Drugs in ATC Class D10A

Up to Top Level ATC Classes

Up to D - Dermatologicals

Up to D10 - ANTI-ACNE PREPARATIONS

Subclasses in ATC: D10A - ANTI-ACNE PREPARATIONS FOR TOPICAL USE

D10AA - Corticosteroids, combinations for treatment of acne

D10AB - Preparations containing sulfur

D10AD - Retinoids for topical use in acne

D10AE - Peroxides

D10AF - Antiinfectives for treatment of acne

D10AX - Other anti-acne preparations for topical use

D10A Market Analysis and Financial Projection

The global market for topical anti-acne preparations (ATC Class D10A) demonstrates robust growth driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and strategic patent activity. Below is a detailed analysis of market dynamics and patent trends shaping this sector:

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Market Dynamics

Market Size and Growth

• The global acne treatment market is projected to grow from $12.19B in 2025 to $17.48B by 2032 (CAGR: 5.3%)[16], with topical products dominating 47.5% of the acne drugs market in 2023[17].
• Anti-acne dermal patches, a rapidly emerging segment, are forecast to grow at 6.86% CAGR, reaching $902.96M by 2030[5].

Key Segments and Drivers

• Topical retinoids (e.g., adapalene, tretinoin) and combination therapies (e.g., benzoyl peroxide + tretinoin) lead demand due to efficacy and reduced irritation[13][17].
• Innovative formulations, such as once-weekly Spongilla-based XYNGARI™ (patented by Dermata), address compliance challenges[11].
• OTC accessibility and rising consumer focus on aesthetics fuel growth, particularly in Asia-Pacific, where acne prevalence and disposable incomes are rising[4][15].

Regional Trends

• Asia-Pacific holds 40.44% market share (2022), driven by Australia, Japan, and South Korea[4]. India and China are key growth markets due to urbanization and skincare awareness[15].
• The U.S. and Europe remain innovation hubs, with regulatory approvals like Twyneo (FDA-approved in 2021) and partnerships accelerating commercialization[13][11].

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Patent Landscape

Key Innovations and IP Trends

• Combination therapies: Patents for stabilized formulations (e.g., Twyneo’s tretinoin + benzoyl peroxide) solve historical compatibility issues, extending patent protection to 2038[13].
• Delivery systems: Dermal patches and Spongilla technology (US Patent 12,208,123) emphasize minimally invasive solutions with enhanced biocompatibility[5][11].
• AI-driven drug discovery: Over 1,087 patents filed globally (2002–2024) highlight accelerated R&D, with the U.S. leading in filings[2].

Strategic Patent Focus

• Topical stability: US6433024B1 covers compositions minimizing irritation through organic peroxides and alpha hydroxy acids[3].
• Microbiome targeting: Emerging patents focus on microbiome-modulating agents to reduce antibiotic reliance[11][13].

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Competitive Insights

• Established players: Neutrogena, Clinique, and Galderma dominate with legacy brands like Differin (adapalene)[17].
• Emerging biotech: Dermata and Sol-Gel Technologies leverage patents for novel mechanisms (e.g., XYNGARI, Twyneo)[11][13].
• Market consolidation: Acquisitions (e.g., Galderma’s purchase of ALASTIN Skincare) expand portfolios and distribution networks[16].

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Challenges and Opportunities

• Regulatory hurdles: Strict safety requirements delay launches, but expedited pathways (e.g., FDA’s 505(b)(2)) benefit reformulations[13].
• Sustainability: Demand for eco-friendly packaging and vegan formulations opens niches for niche brands[4].

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Future Outlook

The market will pivot toward personalized skincare, combining AI-driven diagnostics with targeted topical therapies. Patent filings for microbiome-based treatments and sustained-release patches (e.g., Mentholatum’s hydrocolloid technology) will drive next-gen innovations[5][16]. Regional expansion in Africa and Latin America, coupled with telehealth adoption, offers untapped growth potential[15].

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“The approval of Twyneo offers efficacy with two proven agents in a single application, revolutionizing acne care.” — Dr. Hilary Baldwin, American Acne and Rosacea Society[13]

References

1. https://www.iqvia.com/-/media/iqvia/pdfs/belgium/sales-trends/2021/march-2021-belgian-reg-med-best-performers.pdf
2. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241220028301/en/AI-Driven-Drug-Discovery-Patent-Landscape-Report-2024-1087-Patents-Analyzed-with-Market-Sales-Data-and-Growth-Rates---ResearchAndMarkets.com
3. https://patents.google.com/patent/US6433024B1/en
4. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/anti-acne-cosmetics-market
5. https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/anti-acne-dermal-patch
6. https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/acne-therapeutics-market
7. https://wiadlek.pl/wp-content/uploads/archive/2020/WLek202011126.pdf
8. https://ipwatchdog.com/2024/02/13/patent-landscape-quantum-computing-survey-patenting-activities-different-physical-realization-methods/id=173303/
9. https://www.atcorp.com/about/patents/
10. https://www.promarketreports.com/reports/atc-market-589
11. https://www.biospace.com/press-releases/dermata-expands-patent-portfolio-with-issuance-of-new-u-s-patent-for-next-generation-acne-treatment
12. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/air-traffic-control-equipment-market-159216929.html
13. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/fda-approves-first-fixeddose-combination-topical-medication-for-acne-vulgaris
14. https://atcddd.fhi.no/atc_ddd_index/?code=D10A
15. https://straitsresearch.com/report/anti-acne-treatment-market
16. https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/acne-treatment-market-103361
17. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/acne-drugs-market
18. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ATC_code_D10