Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological movement disorder that mainly affects the legs and causes unpleasant sensations in them along with an irresistible urge to move the legs. It is a relatively common disorder however, remains under diagnosed predominantly due to lack of awareness. Common symptoms of RLS include unpleasant creeping, crawling, tingling or burning sensations in the legs or arms which usually worsen during periods of inactivity or at night and are temporarily relieved by movement. RLS poses a significant burden on patients as it disrupts their normal sleep-wake cycle and quality of life. Currently available pharmacotherapies against RLS include dopamine agonists, anticonvulsants, opioid agonists and others which provide temporary relief however, often lead to serious side effects with time. Recently developed neuromodulation therapies using devices such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) target the origins of symptoms more directly and effectively manage RLS over long term with reduced side effects.
The restless legs syndrome treatment market is estimated to be valued at USD 2.5 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.64 Bn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the restless legs syndrome treatment market are GlaxoSmithKline plc, Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc. and others. These players are involved in developing advanced neuromodulation devices and novel pharmacological therapies for effective long term RLS management.
Increasing awareness about Restless Legs Syndrome Market as a treatable medical condition is opening up new opportunities for market players. Launching mass education and screening programs can help diagnose many unknown cases at an early stage.
Development of spinal cord stimulation devices which can be implanted minimally invasively and controlled via mobile apps is an emerging technological advancement. New drug delivery systems like microneedle patches can improve patient compliance for pharmacological treatments.
Market Drivers
Growing geriatric population worldwide susceptible to develop RLS due to aging is a key market driver. According to WHO, number of people aged 60 years and older is projected to double from 12% to 22% between 2015 and 2050. Neurodegenerative changes and iron deficiencies also increase with age which are contributory factors for RLS.
Inadequate management of RLS symptoms often leads to worsening of comorbid conditions like insomnia, depression and cardiovascular diseases over time necessitating effective long term therapy options. This is boosting demand for newly developed neuromodulation devices and therapies.
Current Challenges in Restless Legs Syndrome Treatment Market
The Restless Legs Syndrome treatment market is facing several challenges currently. Diagnosis of RLS is difficult as its symptoms are similar to other conditions. Lack of definitive diagnostic tests makes the process challenging. Further, the exact cause of RLS is still unknown which limits development of highly effective disease-modifying drugs. Currently available treatment options only provide symptomatic relief and do not cure the condition. This leads to patient non-compliance over long term use. Additionally, low awareness about RLS among general public as well as healthcare professionals results in underdiagnosis of the syndrome. All these factors pose significant difficulties for growth of this market.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: Availability of newer pharmacological treatment options with improved efficacy and safety profile. Weakness: Absence of drugs that can modify disease progression. Difficulty in definitive diagnosis of RLS.
Opportunity: Rising adoption of personalized medication and combination drug therapy. Scope for development of novel biological drugs. Threats: Patent expiries of major drugs. Strong pipeline of generics can erode prices of branded offerings.
Europe currently accounts for the largest share of the global RLS treatment market, both in terms of value and volume. Higher awareness levels, developed healthcare infrastructure and growing geriatric population driving the European market. On the other hand, Asia Pacific region is poised to witness fastest growth over the coming years. This can be attributed to rising incomes, expansion of healthcare systems and increasing focus of international drug makers on emerging Asian countries.
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Author Bio:
Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.
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