Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034
Description
The Japan topical pain relief market was valued at USD 515.65 Million in 2024, driven by the rising arthritis prevalence in the region. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.90% during the forecast period of 2025-2034, with the values likely to reach USD 831.97 Million by 2034.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Overview
Topical pain relief involves the application of creams, gels, or patches directly to the skin to relieve localized pain, offering targeted treatment with minimal systemic effects. It is widely used for conditions such as arthritis, muscle aches, and minor injuries. In Japan, the topical pain relief market is growing steadily, supported by an aging population, rising musculoskeletal conditions, and a strong preference for non-invasive therapies.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Growth Drivers
Rising Rheumatoid Arthritis Prevalence to Support the Market Expansion
The increasing incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is significantly driving the growth of the topical pain relief market in Japan. In March 2024, a health report revealed that the estimated prevalence of RA in Japan is approximately 825,000 people, accounting for nearly 0.65% of the population. This rising patient base is expected to boost demand for effective topical therapies, supporting market expansion.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Trends
The market is witnessing several trends and developments to improve the current scenario. Some of the notable trends are as follows:
Expansion of Japanese Healthcare Brands Set to Impact Market Dynamics
A key trend in the market is the global expansion of Japanese healthcare brands to emerging markets. In April 2025, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. introduced its flagship product, Salonpas, a pain management solution in Nigeria, highlighting its international growth strategy. This move strengthens brand visibility worldwide, likely boosting Japan topical pain relief market growth and competitive position.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Segmentation
The market report offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Drug Class
Segmentation Based on Drug Class Holds a High Market Value
Based on the drug class, the market is divided into opioids and non-opioids. Non-opioid topical pain relief products are expected to lead the market, driven by growing concerns over opioid misuse and increasing preference for safer, non-addictive alternatives. These products offer effective pain management with reduced risk, appealing to a broader consumer base.
The Creams and Ointments Segments to Propel Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Growth
The market is segmented into creams and ointments, gels, liquid/oil, patches, sprays, and other formulations. Creams and ointments are expected to dominate the market due to their versatility, ease of application, and effectiveness in delivering localized pain relief. These formulations are preferred for various pain conditions and have a well-established consumer base.
The Tubes Packaging Type Segmentation to Lead the Market
The market, based on the packaging type, is categorized into tubes, containers and jars, aerosol containers, dermal patches, and roll-on bottles. Tubes are anticipated to lead the market, as they are convenient, portable, and easy to use for both consumers and healthcare professionals. Their ability to provide accurate doses and hygienic application enhances their popularity.
Segmentation by Distribution Channel to Shape the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market
Hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, online pharmacies, and others together make up the distribution channel. Online pharmacies are expected to lead the market, driven by the growing trend of e-commerce and the convenience of home delivery. This channel is gaining traction due to its accessibility, competitive pricing, and ease of purchasing.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Analysis by Region
The topical pain relief market in Japan shows regional variation, with the largest demand concentrated in urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka due to higher health awareness and access to healthcare. Rural regions exhibit steady growth, driven by the aging population and increasing preference for convenient, non-invasive pain management. Regional differences highlight varying healthcare accessibility and local preferences for topical treatments.
Leading Players in the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market
The key features of the market report comprise patent analysis, grant analysis, funding and investment analysis, and strategic initiatives by the leading players. The major companies in the market are as follows:
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Osaka, Japan, was established in 1886. The company is actively involved in the topical pain relief market with products like Ammeltz, a topical anti-inflammatory pain reliever, and disposable body warmers used for soothing aches and pains. Kobayashi continually innovates to meet the growing demand for localized, non-invasive pain management solutions.
Haleon Group
Haleon Group was established in 2019 and is headquartered in Weybridge, United Kingdom. In the topical pain relief market, Haleon is active through leading brands like Voltaren, a widely recognized anti-inflammatory gel. The company’s strong focus on science-based, consumer-trusted products reinforces its growing role in addressing localized pain management needs.
Bayer AG
Bayer AG is actively involved in the topical pain relief market. It is headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany, and was established in 1863. Its products, including AleveX topical solutions and Aspirin, address minor arthritis, back, and neck pain. Bayer’s focus on innovative, non-invasive pain relief solutions aligns with Japan's growing demand for effective and accessible topical treatments.
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc.
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc., established in 1847 and headquartered in Tosu, Japan, is a leading player in the Japan topical pain relief market. Its flagship product, Salonpas, a topical analgesic patch, is recognized globally, with a significant market share. Hisamitsu also offers a variety of over-the-counter pain relief products like Nobinobi Salonsip and Air Salonpas, as well as prescription transdermal analgesics, enhancing its presence in both local and international markets.
Other key players in the market include Johnson & Johnson Services Inc., Pfizer Inc., Sanofi, Reckitt Benckiser Group, Novartis AG, and Taiho Pharma.
