PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1933359
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1933359
The global standard pen needles market was valued at USD 1.65 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 1.74 billion in 2026, reaching USD 3.07 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 7.31% during the forecast period. North America dominated the market in 2025 with a 66% share, supported by high diabetes prevalence, well-established insulin delivery infrastructure, and widespread adoption of insulin pens over traditional syringes. Standard pen needles are medical devices used with insulin pens and other injectable medications for subcutaneous delivery, offering painless, precise, and convenient self-administration, which is particularly beneficial in diabetes management. Key market players, including Novo Nordisk A/S, BD, and Embecta Corp., are focusing on technological innovations, strategic collaborations, and extensive investments to maintain market leadership.
Market Dynamics
Drivers: The rising global prevalence of diabetes is the primary driver for the market. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) 2023, over 530 million adults were living with diabetes, with numbers expected to rise in the coming decades. The growing adoption of insulin pens, favored for their portability and ease of use, especially among elderly and visually impaired patients, further drives the market. Initiatives by governments and NGOs to improve access to insulin and pen needles, along with campaigns to raise awareness about diabetes management, also contribute to market growth. For example, in August 2024, Breakthrough T1D launched the campaign "Detect so you can decide" to promote early Type 1 diabetes detection.
Restraints: Needle phobia, poor compliance with injection protocols, and reuse of pen needles hamper market growth. Globally, 28% of diabetic patients reportedly suffer from needle phobia, leading to skipped doses and poor glycemic control. Limited awareness and lack of strong reimbursement policies, especially in emerging markets, further restrict adoption.
Opportunities: Expanding market access in middle-income countries across Asia, Latin America, and Africa provides a significant opportunity. Rising diabetes prevalence, urbanization, and improved healthcare infrastructure in these regions drive demand for cost-effective and user-friendly pen needles. In June 2025, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) welcomed Novo Nordisk's initiative to supply insulin pens to South Africa at USD 1 per pen, reflecting growing accessibility efforts.
Challenges: Limited penetration of autoinjectors and other advanced drug delivery systems in emerging markets remains a challenge. Higher costs and lack of reimbursement policies in countries like China and India reduce adoption of these novel devices.
Market Trends
Technological innovations are reshaping the market. Manufacturers are developing ultra-fine, short-length pen needles with advanced lubrication and safety-engineered designs to reduce pain and anxiety. Devices with retractable or shielded needles enhance caregiver safety. Smart pens with digital integration, capable of recording and transmitting insulin doses, are gaining popularity to improve adherence and disease management. For instance, in September 2022, Terumo Corporation launched the FineGlide sterile pen needle in India, emphasizing patient comfort and compatibility with self-administered insulin therapy.
By Drug Type: The insulin segment dominated in 2024, driven by long-term therapy for Type 1 and advanced Type 2 diabetes. The GLP-1 segment held the second-largest share, with growth supported by rising prescriptions and approvals, such as Biocon Limited's Liraglutide launch in February 2025 for obesity and diabetes treatment in the U.K.
By Disease Indication: Diabetes leads the market due to widespread injectable therapy requirements. The obesity segment is expected to grow rapidly with increasing global prevalence and adoption of compatible injectable therapies.
By Needle Size: The 4 mm needle dominated in 2024 due to comfort, reduced risk of intramuscular injection, and physician preference. The 6 mm needle segment is projected to grow, driven by use in adults with higher BMI or obesity.
By Distribution Channel: Retail pharmacies held the largest market share in 2024, offering convenience and accessibility, while online pharmacies are expected to grow fastest due to home delivery, subscription models, and digital health expansion.
North America: Market size reached USD 0.63 billion in 2025, driven by high diabetes prevalence and well-established insulin delivery systems. In the U.S., pen injectors benefit from strong reimbursement policies, while Canada is seeing rising adoption in home care.
Europe: Holds a significant share, supported by increasing awareness of self-injection therapies and favorable healthcare policies. In the U.K., 71 million items were prescribed for diabetes management in 2024.
Asia Pacific: Expected to grow at the fastest rate due to rising diabetes, urbanization, and healthcare access improvements. Regulatory approvals, such as Novo Nordisk's Novopen in China (2022), drive market expansion.
Latin America & Middle East & Africa: Steady growth is anticipated. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and UAE are witnessing rising diabetes prevalence, government-led initiatives, and expanding healthcare infrastructure.
Competitive Landscape
The market is fragmented, with key players including Embecta Corp., Cardinal Health, MTD Medical Technology and Devices, UltiMed, Inc., Owen Mumford, Medline Industries, and Braun SE. Strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and new product launches are common strategies. Key developments include Braun SE's collaboration with Orlando Health in March 2025 and Owen Mumford's partnership with Duopharma Biotech in February 2024.
Conclusion
The global standard pen needles market is projected to grow from USD 1.65 billion in 2025 to USD 1.74 billion in 2026, reaching USD 3.07 billion by 2034. Market growth is driven by rising diabetes prevalence, increasing insulin pen adoption, and technological advancements enhancing patient comfort. While needle phobia and limited penetration of autoinjectors present challenges, expansion in emerging markets and digital integration offer significant opportunities through 2034.
Segmentation By Drug Type, Disease Indication, Needle Size, Distribution Channel, and Region
By Drug Type * Insulin
By Disease Indication * Diabetes
By Needle Size * 4 mm
By Distribution Channel * Hospital Pharmacy
By Region * North America (By Drug Type, Disease Indication, Needle Size, Distribution Channel, and Country)