Xerostomia Therapeutics Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity & Forecast, Segmented By Type (OTC, Prescription), By Product (Salivary Stimulants, Salivary Substitutes, Dentifrices), By Region & Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market was valued at USD 2.15 Billion in 2024 and is anticipated to project steady growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 3.75% through 2030. The Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market refers to the market for products and treatments designed to manage and alleviate the symptoms of xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth. Xerostomia is a medical condition characterized by reduced or absent salivary gland function, leading to insufficient saliva production. It can result from various causes, including medication side effects, chronic diseases, radiation therapy, and age-related factors.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Aging Population

The increasing aging population is a crucial market driver for the growth of the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market. By 2050, an estimated 80% of the global senior population will reside in low- and middle-income countries, signaling a major demographic shift with significant economic implications. The rate of population ageing is accelerating far more rapidly than in previous decades, presenting both challenges and emerging market opportunities. Notably, in 2020, individuals aged 60 and above surpassed the number of children under five for the first time, highlighting a structural transformation in global age distribution. Furthermore, between 2015 and 2050, the share of the global population aged 60+ is projected to nearly double from 12% to 22% marking a pivotal transition that demands targeted investment in age-focused services, infrastructure, and policy frameworks. This demographic shift is reshaping the healthcare landscape and directly impacting the demand for xerostomia therapeutics. Xerostomia is more common in older individuals due to the natural aging process. Salivary gland function tends to decline with age, leading to decreased saliva production. This age-related xerostomia not only affects the comfort and quality of life of seniors but also increases the risk of dental issues and oral infections. As a result, the aging population represents a significant and growing patient base for xerostomia therapeutics. Xerostomia represents a critical health concern among older adults, with a measurable impact on daily functioning and overall quality of life. While prevalence estimates vary widely ranging from 0.9% to 64.8% in the general population the condition is notably more common in aging demographics, affecting approximately 30% of individuals over 65 and rising to 40% in those over 80. Seniors are more likely to take multiple medications for chronic health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Many of these medications have xerostomia as a common side effect. As a result, older adults are at a higher risk of experiencing drug-induced dry mouth. This increases the demand for xerostomia treatment options to mitigate the side effects and improve medication adherence.

Xerostomia can have severe consequences for oral health, including an increased risk of dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral candidiasis. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to these oral health issues, and their prevalence is expected to rise with the aging population. This necessitates the need for effective xerostomia therapeutics to maintain and improve the oral health of seniors. The aging population places a strong emphasis on improving the quality of life for older individuals. Dry mouth can significantly affect the daily lives of seniors, making it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep. Therefore, there is a growing focus on providing xerostomia treatments that enhance the well-being and comfort of older adults. This emphasis on patient-centered care contributes to the expansion of the xerostomia therapeutics market. Governments and healthcare organizations are increasingly recognizing the specific healthcare needs of the aging population. This includes addressing conditions like xerostomia, which can impact the overall health and independence of seniors. As a result, healthcare policies and insurance plans are evolving to encompass the treatment of xerostomia, thus driving market growth.

Increased Medication Use

Increased medication use is a significant market driver for the growth of the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market. This is due to the well-established link between various medications and the development of xerostomia (dry mouth). Many medications, including antihypertensives, antidepressants, antihistamines, and anticholinergics, are known to cause dry mouth as a common side effect. The use of these medications has been steadily increasing due to the rising incidence of chronic health conditions such as hypertension, depression, allergies, and more. Consequently, a larger number of individuals are experiencing medication-induced xerostomia, creating a growing patient base for xerostomia therapeutics.

Xerostomia can significantly affect patient compliance and adherence to prescribed medications. Dry mouth can make swallowing pills difficult, and patients may be less likely to take their medications as prescribed due to discomfort. This leads to suboptimal treatment outcomes and exacerbates underlying health conditions. To address this issue, healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies are actively seeking xerostomia therapeutics to help patients manage dry mouth symptoms and adhere to their medication regimens.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are increasingly investing in research and development efforts to address xerostomia as a side effect of various medications. This has resulted in the development of new drugs, saliva substitutes, and other therapeutic options designed to alleviate dry mouth caused by medication use. This innovation contributes to the expansion of the xerostomia therapeutics market. Xerostomia-inducing medications span a wide range of therapeutic categories, from pain management and oncology to psychiatric and cardiovascular drugs. As more therapeutic areas expand and new medications are introduced to the market, the potential for medication-induced xerostomia continues to grow. Consequently, healthcare providers are increasingly seeking effective treatment options for this patient population. The elderly population, which is growing in size, is more likely to be prescribed multiple medications to manage age-related health conditions. Given the prevalence of xerostomia in older adults, there is a greater need for targeted xerostomia therapeutics to enhance their medication adherence and overall quality of life.

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

The rising prevalence of chronic diseases is a significant market driver for the growth of the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market. According to projections from the World Health Organization, the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) signals a profound shift in global health dynamics. If current trends persist, by 2050 chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory disorders are expected to drive 86% of an estimated 90 million annual deaths. This represents a 90% surge in absolute mortality figures compared to 2019. Chronic diseases are often associated with xerostomia (dry mouth), and as the incidence of these conditions increases, so does the demand for xerostomia therapeutics. Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, Sjögren's syndrome, and autoimmune disorders, are commonly associated with xerostomia. This is because the underlying pathology of these conditions can lead to reduced salivary gland function and dry mouth. As the global burden of chronic diseases continues to rise, there is a parallel increase in the number of individuals experiencing xerostomia. Therefore, there is a growing need for effective xerostomia therapeutics to manage this condition among patients with chronic diseases.

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. Approximately 830 million individuals globally are living with diabetes, with the vast majority concentrated in low- and middle-income countries. It is well-documented that individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing xerostomia due to impaired salivary function. With the increasing incidence of diabetes, especially in developing countries, the number of people with diabetes-related xerostomia is on the rise. This boosts the demand for xerostomia therapeutics to improve the quality of life and oral health of diabetic patients. Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder, is characterized by chronic dryness of the mouth and eyes. Autoimmune disorders, in general, can affect salivary gland function and lead to xerostomia. The prevalence of autoimmune diseases is increasing, necessitating the development of specialized xerostomia therapeutics to address the unique needs of these patients.

Cancer, particularly head and neck cancer, is often treated with radiation therapy, which can damage salivary glands and result in chronic xerostomia. As reported in the Global Cancer Statistics 2020, head and neck cancer (HNC) emerged as the third most prevalent cancer globally, with 1,464,550 newly diagnosed cases and 487,993 deaths. Representing 7.6% of all cancer incidences and 4.8% of total cancer-related mortality, HNC constitutes a significant share of the global oncology burden. As cancer incidence rises and treatment outcomes improve, more individuals are surviving cancer but living with the side effects of treatment, including dry mouth. This has led to a growing demand for xerostomia therapeutics to enhance the quality of life for cancer survivors. The growing focus on patient-centered care in healthcare emphasizes not only treating the primary condition but also addressing symptoms and improving the overall quality of life for patients. Dry mouth can have a significant impact on a patient's daily life, affecting eating, speaking, and oral health. Therefore, healthcare providers are increasingly seeking xerostomia therapeutics to enhance the well-being of patients with chronic diseases.

Technological Advancements and Product Innovation

Technological advancements and product innovation play a pivotal role as market drivers for the growth of the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market. These advancements have led to the development of innovative treatment options, creating opportunities for improved therapeutic efficacy and patient comfort. Technological advancements have enabled the creation of novel drug formulations specifically designed to address xerostomia. These formulations may include sustained-release medications, mucoadhesive gels, and sprays that provide longer-lasting relief from dry mouth symptoms. These innovations enhance the convenience and effectiveness of treatment, driving market growth.

Ongoing research has led to the development of more effective saliva substitutes, which are designed to mimic natural saliva in terms of viscosity, lubrication, and other properties. These substitutes provide better relief to individuals suffering from xerostomia, improving their comfort and overall quality of life. The demand for such innovative products contributes to market expansion. Technological advancements have resulted in the creation of salivary stimulants that can activate salivary glands to produce more saliva. These products often come in the form of lozenges, chewing gum, or sprays. The innovation in salivary stimulants offers patients a more active approach to managing their dry mouth, making these products increasingly popular.

Advances in technology have led to the development of medical devices aimed at addressing xerostomia. For instance, electronic salivary stimulators can provide gentle electrical stimulation to salivary glands, promoting saliva production. These devices are often more patient-friendly and less invasive than traditional treatments, making them a preferred choice for many individuals. Technological advancements in genomics and personalized medicine have enabled healthcare providers to tailor xerostomia therapeutics to individual patients. Understanding a patient's genetic predisposition to dry mouth can help optimize treatment outcomes, as it allows for the selection of the most suitable medications and treatment modalities.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

Limited Awareness and Diagnosis

One of the primary challenges is the underdiagnosis of xerostomia. Dry mouth can often be a secondary symptom or side effect of other medical conditions or medications, making it challenging to identify and diagnose as a primary concern. Healthcare providers may not always recognize xerostomia as a significant issue, which can lead to delayed or missed treatment opportunities.

Many individuals experiencing dry mouth symptoms may not be aware that their condition is treatable. They may attribute their symptoms to aging or medication side effects and not seek proper medical attention. The lack of awareness among patients can slow the growth of the xerostomia therapeutics market.

Fragmented Market and Treatment Approaches

Xerostomia can result from various factors, including medication use, aging, chronic diseases, radiation therapy, and autoimmune disorders. These diverse causes have led to a fragmented market with a wide range of treatment approaches. Healthcare providers often have to tailor treatments to the specific cause of dry mouth, making it challenging to develop standardized therapies and impacting the market's growth.

The market offers various therapeutic modalities, including medications, saliva substitutes, medical devices, and lifestyle modifications. This diversity can create confusion among patients and healthcare providers about the most suitable treatment approach. The lack of clear guidance and standardized protocols can slow down market growth.

Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges

Developing and gaining regulatory approval for new xerostomia therapeutics can be a lengthy and costly process. Regulatory authorities require rigorous testing to ensure safety and efficacy, and meeting these requirements can be a substantial barrier for market entry. This challenge can limit the availability of new and innovative treatments.

In many healthcare systems, reimbursement for xerostomia therapeutics may not be straightforward. The availability and extent of coverage can vary widely, affecting patient access to treatment options. The uncertainty surrounding reimbursement can hinder market growth, as healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies may be reluctant to invest in new therapies without clear reimbursement pathways. Pricing pressures from payers, government agencies, and healthcare institutions can limit the profitability of xerostomia therapeutics. Balancing the need to provide effective treatments with cost considerations can be a challenge for market stakeholders.

Key Market Trends

Personalized Medicine and Targeted Therapies

One prominent trend in the xerostomia therapeutics market is the move towards personalized medicine. Advances in genomics and molecular biology are enabling healthcare providers to better understand the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying xerostomia in individual patients. This understanding allows for more precise and targeted treatment approaches.

Pharmacogenomics, the study of how an individual's genetic makeup influences their response to medications, is increasingly relevant in xerostomia therapy. It helps in identifying the most effective medications and treatment modalities for a specific patient, reducing the trial-and-error approach to treatment. Research is ongoing to identify biomarkers associated with xerostomia, which can aid in early diagnosis and treatment selection. The development of such biomarkers can lead to more efficient and tailored therapeutic options, improving patient outcomes.

Emerging Therapeutic Modalities

The market is witnessing the emergence of novel therapeutic modalities, such as salivary stimulants and secretagogues. These drugs work by stimulating the salivary glands to produce more saliva, offering a proactive approach to treating xerostomia. They are becoming increasingly popular as they address the root cause of the condition.

Biologic drugs, including gene and cell-based therapies, are being explored for their potential in restoring salivary gland function. While these therapies are still in the experimental stages, they represent a promising frontier in xerostomia therapeutics. Lifestyle modifications and behavioral interventions, including hydration strategies, oral care regimens, and dietary adjustments, are gaining attention as complementary or standalone treatment options. Patients are increasingly looking for holistic approaches to manage dry mouth symptoms.

Telehealth and Remote Monitoring

Telehealth and remote monitoring technologies are being increasingly integrated into the xerostomia therapeutics landscape. This trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasized the importance of remote healthcare access. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers and specialists, receive guidance, and monitor their condition from the comfort of their homes.

Remote monitoring tools are becoming more sophisticated, enabling patients to track and report their xerostomia symptoms to healthcare providers. This real-time data collection improves the management of the condition and enhances patient care. Telehealth and remote monitoring broaden access to specialized care for xerostomia patients, especially for those in underserved or remote areas. This trend aligns with the broader movement toward patient-centered care and increased healthcare accessibility.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on the category of Type, the OTC segment emerged as the fastest growing segment in the global market for Xerostomia Therapeutics in 2024. OTC xerostomia therapeutics, which include saliva substitutes, oral moisturizers, and lozenges, can be purchased without a prescription. This ease of access means that individuals experiencing dry mouth symptoms can obtain relief products conveniently from local pharmacies, drugstores, or even online retailers without the need for a healthcare provider's authorization. OTC products are readily available on store shelves and online marketplaces. Consumers can purchase them on the spot or have them delivered to their homes, offering immediate relief to those suffering from the discomfort of xerostomia. In contrast, prescription-based therapeutics may involve a delay in obtaining the treatment.