Key Questions Answered in the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Report
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Overview
Topical pain relief involves the application of creams, gels, or patches directly to the skin to relieve localized pain, offering targeted treatment with minimal systemic effects. It is widely used for conditions such as arthritis, muscle aches, and minor injuries. In Japan, the topical pain relief market is growing steadily, supported by an aging population, rising musculoskeletal conditions, and a strong preference for non-invasive therapies.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Growth Drivers
Rising Rheumatoid Arthritis Prevalence to Support the Market Expansion
The increasing incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is significantly driving the growth of the topical pain relief market in Japan. In March 2024, a health report revealed that the estimated prevalence of RA in Japan is approximately 825,000 people, accounting for nearly 0.65% of the population. This rising patient base is expected to boost demand for effective topical therapies, supporting market expansion.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Trends
The market is witnessing several trends and developments to improve the current scenario. Some of the notable trends are as follows:
Expansion of Japanese Healthcare Brands Set to Impact Market Dynamics
A key trend in the market is the global expansion of Japanese healthcare brands to emerging markets. In April 2025, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. introduced its flagship product, Salonpas, a pain management solution in Nigeria, highlighting its international growth strategy. This move strengthens brand visibility worldwide, likely boosting Japan topical pain relief market growth and competitive position.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Segmentation
The market report offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Drug Class
- Opioids
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
- Morphine
- Fentanyl
- Others
- Non-opioids
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Diclofenac
- Acetaminophen
- Lidocaine
- Capsaicin
- Corticosteroids
- Prednisone
- Dexamethasone
- Others
- Creams and Ointments
- Gel
- Liquid/Oil
- Patch
- Sprays
- Others
- Tubes
- Containers & Jars
- Aerosol Containers
- Dermal Patches
- Roll On Bottles
- Hospital Pharmacies
- Retail Pharmacies
- Online Pharmacies
- Others
Segmentation Based on Drug Class Holds a High Market Value
Based on the drug class, the market is divided into opioids and non-opioids. Non-opioid topical pain relief products are expected to lead the market, driven by growing concerns over opioid misuse and increasing preference for safer, non-addictive alternatives. These products offer effective pain management with reduced risk, appealing to a broader consumer base.
The Creams and Ointments Segments to Propel Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Growth
The market is segmented into creams and ointments, gels, liquid/oil, patches, sprays, and other formulations. Creams and ointments are expected to dominate the market due to their versatility, ease of application, and effectiveness in delivering localized pain relief. These formulations are preferred for various pain conditions and have a well-established consumer base.
The Tubes Packaging Type Segmentation to Lead the Market
The market, based on the packaging type, is categorized into tubes, containers and jars, aerosol containers, dermal patches, and roll-on bottles. Tubes are anticipated to lead the market, as they are convenient, portable, and easy to use for both consumers and healthcare professionals. Their ability to provide accurate doses and hygienic application enhances their popularity.
Segmentation by Distribution Channel to Shape the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market
Hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, online pharmacies, and others together make up the distribution channel. Online pharmacies are expected to lead the market, driven by the growing trend of e-commerce and the convenience of home delivery. This channel is gaining traction due to its accessibility, competitive pricing, and ease of purchasing.
Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Analysis by Region
The topical pain relief market in Japan shows regional variation, with the largest demand concentrated in urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka due to higher health awareness and access to healthcare. Rural regions exhibit steady growth, driven by the aging population and increasing preference for convenient, non-invasive pain management. Regional differences highlight varying healthcare accessibility and local preferences for topical treatments.
Leading Players in the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market
The key features of the market report comprise patent analysis, grant analysis, funding and investment analysis, and strategic initiatives by the leading players. The major companies in the market are as follows:
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Osaka, Japan, was established in 1886. The company is actively involved in the topical pain relief market with products like Ammeltz, a topical anti-inflammatory pain reliever, and disposable body warmers used for soothing aches and pains. Kobayashi continually innovates to meet the growing demand for localized, non-invasive pain management solutions.
Haleon Group
Haleon Group was established in 2019 and is headquartered in Weybridge, United Kingdom. In the topical pain relief market, Haleon is active through leading brands like Voltaren, a widely recognized anti-inflammatory gel. The company’s strong focus on science-based, consumer-trusted products reinforces its growing role in addressing localized pain management needs.
Bayer AG
Bayer AG is actively involved in the topical pain relief market. It is headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany, and was established in 1863. Its products, including AleveX topical solutions and Aspirin, address minor arthritis, back, and neck pain. Bayer’s focus on innovative, non-invasive pain relief solutions aligns with Japan's growing demand for effective and accessible topical treatments.
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc.
Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc., established in 1847 and headquartered in Tosu, Japan, is a leading player in the Japan topical pain relief market. Its flagship product, Salonpas, a topical analgesic patch, is recognized globally, with a significant market share. Hisamitsu also offers a variety of over-the-counter pain relief products like Nobinobi Salonsip and Air Salonpas, as well as prescription transdermal analgesics, enhancing its presence in both local and international markets.
Other key players in the market include Johnson & Johnson Services Inc., Pfizer Inc., Sanofi, Reckitt Benckiser Group, Novartis AG, and Taiho Pharma.
Key Questions Answered in the Japan Topical Pain Relief Market Report
- What was the India topical pain relief market value in 2024?
- What is the India topical pain relief market forecast outlook for 2025-2034?
- What is the market segmentation based on drug class?
- What is the market breakup based on the formulation?
- How is the market segmented based on packaging type?
- How is the market divided based on the distribution channel?
- What major factors aid the demand for the India topical pain relief market?
- How has the market performed so far, and how is it anticipated to perform in the coming years?
- What are the market's major drivers, opportunities, and restraints?
- What are the major India topical pain relief market trends?
- Which drug class is expected to dominate the market segment?
- Which formulation is projected to lead the market segment?
- Which packaging type is anticipated to drive the market segment?
- Which distribution channel is likely to dominate the market segment?
- Who are the key players in the India topical pain relief market?
- What is the patent landscape of the market?
- What are the current unmet needs and challenges in the market?
- How are partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions among the key market players shaping the market dynamics?
Table of Contents
250 Pages
- 1 Preface
- 1.1 Objectives of the Study
- 1.2 Key Assumptions
- 1.3 Report Coverage – Key Segmentation and Scope
- 1.4 Research Methodology
- 2 Executive Summary
- 3 Topical Pain Relief Market Overview – 8 Major Markets
- 3.1 Topical Pain Relief Market Historical Value (2018-2024)
- 3.2 Topical Pain Relief Market Forecast Value (2025-2034)
- 4 Vendor Positioning Analysis
- 4.1 Key Vendors
- 4.2 Prospective Leaders
- 4.3 Niche Leaders
- 4.4 Disruptors
- 5 Topical Pain Relief Market: Disease Overview
- 5.1 Guidelines and Stages
- 5.2 Pathophysiology
- 5.3 Screening and Diagnosis
- 5.4 Treatment Pathway
- 6 Patient Profile
- 6.1 Patient Profile Overview
- 6.2 Patient Psychology and Emotional Impact Factors
- 6.3 Risk Assessment and Treatment Success Rate
- 7 Topical Pain Relief Market - Epidemiology Scenario and Forecast – 8 Major Markets
- 7.1 Japan Epidemiology Scenario Overview (2018-2034)
- 7.2 Prevalence, by Country
- 7.3 Diagnosed Cases, by Country
- 7.4 Treatment Seeking Rate, by Country
- 8 Topical Pain Relief Market Landscape – 8 Major Markets
- 8.1 Topical Pain Relief Market: Developers Landscape
- 8.1.1 Analysis by Year of Establishment
- 8.1.2 Analysis by Company Size
- 8.1.3 Analysis by Region
- 8.2 Topical Pain Relief Market: Product Landscape
- 8.2.1 Analysis by Drug Class
- 8.2.2 Analysis by Formulation
- 8.2.3 Analysis by Packaging Type
- 9 Clinical Trials and Pipeline Analysis
- 9.1 Analysis by Trial Registration Year
- 9.2 Analysis by Trial Status
- 9.3 Analysis by Trial Phase
- 9.4 Analysis by Therapeutic Area
- 9.5 Analysis by Geography
- 9.6 Drug Pipeline Analysis
- 10 Topical Pain Relief Market Challenges and Unmet Needs
- 10.1 Treatment Pathway Challenges
- 10.2 Compliance and Drop-Out Analysis
- 10.3 Awareness and Prevention Gaps
- 11 Cost of Treatment
- 12 Topical Pain Relief Market Dynamics
- 12.1 Market Drivers and Constraints
- 12.2 SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.1 Strengths
- 12.2.2 Weaknesses
- 12.2.3 Opportunities
- 12.2.4 Threats
- 12.3 PESTEL Analysis
- 12.3.1 Political
- 12.3.2 Economic
- 12.3.3 Social
- 12.3.4 Technological
- 12.3.5 Legal
- 12.3.6 Environment
- 12.4 Porter’s Five Forces Model
- 12.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 12.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 12.4.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 12.4.4 Threat of Substitutes
- 12.4.5 Degree of Rivalry
- 12.5 Key Demand Indicators
- 12.6 Key Price Indicators
- 12.7 Industry Events, Initiatives, and Trends
- 12.8 Value Chain Analysis
- 13 Japan Topical Pain Relief Market (218-2034)
- 13.1 Japan Topical Pain Relief Market (2018-2034) by Drug Class
- 13.1.1 Market Overview
- 13.1.2 Opioids
- 13.1.2.1 Hydrocodone
- 13.1.2.2 Oxycodone
- 13.1.2.3 Morphine
- 13.1.2.4 Fentanyl
- 13.1.2.5 Others
- 13.1.3 Non-opioids
