Global Anti Infectives Market By Product Type (Antibacterials (Penicillin, Macrolides, Fluoroquinolones, Cephalosporins, Carbapenem, and Others), Antivirals, Antifungals (Polyenes, Echinocandins, Azoles, and Others)), By Route of Administration (Topical, Parenteral, Oral, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Others), Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2033

Report Overview

Global Anti Infectives Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 154.5 billion by 2034 from US$ 133.1 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 1.5% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034. In 2024, North America led the market, achieving over 39.1% share with a revenue of US$ 52.0 Billion.

Increasing cases of drug-resistant infections and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases are significantly driving the growth of the anti-infectives market. The need for effective treatments against bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections continues to grow, pushing demand for new and innovative anti-infective drugs.

Key areas of focus include the development of antibiotics for resistant bacteria, antiviral drugs for emerging diseases, and antifungal therapies. Anti-infectives play a critical role in preventing and treating infections, especially in hospital settings and for immunocompromised patients. The market also benefits from advancements in biotechnology and the increasing awareness of the importance of combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

In January 2024, Basilea Pharmaceutica acquired Spexis AG’s preclinical antibiotics program, targeting drug-resistant bacteria. The novel antibiotics show promising results against strains like E. coli and K. pneumoniae, enhancing Basilea’s portfolio and supporting the fight against antimicrobial resistance. This acquisition highlights the growing focus on developing targeted, effective solutions to combat some of the most challenging pathogens in healthcare.

Key Takeaways

• In 2024, the market for anti infectives generated a revenue of US$ 133.1 billion, with a CAGR of 1.5%, and is expected to reach US$ 154.5 billion by the year 2033.
• The product type segment is divided into antibacterials, antivirals, and antifungals, with antivirals taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 53.5%.
• Considering route of administration, the market is divided into topical, parenteral, oral, and others. Among these, oral held a significant share of 58.7%.
• Furthermore, concerning the distribution channel segment, the market is segregated into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and others. The hospital pharmacies sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 61.2% in the anti infectives market.
• North America led the market by securing a market share of 39.1% in 2023.

Product Type Analysis

The antivirals segment led in 2024, claiming a market share of 53.5% owing to the increasing prevalence of viral infections globally. The rise in viral diseases, including HIV, influenza, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, is likely to drive the demand for antiviral treatments. Technological advancements in antiviral drug development and the growing understanding of viral resistance mechanisms are anticipated to further fuel this growth.

Additionally, the continuous need for effective treatments for emerging viral threats, coupled with a rising focus on preventing viral outbreaks, will likely contribute to the sustained expansion of the antivirals segment within the anti-infectives market.

Route of Administration Analysis

The oral held a significant share of 58.7% due to the convenience and ease of administration associated with oral medications. Oral formulations are expected to remain the preferred choice for both patients and healthcare providers due to their patient-friendly nature and ability to be self-administered at home.

The continued development of effective oral antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals is likely to propel this segment, especially as the demand for outpatient treatments increases. Additionally, the growing prevalence of chronic infectious diseases that require long-term oral treatment will further support the expansion of the oral route of administration.

Distribution Channel Analysis

The hospital pharmacies segment had a tremendous growth rate, with a revenue share of 61.2% as the demand for specialized anti-infective treatments increases in clinical settings. Hospital pharmacies play a critical role in dispensing prescription medications, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, to treat a wide range of infections.

The increasing number of hospitalizations related to infectious diseases, along with the focus on providing effective, targeted therapies for patients, is expected to drive the growth of this segment. Moreover, the rise in hospital-based surgical procedures and post-surgical infections will likely contribute to the demand for specialized anti-infectives dispensed through hospital pharmacies.

Key Market Segments

Product Type

• Antibacterials
  • Penicillin
  • Macrolides
  • Fluoroquinolones
  • Cephalosporins
  • Carbapenem
  • Others
• Antivirals
• Antifungals
  • Polyenes
  • Echinocandins
  • Azoles
  • Others

Route of Administration

• Topical
• Parenteral
• Oral
• Others

Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Others

Drivers

Rising Global Burden of Infectious Diseases is driving the market

The increasing prevalence and incidence of various infectious diseases across the globe is a significant driver for the anti-infectives market. Factors such as population growth, increased international travel and trade, climate change, and urbanization contribute to the spread of both existing and emerging infectious agents. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2024 that lower respiratory infections remained a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for an estimated 2.5 million deaths in 2022.

