The top U.S. pharmacy in 2024 by market share based on prescription drug revenue was CVS Health Corporation, followed by Walgreens Boots Alliance. CVS Health held over 25 percent of the prescription drug market revenue at that time. A significant increase in market share was reported for Cigna achieved through the acquisition of pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts in August 2018. Before that, Cigna was mainly active in the insurance business and related products and services. CVS pharmaciesThe CVS Health Corporation is a health service company with locations all over the United States, Puerto Rico and Brazil. CVS Health comprises pharmacies, clinics and retail locations. According to recent estimates the number of CVS pharmacies has increased dramatically since 2005, however, with a downward tendency since 2021.Pharmaceutical and pharmacy marketThe U.S. has the largest single share of global pharmaceutical market revenues. The total number of prescriptions dispensed in the U.S. has increased in the last years, reaching around 6.7 billion medical prescriptions in 2022. Prescription drug expenditures have been increasing in value, while the share related to total U.S. health expenditures has remained stable in recent years. On the other hand, the pharmacy market recently saw some significant changes, especially with the growing impact of online pharmacies (mail-order pharmacies) worldwide.

Mail-Order Pharmacy Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global mail-order pharmacy market size stood at USD 102.4 billion in 2024, with a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% anticipated from 2025 to 2033. This growth trajectory is expected to drive the market to a forecasted value of USD 202.3 billion by 2033. The primary growth factor fueling this expansion is the increasing consumer demand for convenient, contactless access to medications, coupled with technological advancements in e-pharmacy platforms and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases worldwide.

One of the most significant drivers of the mail-order pharmacy market is the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders. These conditions require long-term medication management, making the recurring delivery model of mail-order pharmacies highly attractive to patients. The convenience of home delivery, combined with the potential for cost savings through bulk purchasing and subscription models, has led to increased adoption among patients requiring ongoing medication regimens. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote healthcare services, reinforcing the importance of reliable mail-order pharmacy solutions for vulnerable populations and those with mobility challenges.

Another key factor propelling market growth is the integration of advanced digital technologies within mail-order pharmacy platforms. The proliferation of user-friendly mobile applications, automated prescription refills, and secure online payment systems has enhanced the customer experience, driving higher satisfaction and retention rates. Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence and data analytics for personalized medication management, adherence tracking, and targeted marketing campaigns has enabled mail-order pharmacies to offer tailored solutions to diverse patient populations. These technological advancements not only improve operational efficiency but also foster stronger relationships between pharmacies, healthcare providers, and patients.

Regulatory support and evolving reimbursement policies have also played a crucial role in the expansion of the mail-order pharmacy market. Governments and healthcare payers in various regions are increasingly recognizing the value proposition offered by mail-order pharmacies, particularly in terms of reducing overall healthcare costs and improving medication adherence. As a result, there has been a notable increase in insurance coverage and reimbursement for mail-order pharmacy services, further incentivizing both providers and patients to adopt this model. However, the market continues to face challenges related to regulatory compliance, data privacy, and the need for robust logistics infrastructure, especially in emerging markets.

From a regional perspective, North America currently dominates the mail-order pharmacy market, driven by high healthcare expenditure, widespread internet penetration, and a well-established regulatory framework. Europe follows closely, with increasing adoption of e-pharmacy services in countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a significant growth engine, fueled by rising healthcare awareness, expanding middle-class populations, and rapid digital transformation in countries like China and India. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, supported by improving healthcare infrastructure and increasing acceptance of online pharmacy services.

The rise of Cross-Border E-Pharmacy is also contributing to the growth of the mail-order pharmacy market. As globalization and digital connectivity increase, patients are now able to access medications from international pharmacies, broadening their options for treatment and cost savings. Cross-border e-pharmacies offer a wider range of products and competitive pricing, appealing to consumers looking for specific medications not available in their home countries. This trend is particularly significant in regions with limited access to certain drugs or where local prices are prohibitive. The ability to order medications across borders enhances patient choice and accessibility, further driving the adoption of e-pharmacy services globally.

The U.S. online pharmacy market size was valued at USD 52 billion and is expected to reach USD 146 billion in 2026. The prescription-based epharmacy market will likely observe an incremental growth of over USD 85 billion by 2026.

The revenue change in the online pharmacy segment of the digital health market in the United States was modeled to amount to ***** percent in 2024. Between 2018 and 2024, the revenue growth rose by **** percentage points, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend. The revenue growth is expected to drop by ***** percentage points between 2024 and 2029, showing a continuous downward movement throughout the period.Further information about the methodology, more market segments, and metrics can be found on the dedicated Market Insights page on Online Pharmacy.

Global online pharmacy market worth at USD 98.72 Billion in 2024, is expected to surpass USD 224.79 Billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 7.9% from 2025 to 2034.

