FAST MELT TABLETS MARKET challenges and opportunities

Chronic diseases requiring life-long medication like diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, etc. are unfortunately on the rise. With advancing age, a majority of the global population will have to grapple with at least one such condition at some point. While medical science has developed excellent treatment options, consistent compliance with complex drug regimens can be challenging. Complex routines discourage medication adherence leading to compromised health. Fast melt tablets counter this by enhancing ease of use every time a dose is required. The comforting flavor and texture-less dissolve of fast melts improve palatability greatly compared to conventional tablets. For instance, according to data reported by Times of India in September 2024, India’s elderly population (60+) will reach 158.7 million (11.1% of the total) by 2025. Chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues are rising, affecting 21% of the elderly, with urban areas (29%) showing higher rates than rural (17%). Multi-morbidity impacts 23%, with prevalence increasing with age and women more affected. Among those aged 60-64, 28% suffer from hypertension.

Market Challenge - High manufacturing costs compared to conventional tablets

One of the major challenges faced by the global fast melt tablets market is the high manufacturing costs associated with producing these tablets as compared to conventional tablets. Fast melt tablets have smaller particle sizes and require advanced manufacturing processes such as lyophilization or spray drying to enable quick disintegration. These specialized manufacturing techniques are complex and require sophisticated equipment, thereby making the production process more expensive. Additionally, the inclusion of high levels of excipients such as lubricants, flavors, and sweeteners also contributes to increased costs. The smaller size of these tablets further raises production costs as more tablets need to be manufactured per batch to obtain the required dosage. Meeting the stringent quality specifications set by regulatory bodies also drives up compliance costs for manufacturers. The higher costs pose pricing challenges and restrict accessibility to such products, especially in cost-sensitive developing markets.

Market Opportunity - Growing demand for pediatric formulations

One major opportunity for the global fast melt tablets market is the growing demand for pediatric formulations. The disintegrating nature of fast melt tablets makes them ideal for pediatric and geriatric patients who have difficulty swallowing conventional tablets. Children and elderly patients find it easier and more convenient to consume these tablets. This is creating a huge opportunity for manufacturers to specially formulate fast melt tablets targeting the pediatric segment. In addition, with rising awareness about the importance of medication adherence, parents and caregivers are increasingly preferring fast melt tablets for children. Fast melt tablets also aid compliance for pediatric patients prescribed to take medications multiple times daily. Furthermore, pharmaceutical companies can leverage this and gain first-mover advantage by developing innovative flavors and designs to make these tablets more appealing to children.