The global unit dose manufacturing industry has been projected to reach USD 32.5 billion by 2024 and USD 193.3 billion by 2034. Based on various projections, the market between 2024 and 2034 is expected to expand at a 19.5% CAGR. Revenue from the unit dose manufacturing industry in 2023 was USD 27.2 billion.
3D printing technology has allowed researchers to make polypills, which contain multiple medications in one pill. This will lead to patients taking fewer pills but still having access to the combination medicines they need.
Based on the type of medication administered, 3D-printed dosage forms can incorporate instant, delayed, or prolonged release profiles. The intended therapeutic effect can therefore be achieved by optimizing drug distribution.
Unit Dose Manufacturing Industry Assessment
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Historical Size, 2023 | USD 27.2 billion |
| Estimated Size, 2024 | USD 32.5 billion |
| Projected Size, 2034 | USD 193.3 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 19.5% |
By layering manufacturing techniques, 3D printing can produce customized dosage forms. Patients, particularly those aged 65 and under, can benefit from improved adherence and acceptance of treatments. With 3D printing, customized medications can be fabricated quickly in comparison to conventional manufacturing methods.
The lead time for treatments can be greatly reduced, and patients can access customized treatments more quickly. Small, easy-to-use 3D printers are ideal for treating patients in healthcare facilities. The community benefits from easier access to customized medications, and simplified supply chains.
Pharma manufacturers are expected to use customized medication to make a major contribution to the future of pharmaceuticals. Genomes and diagnostics have made it possible to create new medication formulations that use individualized dosing and diagnostic tools. With individualized therapies in mind, precision medicine aims to tailor therapies to a patient's specific needs.
Continuous manufacturing is a new trend in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Continuous manufacturing (CM) involves a flow of material that is subject to time-invariant unit activities rather than batch production. The use of this method allows for greater flexibility and faster development of new processes.
Shifts in pharmaceutical industry research and manufacturing technology have accelerated advances in packaging and delivery systems. The development of new materials science techniques will lead to virtually barrier-free coatings and cleaner elastomeric compositions.
Studies comparing automated unit dosage dispensing systems (UDDS) and conventional ward stock systems improved medication administration errors (MAEs) for patients. Patient-specific medication distribution through automated UDDS is extremely accurate. Using automated processes can reduce the risk of human error in drug packaging and labeling.
Production of unit doses can be automated to streamline processes and increase productivity. Organizing therapies and storing pharmaceuticals centrally lets nurses and other healthcare workers spend more time on patient care. Patients are likely to have more positive outcomes and receive better healthcare.
The use of patient-specific automated medication systems (psAMS) can be an effective alternative to other automated medication systems. The long-run benefits of automating a process can outweigh the costs of initial investment and operations in the short run.
Following is a table depicting the predicted CAGR for unit dose manufacturing over several semi-annual periods between 2024 and 2034. A CAGR of 20.7 % is projected for the first half (H1) from 2023 to 2033, with a slightly slower 20.1% CAGR in the second half (H2).
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 20.7% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 20.1% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 19.5% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 19.1% (2024 to 2034) |
In the first half of 2024, the annual CAGR is projected to reach 19.5% but then drop to 19.1% in the second half of 2034.
Growth Factors Influencing the Unit Dose Manufacturing Market
Unit dose manufacturing is becoming increasingly popular in the pharmaceutical industry. The requirement for improved patient safety and adherence to medication is of paramount importance.
With the advent of digital technologies, supply chain management, and inventory control are also changing. With the advent of blockchain technology, the supply chain is becoming more transparent and secure. Smart packaging and microdosing are new developments in high-precision dosing technology, which enhances medication effectiveness.
Medication distribution and inventory management are also driving factors behind unit dose production. Using unit dosages makes distribution easier and eliminates repackaging at healthcare facilities and human counting. This method also reduces the risk of cross-contamination, which in turn saves time and is more efficient. Packaging unit dosages also improve inventory control since each dose is labeled and recorded with its unique identifier.
Manage medicine inventories more effectively and ensure patients have access to medications can reduce waste and costs in hospitals. Professionals in the healthcare sector are motivated primarily by medication adherence, patient safety, and operational efficiency to produce unit dosages.
Sustainable Packaging and Technologies Contribute to a Growing Trend
Significant breakthroughs in unit dose manufacturing are being driven by automation and technological integration. Robotics are increasingly being used to sort, pack, and label items precisely in the past few years. This improves accuracy and efficiency at the same time.
Artificial intelligence can automate quality control and perform predictive maintenance in real time through the Internet of Things and smart sensors. Combining these technologies ensures product quality, minimizes errors, and streamlines production.
Personalized medicine is also evolving in response to the growing demand for drugs tailored to each patient's specific needs. The use of unit dose packaging facilitates the safe and convenient administration of individual doses of prescription medications.
A great deal of attention is also being paid to sustainability, as packaging materials and procedures are environmentally friendly. Environmentally friendly packaging options that are recyclable and biodegradable demonstrate the product's commitment.
