The United States ophthalmic market is expected to be valued at approximately USD 18.82 billion in 2025 and reach USD 33.97 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 18.82% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration, coupled with a growing geriatric population susceptible to these conditions. More than four million Americans are living with glaucoma, over 2 million of whom—aged 40 and older—are affected by its most common form, open-angle glaucoma. It is mostly associated with increased pressure on and inside eyes. Additionally, rising healthcare expenditures and increased awareness about early diagnosis and treatment options are fueling demand for ophthalmic products and services across the country.
Key Market Takeaways
- In terms of drug class, anti-inflammatory drugs are expected to dominate with
36.3%
of market share in 2025. This is driven by their widespread use in treating common eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome, allergic conjunctivitis, and other inflammatory disorders. These drugs are favored for their effectiveness in reducing inflammation, promoting faster healing, and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, their strong presence in both prescription and over-the-counter treatments further contributes to their market dominance. - Based on dosage form, eye drops segment is expected to lead the market. Their dominance is due to the ease of administration, better patient compliance, and broad applicability across multiple conditions, including dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and allergic conjunctivitis.
- In terms of indication, the retinal disorders segment is projected to hold the largest share of the United States ophthalmic market. This growth is fueled by an aging population, rising diabetes prevalence, and ongoing advancements in retinal disease therapies.
- In terms of distribution channel, retail pharmacies segment is expected to dominate in 2025, owing to their easy accessibility, availability of a wide range of ophthalmic products, and increasing consumer preference for over-the-counter (OTC) medications
- Regionally, the Northeast region is anticipated to maintain the leading position in the United States ophthalmic market, accounting for over 40% market share in 2025. This dominance is primarily driven by a large patient population, increasing healthcare spending, and the strong presence of leading ophthalmic care providers and specialty clinics, particularly in states like New York and Massachusetts.
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United States Ophthalmic
Market Report Coverage
Report Coverage
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Details
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Market Revenue in 2024
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USD 18.82 billion
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Estimated Value by 2031
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USD 33.97 billion
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Growth Rate
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Poised to exhibit a CAGR of 8.8%
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Historical Data
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2020–2024
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Forecast Period
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2025–2032
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Forecast Units
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Value (USD Billion)
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Report Coverage
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Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
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Segments Covered
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Geographies Covered
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Northeast, West, South and Midwest
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Growth Drivers
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Opportunities
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Trends
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Restraints & Challenges
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Market Dynamics
The United States ophthalmic market growth is primarily driven by modern lifestyle factors, such as increased screen time and constant exposure to digital devices, resulting in a rise in conditions like digital eye strain and dry eye syndrome. According to a HealthArc report in October 2024, Americans now spend an average of 7 hours and 3 minutes per day using internet-connected devices, with nearly equal time spent on mobile devices (3 hours 30 minutes) and computers (3 hours 34 minutes).
Additionally, the growth of teleophthalmology and remote patient monitoring (RPM) is enhancing access to eye care, particularly in underserved communities. These technologies facilitate early detection and continuous disease management, further fueling the market expansion. The number of patients using RPM in the U.S. grew from 23 million in 2020 to 30 million in 2024, with projections suggesting this number could reach 70.6 million by the end of 2025.
This rapid adoption of RPM technologies highlights the increasing popularity of digital health solutions, benefiting both healthcare providers and patients. As a result, the integration of teleophthalmology services is expected to play a key role in the continued growth of the ophthalmic market.
Market Trends
Advancements in Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Innovations in ophthalmic procedures, such as femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), are gaining traction. These surgeries offer fast recovery and better patient outcomes, leading to higher adoption rates. In early 2024, several glaucoma specialists in Texas began utilizing next-generation MIGS devices that allow for more effective intraocular pressure reduction with minimal tissue disruption. The new MIGS platforms have demonstrated lower complication rates and improved patient comfort, resulting in a notable increase in their adoption among surgeons across the United States.
