements in healthcare access. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France lead in insulin therapy adoption, with a focus on personalized medicine and innovative treatment options. The region's regulatory framework emphasizes patient safety and efficacy, fostering a competitive landscape for insulin manufacturers.

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth in the basal insulin market, driven by rising incidence of diabetes, aging populations, and expanding healthcare infrastructure. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are pivotal markets, characterized by increasing healthcare expenditures, improving diabetes management practices, and growing adoption of advanced insulin therapies. Government initiatives to address diabetes prevalence further stimulate market expansion in the region.

Latin America exhibits growing demand for basal insulin therapies, fueled by rising diabetes prevalence and improving healthcare access in countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Market growth is supported by healthcare reforms, increasing awareness about diabetes management, and collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers to enhance treatment outcomes.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Rising prevalence of diabetes
• Increasing adoption of insulin therapy
• Technological advancements in insulin analogs

• Aging population contributing to diabetes incidence - The aging population is significantly contributing to the rising incidence of diabetes globally, reshaping healthcare priorities and emphasizing the need for effective disease management strategies. As individuals age, they become more susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes due to several interconnected factors.

  Aging is associated with physiological changes that affect glucose metabolism. Cells may become less responsive to insulin, leading to insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. This resistance necessitates higher insulin production by the pancreas to maintain normal blood sugar levels, eventually straining the pancreas and potentially leading to diabetes.

  Lifestyle factors such as sedentary behavior and poor diet often become more prevalent with age, exacerbating the risk of developing diabetes. Reduced physical activity and increased body weight are common among older adults, further contributing to insulin resistance and the onset of diabetes.

  Aging is frequently accompanied by comorbidities such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, which are all interconnected with diabetes. These conditions can create a complex web of health challenges, requiring comprehensive management strategies to mitigate the risk of diabetes complications.

Restraints:

• High cost of insulin therapy
• Regulatory challenges in approval processes
• Limited access to healthcare in some regions

• Concerns over hypoglycemia and weight gain - Concerns over hypoglycemia and weight gain are significant considerations in the management of diabetes, particularly for individuals using insulin therapies, including basal insulins.

  Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, is a critical concern associated with insulin therapy. It occurs when blood glucose levels drop below normal levels (typically below 70 mg/dL), leading to symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, dizziness, sweating, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures. Hypoglycemia can occur when insulin doses are too high relative to food intake or physical activity, or when there are delays or omissions in meals or snacks. Elderly patients and those with impaired kidney function are particularly vulnerable to hypoglycemia. Fear of hypoglycemia can also lead to patients intentionally running higher blood glucose levels, which can have negative long-term health consequences.

  Weight gain is another common concern associated with insulin therapy, including basal insulins. Insulin promotes glucose uptake into cells, which can lead to increased fat storage and weight gain, especially if insulin doses are not optimized or if there are concurrent lifestyle factors such as overeating or reduced physical activity. Weight gain can exacerbate insulin resistance and complicate diabetes management efforts, potentially leading to higher insulin requirements over time.

  Healthcare providers strive to create personalized treatment plans that balance blood glucose control with minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. This may involve adjusting insulin doses based on lifestyle factors, monitoring blood glucose levels regularly, and educating patients on recognizing and managing hypoglycemia.

  CGM systems provide real-time glucose readings, allowing patients and healthcare providers to monitor trends and make timely adjustments to insulin therapy. This technology helps reduce the incidence of hypoglycemia by providing early warnings of impending low blood sugar levels.

  Advances in insulin delivery systems, such as insulin pens and insulin pumps, offer options for precise insulin administration, which can help minimize fluctuations in blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

Opportunities:

• High cost of insulin therapy
• Regulatory challenges in approval processes
• Limited access to healthcare in some regions

• Concerns over hypoglycemia and weight gain - Concerns over hypoglycemia and weight gain are critical considerations in the management of diabetes, particularly among individuals who require insulin therapy, including basal insulins.

  Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels drop below normal (typically below 70 mg/dL), leading to symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, sweating, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures. It is a common side effect of insulin therapy, especially if insulin doses are too high relative to food intake or physical activity levels. Fear of hypoglycemia can lead individuals to avoid insulin doses or reduce carbohydrate intake, which can worsen diabetes control over time. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and educating patients on recognizing and managing hypoglycemia are crucial to minimizing its occurrence.

  Weight gain can occur with insulin therapy due to its role in promoting glucose uptake into cells, which can lead to increased fat storage. This weight gain is more likely if insulin doses are not carefully adjusted or if individuals consume excess calories without adjusting their insulin regimen. Weight gain can exacerbate insulin resistance and complicate diabetes management efforts. Encouraging a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and considering insulin formulations that may have a lower propensity for weight gain are strategies to mitigate this risk.

  Managing diabetes with insulin therapy involves a delicate balance between achieving optimal blood glucose control while minimizing the risks of hypoglycemia and weight gain. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about these risks, optimizing insulin dosing based on individual needs, and providing ongoing support to help patients achieve and maintain their treatment goals.

Key players in Global Basal Insulin (Long-acting Insulin) Market include:

• Novo Nordisk
• Sanofi
• Eli Lilly
• Biocon
• Julphar

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis