Executive Summary of the 2025 Global Drug Delivery System Trends Report

The drug delivery systems (DDS) market is undergoing structural transformation, driven by the rapid expansion of biologics, intensified competition in GLP-1s and biosimilars, and the growing demand for patient-centric and sustainable solutions. Devices are no longer viewed simply as delivery tools; they are becoming platforms for differentiation, real-world evidence generation, and healthcare system efficiency. This report provides an in-depth review of the trends driving DDS growth, the strategic shifts shaping how companies approach delivery systems, and the evolving role of contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) across the drug–device value chain.

Market Drivers and Pharma Shifts 

The surge in drug development is reshaping delivery needs. Between 2020 and 2025, oncology dominated global clinical development with close to 20% of pipeline products, while the expanding biologics pipeline and rising prevalence of chronic conditions are driving demand for scalable, patient-friendly delivery formats. Competition in fast-moving therapeutic areas such as obesity and autoimmune diseases is also pushing pharmaceutical companies to prioritize speed-to-market and differentiation. Delivery devices are shifting from support functions to strategic enablers of market access and brand positioning.

Drug Delivery Systems Trends

Digitalization is moving beyond pilots, with connected devices enabling adherence monitoring and data integration, while sustainability and patient centricity have become critical design requirements shaping procurement and regulatory decisions. A platform-based approach to autoinjectors is also gaining ground over bespoke development, as pharma companies seek faster, more cost-efficient pathways with reduced regulatory risk. Another change is that large volume subcutaneous delivery is emerging as a disruptive model. In 2024, about 15% of approved or clinical-stage intravenous and subcutaneous biologics fall into this category, with nearly half (44%) in the 2–5 mL range, highlighting the ongoing shift of high-dose biologics from infusion centers to outpatient and home care.

Supply Chain Transformation and CDMO Integration

Pharma and biotech companies increasingly rely on CDMOs for integrated, end-to-end services that reduce fragmentation and shorten development timelines. CDMOs are accelerating investments in response to expanding upstream into design, automation, and digital manufacturing, while also extending downstream into drug product capabilities and fill-finish. Strategic acquisitions and partnerships are reinforcing this evolution, positioning CDMOs as key partners across the entire drug–device value chain.