The global dry eye syndrome treatment market is projected to reach USD 6.29 billion by 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.56% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of dry eye disease, which is associated with rising screen time, environmental factors, and an ageing population. India has emerged as a key market. According to a report published by India Today in July 2024, approximately 90% of schoolchildren exhibited signs of mild to severe dry eye disease. This had been linked to an average daily screen time of more than 3 to 3.5 hours.
Digital eye strain (DES) is one of the most widespread eye-related conditions globally. Its prevalence is due to an alarming number of ocular surface diseases, which are caused by lifestyle changes. A study published in June 2022 in BMC Ophthalmology reported that a higher incidence of DES is closely related to dry eye, affecting between 5% and 50% of the population, including women and older populations.
In 2024, the segment of evaporative dry eye (EDE) syndrome led the market. It is expected to increase with the fastest growth through 2030. EDE results from clogging of meibomian glands, which reduces the lipid layer of the tear film and enhances tear evaporation. EDE can lead to symptoms like stinging, blurred vision, and fatigue.
The common treatment options include lubricant drops, warm compresses, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements. The aqueous dry eye syndrome (ADES) segment is also anticipated to grow significantly. Dysfunctional lacrimal glands cause ADES and are gaining recognition due to increased awareness and advances in ocular imaging technologies.
Based on drug performance in 2024, Xiidra established a market share of 8.52% and became the leading therapy. The success of Xiidra is attributed to its low price, wide availability, and efficacy. The strategic interventions that support the growth of Xiidra include Bausch + Lomb’s purchasing of the drug from Novartis in September 2023 to expand its dry eye portfolio.
Tyrvaya is the other prominent drug under the spotlight and is expected to exhibit the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the coming years. In July 2022, Oyster Point Pharma provided Tyrvaya nasal spray access to patients in the U.S., enhancing its commercial performance and solidifying its growth potential.
In 2024, the United States dominated the North American dry eye treatment market, driven by regulatory approvals, strategic partnerships, and reduced out-of-pocket costs resulting from improved insurance coverage. A notable advancement was the clinical success of NOV03 in 2023, developed by Novaliq GmbH in collaboration with Bausch & Lomb.
In Europe, market expansion is supported by increased investment in research and innovation. For example, EIT Health allocated USD 1.70 million to eye care initiatives in Switzerland and Sweden. In contrast, the UK, where 34% of the population is affected by dry eye, has been implementing public awareness campaigns to promote the uptake of treatment.
The Asia Pacific market is expected to experience significant CAGRs through 2030, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure, an aging population, and growing awareness. Government initiatives are also playing a role, for instance, China Pharma Holdings’ plans to launch a new dry eye therapeutic device in early 2025, which may further accelerate regional growth.
Globally, the market remains highly competitive, with key players engaging in mergers, acquisitions, new product launches, and regional expansions. Leading companies are diversifying their portfolios to address diverse patient needs and to strengthen their international market presence in this rapidly evolving sector.
References: Grand View Research. Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Type, by Drug, by Product, by Dosage Form, by Sales Channel, by Distribution Channel, by Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2025–2030. Published 2025. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/dry-eye-syndrome-treatment-market
