PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930035
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930035
The global brain tumor drugs market is witnessing steady growth driven by the rising incidence of brain cancer, advancements in diagnosis, and increasing investment in drug development. In 2025, the global market was valued at USD 2.29 billion. It is projected to grow to USD 2.55 billion in 2026 and further reach USD 5.2 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 9.30% during the forecast period (2026-2034).
North America dominated the market with a 43.38% share in 2025, supported by strong reimbursement policies, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and a robust pipeline of oncology drugs. The U.S. brain tumor drugs market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 1.47 billion by 2030.
Brain tumors are abnormal masses of tissue caused by uncontrolled cell growth in the brain. They are classified into primary tumors, originating in the brain, and metastatic tumors, which spread from other organs. Primary tumors account for the majority of diagnosed cases globally.
Market Drivers
Rising Prevalence of Brain Cancer
The increasing prevalence of brain tumors worldwide is a major factor driving market growth. Lifestyle changes, smoking, aging populations, exposure to radiation, and environmental factors have contributed to rising cancer incidence. Brain tumors account for nearly 1-2% of total cancer cases, yet they exhibit a high mortality rate.
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, global brain cancer incidence is expected to rise from 308,102 cases in 2024 to 415,183 cases by 2040. Increasing diagnosis and treatment rates, particularly in North America and Asia Pacific, are boosting the demand for brain tumor drugs.
Strong Pipeline and R&D Investments
The market is further supported by a strong pipeline of investigational drugs. By 2025, more than 150 brain tumor drug candidates were under clinical development. Governments and research organizations are actively funding brain cancer research to address unmet medical needs. For instance, in October 2022, the Australian government allocated USD 4.0 million to support brain cancer research initiatives.
Market Trends
Advancements in Diagnosis and Personalized Medicine
Early diagnosis of brain tumors remains challenging due to the blood-brain barrier, which limits drug delivery. However, advancements in molecular diagnostics, liquid biopsy, and genetic biomarker analysis are improving early detection and treatment outcomes.
Innovations such as circulating tumor DNA analysis and blood-based diagnostic tests are gaining traction. In January 2023, Datar Cancer Genetics received U.S. FDA breakthrough designation for TriNetr-Glio, a liquid biopsy test for detecting malignant brain tumors. These advancements are expected to increase diagnosis rates and drug adoption.
COVID-19 Impact
The brain tumor drugs market was negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. According to the CDC, cancer incidence declined by 11% in 2024 compared to 2019, primarily due to reduced screenings. Major players also faced supply chain disruptions and revenue declines. For instance, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. reported a 29.4% decline in Avastin revenues in 2024. However, market recovery began as healthcare services resumed post-pandemic.
Market Segmentation Analysis
By Therapy
The market is segmented into chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and others.
The chemotherapy segment dominated the market with a 38.49% share in 2026, as it remains the first-line and adjuvant treatment for brain tumors.
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy segments are expected to grow rapidly due to increasing approvals, clinical collaborations, and advancements in precision medicine.
By Indication
Based on indication, the market includes glioma, meningioma, pituitary, and others.
The glioma segment led the market with a 41.24% share in 2026, driven by the high prevalence of malignant gliomas and increasing drug launches for glioblastoma treatment.
By Distribution Channel
The hospital pharmacy segment dominated the market with a 94.25% share in 2026, as these drugs require hospital-based administration and insurance reimbursement. Retail and online pharmacies are gradually expanding with increased outpatient treatment.
Competitive Landscape
The market is consolidated, with leading players such as F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Merck & Co., Amgen Inc., and Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC. Strategic initiatives including acquisitions, FDA approvals, and pipeline expansion are strengthening market competition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the global brain tumor drugs market is poised for consistent growth, expanding from USD 2.29 billion in 2025 to USD 5.2 billion by 2034. Rising brain cancer prevalence, strong drug pipelines, advancements in diagnostics, and increasing government support are driving market expansion. Despite challenges such as high treatment costs and limited reimbursement in developing regions, continuous innovation and regulatory approvals are expected to sustain long-term market growth.
Segmentation By Therapy
By Indication
By Distribution Channel
By Region