OTC products empower consumers to choose the specific xerostomia therapeutics that best suit their needs. This freedom of choice allows individuals to select products based on factors like taste, texture, ingredients, and personal preferences, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction. Many individuals prefer to take control of their healthcare, especially for non-severe conditions like xerostomia. OTC products enable self-care, giving individuals the autonomy to manage their symptoms without the need for repeated visits to healthcare providers. This self-care trend aligns with the broader movement toward preventive health and wellness.

Many OTC xerostomia therapeutics are non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive. These options typically consist of saliva substitutes, oral moisturizers, sugar-free lozenges, and gums. Because they do not involve the introduction of active pharmaceutical ingredients, consumers may perceive them as lower risk and more in line with natural or holistic approaches to healthcare. OTC xerostomia therapeutics are generally designed to be mild and well-tolerated, with fewer reported side effects compared to prescription medications. This makes them appealing to individuals who may be wary of potential adverse reactions associated with pharmaceutical interventions. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

North America emerged as the largest market in the global Xerostomia Therapeutics market in 2024, holding the largest market share in terms of value. North America boasts advanced healthcare infrastructure with well-established healthcare systems, making it easier for patients to access specialized treatments and for pharmaceutical companies to introduce new xerostomia therapeutics. North America has a high prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and autoimmune disorders, which are often associated with xerostomia. This increases the demand for xerostomia therapeutics in the region. The use of medications that can cause dry mouth is also widespread in North America. This contributes to the high incidence of xerostomia and drives the demand for treatments. The region is home to many major pharmaceutical companies known for their commitment to research and development. These companies focus on innovating xerostomia therapeutics, introducing new and improved treatment options. Health insurance coverage in North America is relatively common, making xerostomia therapeutics more accessible to a larger portion of the population. Patients are more likely to seek and afford treatment, contributing to the market's dominance. North America conducts numerous clinical trials and research studies related to xerostomia therapeutics. This generates awareness and supports the development of new treatment options. Stringent regulatory standards and government oversight in North America ensure the safety and efficacy of xerostomia therapeutics. This regulatory framework instills trust in the market.

Recent Developments

• In March 2025, RiboX Therapeutics Ltd. (RiboX), an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company specializing in next-generation circular RNA therapeutics, has initiated patient dosing in its first-in-human Phase I/IIa clinical trial, SPRINX-1. The trial is assessing the safety and preliminary efficacy of RXRG001 in individuals suffering from radiation-induced xerostomia (RIX) and hyposalivation—conditions commonly experienced by head and neck cancer survivors. 
• In January 2025, Gene therapy is emerging as a promising intervention for head and neck cancer survivors suffering from radiotherapy-induced xerostomia, a debilitating condition with limited treatment options. A novel clinical trial underway at University College London Hospitals (UCLH), including the Eastman Dental Hospital, is evaluating a targeted gene-based solution designed to restore salivary function. This cutting-edge approach signals a potential breakthrough in post-radiotherapy care, addressing a significant unmet need and opening new avenues for biotech innovation in supportive oncology treatment.
• In September 2024, MeiraGTx Holdings plc (Nasdaq: MGTX), a fully integrated clinical-stage genetic medicines company, announced that its investigational therapy AAV2-hAQP1 has received Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Grade 2/3 radiation-induced xerostomia (RIX). This designation reflects the FDA’s recognition of AAV2-hAQP1’s potential to address a serious unmet medical need and may expedite its development and regulatory review.

Key Market Players

• GlaxoSmithKline plc
• Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
• Colgate-Palmolive Company
• Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC
• Pendopharm
• Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd
• Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• Pfizer, Inc.
• Parnell Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• Acacia Pharma

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Xerostomia Therapeutics Market, By Type:

o   OTC

o   Prescription

• Xerostomia Therapeutics Market, By Product:

o   Salivary Stimulants

o   Salivary Substitutes

o   Dentifrices

• Xerostomia Therapeutics Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Xerostomia Therapeutics market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Global Xerostomia Therapeutics Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at sales@techsciresearch.com