Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market

The global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market size was USD 1.61 billion in 2023, and is calculated at USD 1.71 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to reach USD 3.22 Billion by 2034, and register a revenue 6.5% over the forecast period (2025-2034).

Premium Insights:

The global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market is registering steady incline in revenue growth due to key factors such as rising ILD prevalence, particularly Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), linked to aging populations and environmental risk factors. Also, increased awareness and advancements in high-resolution diagnostic tools, such as CT scans, are improving early detection rates and supporting demand for various treatment options. Availability of advanced therapies, notably antifibrotic drugs like nintedanib and pirfenidone, have been transforming ILD management, and this trend is expected to continue to support growth of the market.

Rising investment in pharmaceuticals and Research and Development (R&D) is another critical factor driving market growth. More companies are prioritizing development of novel treatments for ILD, supported by government funding and fast-track regulatory approvals. Emerging markets in Asia Pacific and Latin America are seeing rising demand for ILD treatments, supported by expanding healthcare infrastructure and greater access to treatments. Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions among key players are accelerating product innovation and expanding therapeutic options.

Moreover, increased healthcare policies focused on chronic respiratory disease and public awareness campaigns are encouraging early intervention and patient compliance, are further driving growth. Demand for non-invasive treatment options and therapies tailored for chronic conditions is also contributing to market expansion.

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), also known as diffuse parenchymal lung diseases, results from damage to the cells surrounding the alveoli (air sacs) leading to widespread inflammation and fibrotic scarring of the lungs. There are over 300 different conditions that are classed as interstitial lung diseases. Most are very rare, but the more common interstitial lung diseases include sarcoidosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, extrinsic allergic alveolitis (also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis), interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue disease, pneumoconiosis, and interstitial lung disease caused by certain drugs used to treat other conditions. Some interstitial lung diseases, particularly sarcoidosis, also affect other organs in the body.

The aging global population is at an elevated risk for ILD, as age-related changes in lung tissue make adults more susceptible to fibrotic and inflammatory lung conditions. Environmental exposures, smoking, and occupational hazards — common among adults — are known risk factors that further increase ILD incidence in this group. As ILD primarily affects adults over 50 years, pharmaceutical companies focus on developing treatments tailored to this population. Also, many adults require continuous management of ILD through long-term therapies, rehabilitation, and sometimes oxygen support, driving demand for comprehensive treatment plans.

Essential diagnostic methods for interstitial lung disease include chest X-rays and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize lung structure. Common ILD findings on imaging are diffuse fine nodules, a reticulated or web-like pattern, or general opacity in lung fields. High-resolution CT scans are particularly useful, as these allow clinicians to distinguish between types of ILD by examining the patterns and distribution of lung opacity. Lung function tests and blood oxygen measurements are also essential for diagnosing and monitoring ILD progression. In some cases, a surgical lung biopsy may be performed to obtain lung tissue samples for detailed examination. However, the need for biopsies has decreased as CT imaging quality has significantly improved.

Treatment options for ILD commonly include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, and anti-fibrotic medications. These treatments tend to be most effective for conditions like sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and some rare ILD subtypes, though they may have limited effectiveness in progressive forms like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). For advanced stages, oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation may be necessary, and lung transplantation is sometimes considered.

Palliative care may be offered to support individuals and their families, focusing on comfort rather than curative treatment. Palliative care helps manage pain, alleviate emotional distress, and provides social and spiritual support, often reducing hospital visits and enhancing quality of life for those with advanced disease.

Top Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Drivers and Trends:

• Rising Prevalence of Chronic ILD Conditions: Increasing incidence of chronic ILD conditions, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other fibrotic lung diseases, often associated with aging populations and environmental factors, is a key factor driving demand for ILD treatments worldwide. This is resulting in expansion of patient population and creating a continuous need for effective, long-term treatment options. With rising awareness regarding the new and effective treatments available for ILD, market growth can be expected to incline over the forecast period.
• Technological Advancements in Diagnostics and Treatment: The development of high-resolution CT scans, advanced lung function tests, and blood oxygen monitoring technologies has improved ILD diagnosis accuracy and early detection rates. These advancements enable clinicians to identify specific ILD subtypes earlier, allowing for timely intervention. The rise in targeted therapies, including antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory drugs, addresses varied ILD conditions more precisely, and these advances are further boosting demand for ILD treatments.
• Increased Research and Development Initiatives: Major pharmaceutical companies are investing significantly in R&D for innovative ILD therapies, focusing on new drugs and biologics that reduce disease progression and improve patient outcomes. These R&D efforts are supported by regulatory bodies that prioritize approvals for chronic respiratory disease treatments, thereby accelerating the availability of new solutions and creating opportunities for revenue expansion.
• Expanding Access and Awareness in Emerging Markets: Regions such as Asia Pacific and Latin America are witnessing increased access to ILD treatments due to growing healthcare infrastructure, government health initiatives, and public awareness campaigns. As awareness of ILD conditions rises, more patients are seeking diagnosis and treatment in countries in these regions, and this is contributing to market growth.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Restraining Factor Insights

• High Cost of ILD Treatments: Many ILD treatments, particularly antifibrotic drugs like nintedanib and pirfenidone, are costly, creating a barrier for wider adoption. These high costs limit accessibility for patients, especially in low-income and emerging markets where healthcare funding may be insufficient. Also, long-term treatment expenses can be a financial burden, leading to non-compliance or discontinuation among patients unable to sustain ongoing costs.
• Limited Efficacy and Side Effects: Despite advancements, many ILD treatments have limited efficacy across diverse ILD types and may not significantly slow disease progression in severe cases. Common side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues and liver function complications, can deter patient adherence and complicate treatment protocols. Research and development challenges persist as pharmaceutical companies face challenges to develop therapies that are both highly effective and tolerable for a broad spectrum of ILD patients.
• Complexity in Diagnosis and Late Detection: Diagnosing ILD accurately is challenging, often requiring advanced imaging and invasive procedures like lung biopsies. Misdiagnosis or delays in diagnosis are common, leading to missed or delayed treatment opportunities. Late detection of ILD limits the effectiveness of available therapies and a number of patients may be too advanced in their disease stage to benefit fully from current treatments. These diagnostic challenges can contribute to growth potential for ILD therapies.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Opportunities

• Development of Targeted and Personalized Therapies: Companies can capitalize on the rising demand for targeted ILD therapies, especially for complex types like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. With advancements in precision medicine, developing therapies tailored to specific ILD subtypes or genetic markers can improve treatment efficacy and meet needs of a larger patient base. This approach not only addresses unmet needs, but also commands premium pricing due to its targeted nature.
• Strategic Market Expansion in Emerging Regions: Expanding into high-growth regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America presents lucrative opportunities for companies operating in the larger market. Rising number of ILD cases alongside improving healthcare infrastructure and government healthcare investments are key indications to capitalize on. By forming partnerships with local distributors or engaging in mergers and acquisitions, companies can enhance their presence and create new revenue streams in these regions, where demand for accessible ILD treatments is increasing.
• Collaborative Research and Development and Licensing Agreements: Engaging in collaborative R&D and licensing agreements with research institutions and biotech firms can accelerate innovation in ILD treatments. Such collaborations reduce costs, pool expertise, and speed up the development of promising therapies, allowing companies to expand their product portfolios with cutting-edge treatments more efficiently.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Segmentation:

By Disease Type:

• Interstitial Pneumonia
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonitis
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
• Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia
• Acute Interstitial Pneumonitis
• Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonitis

By Diagnosis:

• Biopsy
• Bronchoscopy
• Lung Function Test
• Blood Test
• X-ray
• CT Scan
• Others

By Treatment:

• Antibiotics
• Corticosteroids
• Lung Transplant
• Cytotoxic Drugs
• Antifibrotics
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Oxygen Therapy
• Others

By Dosage Form:

• Tablet
• Injection
• Others

By Route of Administration:

• Oral
• Intravenous
• Others

By Distribution Channel:

• Hospital Pharmacy
• Retail Pharmacy
• Online Pharmacy

By End-Users:

• Clinics
• Hospitals
• Others

Segment Insights:

By Disease Type:

The Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) segment is expected to register fastest revenue growth rate and account for largest revenue share among the disease type segments in the ILD treatment market over the forecast period. Key factors supporting this projection include high prevalence of IPF, which is one of the most common and severe forms of interstitial lung disease. IPF is characterized by progressive fibrosis that leads to irreversible lung damage, resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates. As a chronic and often life-threatening disease, IPF requires ongoing, intensive treatment, making it a significant area of revenue generation. Advancements in antifibrotic therapies have been pivotal, with drugs like nintedanib and pirfenidone showing efficacy in slowing disease progression. Also, IPF is a primary focus of both pharmaceutical research and regulatory bodies, leading to accelerated drug approvals and more targeted treatments. Rising awareness and increased diagnostic rates owing to the trend towards early diagnosis are also contributing to growth of this segment.

By Diagnosis:

The CT scan segment is expected to account for largest revenue share among the diagnosis segments over the forecast period. This can be attributed primarily to accuracy CT scans offer in identifying interstitial abnormalities early and differentiating ILD types. Unlike X-rays, CT scans provide high-resolution images that are crucial for determining the severity and progression of lung diseases. As ILD cases become more complex, especially with varying presentations across subtypes, the demand for high-precision imaging like CT scans has increased. In addition, technological advancements in CT imaging, such as lower radiation techniques and AI-driven analytics, are improving diagnostic efficiency, and further driving adoption in hospital and clinic settings.

By Treatment:

The antifibrotics segment is expected to account for largest revenue share among the treatment segments over the forecast period. Antifibrotic drugs, like pirfenidone and nintedanib, are clinically proven to slow down the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, one of the most severe forms of ILD. Increasing prevalence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other fibrotic conditions is driving demand, as antifibrotics can improve life expectancy and quality of life for patients. Furthermore, increasingly stringent regulatory approvals and inclining research funding focused on IPF are contributing to broader adoption of antifibrotic therapies. Pharmaceutical companies are actively investing in new antifibrotic drugs and treatment regimens, which is also further expected to drive growth of this segment.

By Dosage Form:

The tablet segment among the form segments is projected to dominate in terms of revenue share as this form is widely preferred owing to easy and convenient administration route, especially for chronic conditions like ILD that require long-term management. As antifibrotics and other therapies are often available in oral tablet form, patient compliance tends to be higher. In addition, tablets reduce the need for hospital visits for injections, which is particularly beneficial in regions with limited healthcare access. Moreover, stability, extended shelf life, and ease of mass production make tablets more affordable and widely distributed.

By Route of Administration:

The oral segment is expected to maintain a lead in terms of revenue share among the route of administration segments over the forecast period. Non-invasive oral therapies and ease of self-administration of medications essential for chronic treatments and enhanced compliance, especially for antifibrotics and corticosteroids, are key factors driving growth of this segment. Also, development of oral antifibrotic therapies has expanded access to effective ILD treatments without requiring intravenous administration, which can be both time-consuming and resource-intensive. As a result, the oral route of administration aligns well with the needs of both healthcare providers and patients.

By Distribution Channel:

The hospital pharmacies segment is expected to continue to account for largest revenue share among the distribution segments over the forecast period. Hospitals are the primary points for initial diagnosis and treatment of ILD, and patients often rely on hospital pharmacies for immediate access to prescribed medications, particularly following inpatient and outpatient visits. Also, hospital pharmacies stock a broader range of specialized drugs, including antifibrotics and corticosteroids, which are essential for ILD management. The hospital setting also provides an environment where patients can receive thorough guidance on medication use, helping to ensure compliance. Moreover, strong partnerships between pharmaceutical companies and hospitals enhance the availability of high-cost ILD medications in hospital pharmacies.

‹›

Report Coverage & Deliverables

PDF report & online dashboard will help you understand:

• Real-Time Data Updates:
• Competitor Benchmarking
• Market Trends Heatmap
• Custom Research Queries
• Market Sentiment Analysis
• Demographic and Geographic Insights

Book Demo

Get Access Now

Track market trends LIVE & outsmart rivals with our Premium Data Intel Tool: Vantage Point

By End-Users:

The hospitals segment among the end-user segments is expected to continue to maintain dominance in terms of revenue share over the forecast period. Availability of comprehensive facilities for both diagnosis and treatment of ILD, specialized departments for respiratory diseases, and availability and use of advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans, biopsies, and bronchoscopy, makes hospitals the preferred choice for initial diagnosis and critical interventions. In addition, hospitals often house multidisciplinary teams necessary for managing complex ILD cases, including pulmonologists, radiologists, and respiratory therapists. Increased hospital admissions for ILD, especially in severe cases requiring intensive care, is also contributing to growth of this segment.

Regions and Countries

North America

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico

Europe

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India

Rest of Asia Pacific

• Latin America
• Brazil
• Argentina

Rest of Latin America

• Middle East & Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• Israel
• Rest of MEA

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Regional Landscape:

Among the regional markets in 2023, the North America Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market led in terms of revenue contribution to the global market. This is supported to a major extent by revenue share from the US, driven by high prevalence rates of ILDs, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and significant investment in pharmaceutical R&D. Major companies such as Boehringer Ingelheim and Genentech (Roche) are headquartered or have strong operations in the region, offering antifibrotic therapies such as nintedanib and pirfenidone, which supports demand. Also, support from the US government for ILD research through agencies like the NIH, facilitates advancements and early diagnosis.