- 13.1.3.1 Ibuprofen
- 13.1.3.2 Naproxen
- 13.1.3.3 Diclofenac
- 13.1.3.4 Acetaminophen
- 13.1.3.5 Lidocaine
- 13.1.3.6 Capsaicin
- 13.1.3.7 Corticosteroids
- 13.1.3.8 Prednisone
- 13.1.3.9 Dexamethasone
- 13.1.3.10 Others
- 13.2 Japan Topical Pain Relief Market (2018-2034) by Formulation
- 13.2.1 Market Overview
- 13.2.2 Creams and Ointments
- 13.2.3 Gels
- 13.2.4 Liquid/Oil
- 13.2.5 Patch
- 13.2.6 Sprays
- 13.2.7 Others
- 13.3 Japan Topical Pain Relief Market (2018-2034) by Packaging Type
- 13.3.1 Market Overview
- 13.3.2 Tubes
- 13.3.3 Containers & Jars
- 13.3.4 Aerosol Containers
- 13.3.5 Dermal Patches
- 13.3.6 Roll On Bottles
- 13.4 Japan Topical Pain Relief Market (2018-2034) by Distribution Channel
- 13.4.1 Market Overview
- 13.4.2 Hospital Pharmacies
- 13.4.3 Retail Pharmacies
- 13.4.4 Online Pharmacies
- 13.4.5 Others
- 14 Regulatory Framework
- 15 Patent Analysis
- 15.1 Analysis by Type of Patent
- 15.2 Analysis by Publication Year
- 15.3 Analysis by Issuing Authority
- 15.4 Analysis by Patent Age
- 15.5 Analysis by CPC Analysis
- 15.6 Analysis by Patent Valuation
- 16 Grants Analysis
- 16.1 Analysis by Year
- 16.2 Analysis by Amount Awarded
- 16.3 Analysis by Issuing Authority
- 16.4 Analysis by Grant Application
- 16.5 Analysis by Funding Institute
- 16.6 Analysis by NIH Departments
- 16.7 Analysis by Recipient Organization
- 17 Funding and Investment Analysis
- 17.1 Analysis by Funding Instances
- 17.2 Analysis by Type of Funding
- 17.3 Analysis by Funding Amount
- 17.4 Analysis by Leading Players
- 17.5 Analysis by Leading Investors
- 17.6 Analysis by Geography
- 18 Strategic Initiatives
- 18.1 Analysis by Partnership Instances
- 18.2 Analysis by Type of Partnership
- 18.3 Analysis by Leading Players
- 18.4 Analysis by Geography
- 19 Supplier Landscape
- 19.1 Market Share Analysis, By Country (Top 5 Companies)
- 19.2 Johnson & Johnson Services Inc.
- 19.2.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.2.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.2.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.2.4 Company News and Development
- 19.2.5 Certifications
- 19.3 Kobayashi Pharmaceutical
- 19.3.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.3.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.3.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.3.4 Company News and Development
- 19.3.5 Certifications
- 19.4 Pfizer Inc.
- 19.4.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.4.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.4.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.4.4 Company News and Development
- 19.4.5 Certifications
- 19.5 Sanofi
- 19.5.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.5.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.5.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.5.4 Company News and Development
- 19.5.5 Certifications
- 19.6 Reckitt Benckiser Group
- 19.6.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.6.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.6.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.6.4 Company News and Development
- 19.6.5 Certifications
- 19.7 Haleon Group
- 19.7.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.7.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.7.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.7.4 Company News and Development
- 19.7.5 Certifications
- 19.8 Bayer AG
- 19.8.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.8.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.8.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.8.4 Company News and Development
- 19.8.5 Certifications
- 19.9 Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co.,Inc.
- 19.9.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.9.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.9.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.9.4 Company News and Development
- 19.9.5 Certifications
- 19.10 Novartis AG
- 19.10.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.10.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.10.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.10.4 Company News and Development
- 19.10.5 Certifications
- 19.11 TAIHO PHARMA
- 19.11.1 Financial Analysis
- 19.11.2 Product Portfolio
- 19.11.3 Demographic Reach and Achievements
- 19.11.4 Company News and Development
- 19.11.5 Certifications
- 20 Topical Pain Relief Market - Distribution Model (Additional Insight)
- 20.1 Overview
- 20.2 Potential Distributors
- 20.3 Key Parameters for Distribution Partner Assessment
- 21 Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) Insights (Additional Insight)
- 22 Payment Methods (Additional Insight)
- 22.1 Government Funded
- 22.2 Private Insurance
- 22.3 Out-of-Pocket
Pricing
Currency Rates
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