Affordable Solutions and Regulatory Approvals Provide Lucrative Opportunities
The demand for affordable and accessible unit dose solutions, combined with an expanding healthcare infrastructure, has created lucrative opportunities. Increasing demand for home healthcare services will create a market for convenient packaging for unit doses, leading to a growth in the market.
Unit dose container regulations may be interpreted differently based on labeling requirements. The FDA released a Compliance Policy Guide (CPG) to offer guidance on unit dose labeling requirements to address this issue. Oral solid and liquid dosage forms are labeled by CPG and a distinction is made between "Unit of Use" and "Unit Dose Packaging."
A unit dosage system ensures that the manufacturing process is uniform and standardized. The use of premeasured unit dosages reduces rework and modification needs by ensuring consistency across batches or products. Unit dosage can be a time-saving tool in industrial operations.
To save preparation time and increase production efficiency, pre-packaged unit doses eliminate the need to measure or weigh ingredients manually. With unit dosage, resources are used to their full potential by utilizing appropriate amounts for every dose and product. Reducing resource waste and overuse can increase productivity and reduce costs.
Restraints Faced by Unit Dose Manufacturing Industry
Unit dose manufacturing may entail significant initial expenditures, including the purchase of specialized machinery and packaging supplies. In contrast to bulk packaging, individual packaging for each dosage may result in higher costs for production and packaging.
Unit dose packaging can create more packaging waste than bulk packaging, despite reducing drug errors and increasing patient safety. The stability of unit-dose formulations is a concern due to possible contamination and expiration.
Unit dosage products have to meet strict regulatory criteria to ensure the highest quality and safety for the consumer. Regulation compliance, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality control standards, requires additional expertise and resources.
Keeping up with demand can be challenging when scaling up unit dose manufacturing procedures. Managing higher quantities effectively requires manufacturers to ensure their supply chains, machines, and manufacturing sites are ready for higher volumes.
A CAGR of 18.3% was accumulated in the unit dose manufacturing industry between 2019 and 2023. Unit dose manufacturing revenue reached USD 27.2 billion in 2023, an increase from USD 9.9 billion in 2019.
Hospitals are expected to continue to undergo a great deal of change over the next several years. It is anticipated that standardization, modularity, and redesign of existing procedures will be a trend in the near future. Hospitals tend to move outside cities as development opportunities increase with the growth of larger, highly specialized competence centers.
With the advent of technologies such as 3D printing and artificial intelligence, unit-dose goods are becoming more customized and personalized. Using machine learning algorithms includes creating custom dosages and packaging based on customer requirements. It is becoming increasingly common to conduct decentralized clinical trials as the patient-centric drug delivery movement gains popularity.
Through the use of digital technology, clinical trials can be conducted remotely and patient participation and adherence can be increased. The patient-centric approach to medicine requires better management and sharing of data and information to meet patients' needs.
Manufacturers of unit doses can improve user convenience, safety, shelf life, and contamination prevention with advanced materials and packaging designs.
Tier 1 companies lead the global business environment, holding a share of 69.2%. These companies are well-positioned in the industry with a global presence, a wide range of services, and a high level of production capacity. This area is highly competitive, and Tier 1 companies will excel due to their advanced technological capabilities.
As a global leader in pharmaceutical development and manufacturing, they are well-known for their unit dose packaging capabilities. With a wide array of services, they serve as a leader in drug development, delivery technologies, and supply solutions. Players include Catalent Inc. and Patheon (Thermo Fisher).
Among Tier 2 players, mid-size players hold 28.6% of the market share. Tier 2 players have strong regional presences or are specialized in specific types of services or products. They also have a high level of production capability and reliable technology.
Players offer specialized manufacturing services, including unit dose packaging. Pharma companies with a niche focus are known for focusing on complex and novel products. A number of packaging solutions and manufacturing services have been developed by them to expand the product line. Players in tier 2 include CordenPharma, Unither, and Renaissance Lakewood, LLC.
A smaller share of the business is held by Tier 3 players, who have a limited global presence in the industry. Businesses that cater to niche markets typically have lower production capacities and serve specific geographic segments.
Among their CDMO clients are companies specializing in topical and transdermal delivery of medications. The businesses are well-established in niche markets but have limited global reach. Players include Tapemark, Mikart, Medical Packaging, Inc., American Health Packaging, and Medical Packaging, Inc.
The unit dose manufacturing industries in different countries are analyzed in detail. Several regions around the world are studied to provide a comprehensive analysis of the industry, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and others.
Through 2034, Canada is expected to experience a CAGR of 8.9%, followed by the United States with a 5.1% CAGR. Among all the countries in Asia Pacific, India and China are predicted to have the highest growth rates in the upcoming years.
| Countries | Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) |
|---|---|
| United States | 5.1% |
| Canada | 8.9% |
| United Kingdom | 6% |
| Germany | 5.1% |
| India | 18.7% |
| China | 16.5% |
| South Korea | 13% |
Patient-centered care and individualized healthcare are in increasing popularity in the United States. Patient participation in healthcare decisions is increasing the importance of individualized medication.