In Europe, Germany and France are key markets, driven by robust healthcare systems and increasing awareness of ILD. Pharmaceutical companies operating in the regional market, such as Sanofi and AstraZeneca, are active in developing treatments, benefiting from favorable healthcare policies. Government-funded healthcare in these countries ensures broader patient access to costly ILD treatments, and this also supports growth of the market in the region.

In Asia Pacific, Japan and China are registering rapid revenue growth driven by high prevalence of ILD, as a result of high pollution levels and aging populations. Also, increasing government healthcare investments to improve access to diagnostics and therapies are contributing to growth of the market. Presence of major companies in Japan such as Shionogi and Nippon Shinyaku, which are expanding their ILD treatment portfolios, are also key factors supporting market growth.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment Market Competitive Landscape:

Company List:

• Boehringer Ingelheim
• Hoffmann-La Roche (Roche)
• GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
• Bayer
• Novartis
• Sanofi
• Johnson & Johnson (Janssen)
• AstraZeneca
• Bellerophon Therapeutics
• Philips
• Siemens Healthineers
• Merck
• Theravance Biopharma
• GE Healthcare
• Fujirebio (Miraca)

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape in the global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market is characterized by intense rivalry among major pharmaceutical companies, primarily driven by the need for effective treatments in a high-morbidity disease area. Key players such as Boehringer Ingelheim, Roche, Sanofi, and Novartis are focusing on expanding their portfolios, especially in the antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory drug segments. To maintain their market positions and expand consumer base, companies are investing substantially in research and development to innovate new therapies that effectively address various ILD subtypes, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Engagement in collaborations and clinical trials and novel treatment approvals through partnerships with research institutions are strategies companies are adopting to strengthen their positions in the market. Partnerships and collaborations are also central strategies, allowing companies to combine resources and expertise for faster, more efficient product development. Strategic acquisitions of smaller companies or technology providers to acquire innovative therapies and enter niche markets more easily are also ongoing in the market.

Moreover, companies are adopting market expansion strategies, particularly in high-growth regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America, where ILD incidence is rising. Expanding regional operations, securing government approvals, and addressing region-specific health needs are also approaches companies are adopting to reach a broader patient base.

Recent Developments

• October 17, 2024: Boston University’s Center for Regenerative Medicine (CReM) and Boston Medical Center (BMC) announced a new partnership with global biopharma leader, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), to advance research on innovative models for studying and treating lung diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. This collaboration will leverage GSK’s resources and expertise to deepen the research team’s understanding of how defective lung epithelial cells, particularly alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells, contribute to disease onset and progression. The initiative aims to create a research platform that could significantly advance lung disease studies and improve drug development efforts, offering promising new pathways for treatment for those affected by these conditions.
• September 16, 2024: Boehringer Ingelheim announced that its FIBRONEER-IPF trial achieved its primary goal, demonstrating a significant difference in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) [mL] change from baseline at 52 weeks compared to placebo. FVC is a key indicator of lung function. Following these promising results, Boehringer Ingelheim plans to submit a new drug application for nerandomilast to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and regulatory bodies globally. The FDA previously granted nerandomilast Breakthrough Therapy Designation for IPF in 2022. Nerandomilast, an oral investigational inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B), is not yet approved, and its safety and efficacy remain under investigation. This drug is being evaluated through the FIBRONEER global program, which includes two Phase III trials—FIBRONEER-IPF for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients and FIBRONEER-ILD for individuals with Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis (PPF).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market size in 2024 and what is the projection for 2034?

A: The global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market size was calculated at USD 1.71 billion in 2024 and expected to reach USD 3.22 billion in 2034

Which regional market accounted for largest revenue share in 2023, and what is the expected trend over the forecast period?

A: North America is expected to account for largest revenue share in the global market over the forecast period.

Q: Which are the major companies are included in the global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market report?

A: Major companies in the market report are Boehringer Ingelheim, Hoffmann-La Roche (Roche), GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Bayer, Novartis, Sanofi, Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), AstraZeneca, Bellerophon Therapeutics, Philips, Siemens Healthineers, Merck, Theravance Biopharma, GE Healthcare, Fujirebio (Miraca).

Q: What is the projected revenue CAGR of the global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market over the forecast period?

A: The global Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.5% between 2025 and 2034.

Q: What are some key factors driving revenue growth of the Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Treatment market ?

A: Some key factors driving market revenue growths are rising ILD prevalence, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, aging populations, air pollution and environmental risk factors, rising awareness regarding the conditions and diseases, advancements in high-resolution diagnostic tools such as CT scans, improving early detection rates, and availability of advanced therapies, among others.