US allergy market affecting the daily life of millions of Americans

Retail value sales within the US allergy market increased by 6% through 2011, to reach a market value of US$7.2 billion in 2012.

Allergy is a widespread and growing health problem in almost all countries worldwide, and shows no signs that the number of sufferers would decrease or even stabilise in the coming years.

It ranks among the most major chronic diseases in the US, affecting daily life of millions of Americans.

Factors causing allergies could be environmental or genetic, though cosmetics, jewellery and other substances also can cause allergic reactions. The most common environmental allergens include dust, pollen, mould, pet dander and insect bites, and well as certain foods and drugs.

While sales of allergy drugs are growing, the market is also simultaneously witnessing demand increase for alternative medication, as more and more people are showing preference for alternative therapies for the treatment of their allergies.

Though, complementary therapies are usually less effective in comparison to conventional medication, certain compounds show beneficial effects in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Claritin/Clarinex of Schering-Plough and Zyrtec of McNeil Consumer Healthcare are the leading, most prescribed allergy drugs in the US. Antihistamines represent the most widely prescribed anti-allergy products, followed by corticosteroids.

The market for antihistamine drugs is particularly strong owing to the increased levels of effectiveness provided by these medicines when used in combination with a decongestant, as well as the non-sedating quality of antihistamines.

Looking ahead, the potential consumer market should continue to grow. Over time, the allergy season has continually grown longer due to climate change and increasing levels of pollution.

In 2011, for instance, the National Academy of Sciences projected the allergy season to last 27 days longer than usual in northern parts of the country. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology also reports that the warming climate is leading to earlier thaws and an extended pollen season, which negatively affect sufferers.

All of these factors should contribute to heightened demand for allergy remedies through to 2016.

For more information on the US allergy market, see the latest research: US Allergy Market

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