Precision medicine packing and distribution is enabled by unit dosage manufacturing, which reduces the risk of error. Since elderly people regularly require medication monitoring, unit dose packaging is also becoming more popular in the United States.
The unit dose manufacturing industry is growing because pharmaceutical safety and compliance are important. United States law requires that unit dose containers comply with the standards outlined in the United States Pharmacopeia, General Tests. Repackaged unit dose packaging should have an expiration date of six months, not exceeding 25 percent of the original bulk container expiration date.
Reducing drug waste and improving prescription adherence are factors that contribute to this increase. By providing customized dosages for each patient, unit dose packaging cuts down on medication waste. Taking medications as prescribed, patients make fewer medication errors and adhere to their treatment plans better.
The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease has contributed to the growth of the industry. Along with increasing patient compliance, unit dosage manufacture simplifies complex treatment regimens and ensures the simple packaging of multiple medications.
The pharmaceutical industry places a great deal of emphasis on unit dose manufacturing. Unit dosages account for more than 75% of oral medications administered to hospital patients in the United Kingdom. Unit dose packaging is frequently used by pharmaceutical manufacturers as a method of pre-packaging their medications.
A greater focus is being placed on improving the affordability and accessibility of medications in India. Unit dose packaging lets medication be supplied in smaller quantities, which makes it more affordable. In turn, patients living in rural areas of the country are more likely to be able to access healthcare due to these developments.
The growing middle class in India is driving a need for useful and user-friendly packaging options to meet the needs of the consumer. Providing prepackaged doses conveniently without measuring or dividing medications, unit dosage manufacture ensures accurate dosing. With growing awareness of medication safety and regulated dosages, India is becoming a nation that produces more unit dosages.
In India, the pharmaceutical industry is flourishing, influencing demand for unit dose production. Aside from supplying 50% of vaccines, the country supplies 40% of generic vaccines to the United States. As India's economy grows and initiatives are taken to boost manufacturing, unit-dose manufacturing is expected to become more popular.
A description of the industry's leading segments can be found in this section. The outsourcing segment held 68.6% of the value share in 2023. A market share of 38.6% was achieved by solid unit dose by 2023.
| Manufacturing Type | Outsourcing |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2023) | 68.6% |
A significant contributor to the growth of the unit dose manufacturing industry has been outsourcing. Outsourcing has helped companies in this sector reduce expenses, increase productivity, and focus on their core competencies.
Unit dosage manufacturing expertise may be difficult to find and retain for companies with smaller budgets. Businesses with varying production needs can take advantage of outsourcing by scaling up or down production as needed.
Outsourcing allows businesses to tap into the expertise and resources of specialized manufacturers. A manufacturer in this category can produce unit dose goods within short periods due to their infrastructure, knowledge, and resources.
Outsourcing can help businesses innovate faster, enhance production processes, and streamline operations. With this initiative, outsourcing can better meet customer needs and maintain their leadership position.
| Filament | Solid Unit Dose |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2023) | 38.6% |
A solid unit dose consists of discrete quantities of medications, typically tablets or capsules, for easier administration to patients. Medication errors are reduced when a solid unit dose is used.
Pharmaceuticals can be packaged in individual doses to ensure accurate and consistent dosing, reducing the likelihood of medication errors. Patient medication administration is particularly important in settings like long-term care homes and hospitals.
Medication can be manufactured more efficiently with solid unit doses. As long as drugs are prepared manually, there is a possibility that selection and sorting errors may occur. A significant reduction in this can be obtained by using unit dose packing. The method of medication delivery can also be easily chosen by doctors, regardless of the purpose of the medicine.
Solid unit dose packaging allows healthcare institutions to comply with regulations for unit dose labeling for both liquid and solid oral pharmaceuticals. The law requires solid dosage forms to disclose their strength, while liquid dosage forms must disclose the full quantity and proportion of the active ingredient.
Key players in the unit dose manufacturing industry are employing various growth strategies. A large number of new and well-established companies have defined the business for unit dose manufacturing. Acquisitions, mergers, and the release of new products are some of the strategies used by well-known industry players.
As part of their strategy to maintain their position in the competition, leaders in the industry adopt a variety of techniques, including product approvals, product launches, mergers, acquisitions, and innovations.
Recent Industry Developments in the Unit Dose Manufacturing
In terms of type, the industry is divided into In-house and outsourcing.
In terms of filament, the industry is segregated into a solid unit dose, liquid unit dose, other filaments.
In terms of application, the segment is categorized into independent pharmacies, long-term care facility, hospitals, and others
Key countries of North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia, East Asia, Middle East, and Africa have been covered in the report.
What is the future scope of the unit dose manufacturing market?
A market of USD 32.5 billion is expected in 2024 for unit dose manufacturing.
The unit dose manufacturing industry is predicted to generate USD 193.3 billion by 2034.
China and India are expected to lead the unit dose manufacturing market.
The key players operating in the unit dose manufacturing industry include Catalent Inc., Patheon (Thermo Fisher), Unither, and Tapemark.
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Unit Dose Manufacturing Market
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