Rise in Adoption of AI and Smart Diagnostics
Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered diagnostic tools are being adopted by several medical provides into ophthalmology, since they help in the early detection of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a result, AI-driven imaging systems and predictive analytics are expected to transform disease management further propelling the market expansion. For instance, in March 2025, Altris AI announced the launch of an advanced glaucoma Optic Disc Analysis module intended to aid in the early detection of the disease. The new artificial intelligence (AI) module builds upon an earlier innovation that utilizes Ganglion Cell Complex (GCC) Asymmetry Analysis that will enhance improvements from the Altris AI macula module, according to the news.
Market Opportunities
Growing Demand for Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Ophthalmology
The rising incidences of eye disorders like conjunctivitis, scleritis, and uveitis are driving demand for anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications are essential for controlling the pain and inflammation brought on by a number of eye conditions. Pharmaceutical companies are concentrating on creating sophisticated formulations with increased efficacy and fewer side effects as patients look for more effective treatment options. This growing demand presents a significant opportunity for the market expansion.
Expansion of Online Pharmacies for Ophthalmic Products
The rising popularity of online pharmacies is transforming the ophthalmic market by offering greater accessibility to medications such as eye drops, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter treatments. Online platforms are becoming more and more popular among consumers because of their ease of use, affordable prices, and wide selection of products. It is anticipated that this trend will continue, offering digital health retailers and pharmaceutical companies seeking to broaden their customer base a profitable growth path.
For instance, in January 2022, Alcon, the global leader in eye care dedicated to helping people see brilliantly, announced the European launch of the newest addition to its innovative portfolio of dry eye products – Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops, now in an easy-to-use, multi-dose bottle.
Analyst View
“The United States ophthalmic market is expanding steadily, fueled by the growing incidence of chronic eye conditions such as glaucoma, retinal disorders, and dry eye syndrome, along with an aging population increasingly susceptible to these diseases,” states Mr. Ghanshyam Shrivastava, a senior healthcare analyst. “With a projected CAGR of 8.6% through 2032, heightened health awareness, increased healthcare spending, and improved access to diagnosis and treatment are driving strong demand for ophthalmic drugs and services.”
“The integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostics, the widespread adoption of remote patient monitoring (RPM), and the rise of minimally invasive surgical techniques are fundamentally transforming ophthalmic care delivery,” he adds. “Additionally, the rapid expansion of online and retail pharmacy channels is broadening consumer access to both prescription and OTC eye care products. Companies that invest in R&D, embrace digital health innovations, and focus on precision therapies will be best positioned to capitalize on the market’s accelerating trajectory.”
Competitor Insights
Key players in the
United States Ophthalmic Market
include:
- Novartis AG
- AbbVie
- Merck & CO., Inc
- Bausch Helath Companies Inc.
- Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
- Regeneron Pharmaceutical, Inc.
- Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
- Ocular Therapeutic, Inc.
- Alcon
- KALA BIO
- Aequus Pharmaceuticals
- Omeros Corporation
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
- Eyenovia, Inc.
- Nicox
Recent Key Developments
In November 2024
, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA announced the launch of Travoprost Ophthalmic Solution USP, 0.004% (Ionic Buffered Solution). According to the company’s statement, Glenmark’s Travoprost Ophthalmic Solution USP, 0.004% is bioequivalent and therapeutically equivalent to the reference listed drug, Travatan Z Ophthalmic Solution USP, 0.004% of Sandoz, Inc.
Market Segmentation
By Drug Type
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- Anti-inflammatory Drugs
- Anti-infective Drugs
- Anti-glaucoma Drugs
- Anti-VEGF Agents
- Others (Lubricants and Artificial Tears, etc.)
By Dosage Form
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- Eye Drops
- Ointments
- Gels
- Solutions
- Injections
- Others (Tablets, Suspension, etc.)
By Indication
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- Dry Eye Syndrome
- Glaucoma
- Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Retinal Disorders
- Others (Inflammatory Eye Conditions, etc.)
By Distribution Channel
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- Hospital Pharmacies
- Retail Pharmacies
- Online Pharmacies
- Others