Furthermore, the ongoing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates the development of new and effective anti-infective drugs to combat resistant pathogens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US estimated in a 2023 report that more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the US each year, leading to over 35,000 deaths.

This continuous challenge posed by infectious diseases and the urgent need for effective treatments are key factors propelling the growth of the anti-infectives market. The demand for novel and broad-spectrum anti-infective agents is expected to remain high to address the evolving landscape of infectious threats.

Restraints

Stringent Regulatory Requirements and Lengthy Approval Processes are restraining the market

The development and commercialization of new anti-infective drugs are subject to stringent regulatory requirements and lengthy approval processes by authorities such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and efficacy of new drugs before they reach patients.

However, the complex and time-consuming clinical trial phases, coupled with rigorous data review processes, can significantly increase the cost and timelines associated with bringing new anti-infectives to market. According to an analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network Open in 2023, the median time from clinical trial initiation to FDA approval for new drugs was approximately 7.9 years.

For anti-infective drugs specifically, the challenges of demonstrating efficacy in the face of evolving resistance and the need for large-scale clinical trials can further extend this timeline. These hurdles can discourage pharmaceutical companies, particularly smaller ones, from investing heavily in anti-infective research and development, thereby restraining the market’s growth and potentially leading to a scarcity of novel treatment options.

Opportunities

Growing Public and Private Investment in R&D is creating growth opportunities

Increasing awareness of the threat posed by antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases has led to greater public and private investment in research and development (R&D) of novel anti-infectives. Governments and non-profit organizations are implementing initiatives to incentivize the development of new antibiotics and other anti-infective agents. For instance, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) in the US has been actively funding the development of new antimicrobials through grants and contracts.

In 2023, BARDA announced multiple funding awards totaling over US$ 300 million to support the development of innovative diagnostics and therapeutics for infectious diseases. Similarly, the European Union’s Horizon Europe program includes significant funding for research projects aimed at tackling AMR. This increased financial support, coupled with collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and government agencies, is creating significant growth opportunities for the anti-infectives market by fostering innovation and accelerating the development of much-needed new therapies.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

The anti-infectives market, a crucial segment of the pharmaceutical industry, is influenced by broad macroeconomic trends and geopolitical events. Economic growth generally supports healthcare spending, leading to increased demand for anti-infective drugs. However, economic downturns can strain healthcare budgets and potentially limit access to medications.

Inflation can raise the cost of raw materials and manufacturing, impacting drug prices. Geopolitical instability, such as regional conflicts or pandemics (like the recent COVID-19 pandemic), can disrupt supply chains, create surges in demand for certain anti-infectives, and influence research priorities. For instance, the pandemic highlighted the importance of broad-spectrum antivirals and spurred significant investment in vaccine and antiviral development.

Furthermore, rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern, increasing the economic burden of infections due to the need for more expensive and prolonged treatments; the OECD estimated that AMR already costs their member countries’ health systems billions of dollars annually.

The recent announcement of potential US tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, including anti-infectives, introduces significant uncertainty into the market. While the specifics are still evolving, the possibility of a 10% baseline tariff, with potential increases, could have several ramifications. Given that a substantial portion of generic anti-infectives consumed in the US are imported (with India supplying over 45% of US generics), tariffs could lead to increased drug prices for American consumers and healthcare systems.

Industry analysts warn that generic drug manufacturers, operating on thin margins, may be unable to absorb these costs. This could exacerbate existing drug shortages, particularly for essential antibiotics, and potentially strain the supply chain. While the US government aims to incentivize domestic production, shifting manufacturing for complex medications like biologics and even some generics can be a lengthy and complex process. The potential for retaliatory tariffs from other nations, such as China’s announced 84% tariffs on US goods, could further disrupt the global anti-infectives market and increase overall costs.

Latest Trends

Increasing Focus on Personalized Medicine and Diagnostics is a recent trend

A notable recent trend in the anti-infectives market is the growing focus on personalized medicine and advanced diagnostic tools. This approach aims to tailor anti-infective treatments to the specific pathogen causing the infection and the individual patient’s characteristics, thereby improving treatment outcomes and minimizing the development of antibiotic resistance. Rapid and accurate diagnostic tests that can identify the specific infectious agent and its resistance profile are becoming increasingly important.

Companies are developing innovative diagnostic platforms that can provide results within hours, enabling clinicians to make more informed treatment decisions. For example, the development of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens. Furthermore, research into host-pathogen interactions and biomarkers is paving the way for more targeted therapies.

This shift towards personalized approaches, supported by advancements in diagnostics and a deeper understanding of infectious diseases at the molecular level, represents a significant trend shaping the future of the anti-infectives market, promising more effective and sustainable treatment strategies.

Regional Analysis

North America is leading the Anti Infectives Market

North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 39.1% owing to increasing concerns about antibiotic resistance and the ongoing need to treat infectious diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in July 2024 that six bacterial antimicrobial-resistant hospital-onset infections remained elevated in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels, following a peak in 2021. This persistent challenge underscores the importance of both existing and novel anti-infective therapies.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 50 new molecular entities in 2024, including three new antibiotics: Exblifep (cefepime and enmetazobactam), Zevtera (ceftobiprole medocaril sodium), and Orlynvah (sulopenem etzadroxil and probenecid). These approvals demonstrate continued efforts to combat drug-resistant infections. Furthermore, GSK received FDA approval in March 2025 for Blujepa (gepotidacin), a new oral antibiotic for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, highlighting the sustained demand for innovative treatments.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to a high incidence of infectious diseases and the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated in 2024 that antimicrobial resistance causes over 700,000 deaths globally each year, with a significant proportion occurring in Asia.

In China, data from the China Gonococcal Resistance Surveillance Program (China-GRSP) indicated a rise in resistance to ceftriaxone, a primary treatment for gonorrhea, between 2017 and 2022. To address this, China’s National Health Commission issued guidelines in 2021 to promote the rational use of antibiotics and strengthen antimicrobial resistance surveillance.

These ongoing efforts to combat resistance, coupled with the continued prevalence of infectious diseases like tuberculosis and dengue, are expected to drive the demand for anti-infective agents in the Asia Pacific region.

Key Regions and Countries

North America

• US
• Canada

Europe

• Germany
• France
• The UK
• Spain
• Italy
• Russia
• Netherland
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Rest of APAC

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Key players in the anti-infective drugs market drive growth through technological innovation, strategic acquisitions, and expanding their global presence. They invest in developing novel therapeutics and vaccines to address various infectious diseases and improve patient outcomes. Collaborations with research institutions and healthcare providers facilitate the integration of new technologies and broaden market reach. Additionally, targeting emerging markets with increasing healthcare infrastructure and rising disease prevalence presents significant growth opportunities.

Pfizer Inc., headquartered in New York, is a leading global pharmaceutical company specializing in the development and commercialization of medicines and vaccines. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of anti-infective agents, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals.

Pfizer emphasizes research and development to deliver innovative solutions that address unmet medical needs. With a strong global presence, the company continues to expand its influence in the anti-infective drugs market through strategic partnerships and continuous innovation.

Top Key Players

• Shionogi & Co.
• Sandoz
• Basilea Pharmaceutica
• Spexis AG
• Pfizer
• Merck & Co.
• AstraZeneca
• GlaxoSmithKline

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, Shionogi & Co. announced that its novel antibiotic, cefiderocol, received NDA acceptance in China. Cefiderocol targets multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria and has shown superior efficacy in Phase III trials. It is already approved in over 10 countries and aims to improve global access to fight antimicrobial resistance.
• In March 2024, Sandoz opened a USD 53.81 million facility in Austria, boosting antibiotic production capacity by 20%. The expansion will produce 240 million antibiotic packages annually, including one billion penicillin tablets, addressing antibiotic shortages and improving access.

Report Scope