Pharmacies and drug stores have endured moderate volatility in recent years. Retailers have benefited from a growing and aging population, as older consumers require medication to address chronic ailments, resulting in higher volumes of foot traffic. Similarly, the number of people with private insurance and public funding for Medicare and Medicaid has been on the rise, giving more people access to insurance and supporting demand for prescriptions, pharmacies' largest product segment. These trends, along with consumers increasingly prioritizing their health, have supported revenue gains, causing revenue to grow at an estimated CAGR of 1.1% to $609.6 billion through the end of 2025, including growth of 3.6% that year alone. Pharmacies have endured some challenges during this time, including heightened external competition from big-box stores and online-only pharmacies. With big-box stores offering consumers added convenience, pharmacies have expanded their services to offer some primary care services and grow delivery offerings. Many pharmacies and drug stores have invested in online platforms to service customers who prefer to shop online. The trend of online shopping will intensify in the coming years, and successful drugstores will be positioned to capitalize on the surge in demand. Pharmacies and drug stores have also focused on marketing personal care products, which often have higher prices, to capture additional revenue; however, unfavorable macroeconomic conditions directly harm these product lines because of their less-essential nature and higher access to substitutes. Pharmacies and drug stores will continue to benefit from the ongoing economic recovery, as cooling inflation encourages consumers to make more discretionary purchases like cosmetics and other personal care products. This growth will be fueled by the expansion of store services, including preventive care options and additional front-end offerings. As the number of insured individuals swells, many consumers will continue to fill their prescriptions because of the low out-of-pocket costs. As conditions for the industry improve, so will profit, rising along with revenue. Revenue is expected to climb at a CAGR of 2.6% to $692.0 billion through the end of 2030.

This statistic shows the largest U.S. mail/specialty pharmacies ranked by revenue-based prescription drugs market share in calendar years 2014 and 2024. CVS Health Corporation's Pharmacy Services was the second-largest U.S. pharmacy of that type based on market share, holding a **** percent share of total Rx drugs pharmacy revenues in 2024. That was an increase of some *** percent compared to 2014.

Online Pharmacy Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global online pharmacy market size reached USD 85.6 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust growth driven by digital transformation in healthcare delivery. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 15.2% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 270.3 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth is fueled by increasing internet penetration, rising consumer preference for contactless healthcare solutions, and the growing adoption of e-prescriptions worldwide.

One of the most significant growth factors for the online pharmacy market is the rapid digitalization of healthcare services, which has fundamentally transformed how consumers access medications. The proliferation of smartphones and high-speed internet connectivity has made it increasingly convenient for individuals to order prescription and over-the-counter drugs online. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the shift toward online pharmacies, as lockdowns and social distancing measures limited physical access to brick-and-mortar stores. This shift was not just a temporary trend but has now become a long-term behavioral change, with consumers valuing the privacy, convenience, and time savings offered by online platforms. The integration of telemedicine with online pharmacies has also enabled seamless consultation, prescription, and drug delivery processes, further driving market growth.

Another key driver is the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging global population, which has led to increased demand for regular medication. Online pharmacies offer a reliable solution for patients requiring ongoing medication management, particularly for those with mobility challenges or residing in remote areas. The ability to automate refills, access a wider range of products, and receive doorstep delivery has made online pharmacies indispensable for millions of patients. Furthermore, the rise of value-added services such as medication reminders, digital health records, and personalized health recommendations is enhancing user engagement and loyalty, making online pharmacies a critical component of modern healthcare ecosystems.

The online pharmacy market is also benefitting from evolving regulatory frameworks that are increasingly supportive of digital health initiatives. Governments and healthcare authorities across the globe are recognizing the potential of online pharmacies to improve access to medicines and reduce healthcare costs. In many regions, regulations are being updated to facilitate e-prescriptions, ensure drug authenticity, and enhance patient safety. At the same time, strategic collaborations between online pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies, and logistics providers are optimizing supply chains and expanding product offerings. The increasing investment from venture capitalists and private equity firms is further fueling innovation and market expansion, positioning online pharmacies as a vital pillar of the future healthcare landscape.

From a regional perspective, North America currently dominates the global online pharmacy market, accounting for the largest share due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high digital literacy, and favorable regulatory environment. Europe follows closely, supported by widespread adoption of e-health solutions and government initiatives promoting digital healthcare. The Asia Pacific region, however, is expected to register the fastest growth over the forecast period, driven by a rapidly expanding middle-class population, increasing smartphone penetration, and government efforts to improve healthcare access in rural areas. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, although challenges such as regulatory complexities and limited digital infrastructure persist in certain markets.

Product Type Analysis

The online pharmacy market is segmented by product type into Prescription Medicine, Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs, Wellness Supplements, and Others. Prescription medicines represent the largest segment, accounting for a significant portion of online pharmacy sales globally. The convenience of electronic prescriptions, coupled with the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions, has led to increased demand for prescription drugs through online platforms. Online pharmacies have developed robust verification systems to ensure the authenticity of prescriptions, fostering trus

This statistic depicts the total number of retail prescriptions filled annually in the United States from 2013 to 2025. It is estimated that in 2019, 4.38 billion retail prescriptions will be filled throughout the United States.U.S. Pharmacies and Drug Stores IndustryThe retail drug industry is comprised of pharmacies or drugstores, as they are known in North America. According to Statista estimates, which were calculated based on numbers presented by IBIS World, pharmacies and drugstores in the United States will generate a revenue of 257 billion U.S. dollars in 2014. With an aging population and greater prevalence of chronic diseases, the need for safe, legal pharmaceutical drugs is constantly rising.Pharmacies and drug stores dispense prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs directly to patients. However, their role is more than one of simple distribution as they dispense medication in specific doses, adhere to optimal conditions of storage and give valuable advice to patients. Pharmacies practice in a wide range of locations such as communities, hospitals, clinics and nursing homes. Other drug retail outlets include supermarkets, and independent and online pharmacies, which offer mail-order drugs to patients, proving especially convenient for those that may be unable to leave their homes. In 2016, CVS Health was the leading drug store chain in the United States, based on retail prescription sales, generating approximately 60.8 billion U.S. dollars. Apart from selling drugs, miscellaneous products also account for a percentage of sales for these retail outlets, such as cosmetics and confectioneries.The retail drug store industry employs many different types of workers. Each store has a manager, along with department managers or assistant managers to handle additional administrative duties. Sales associates are generally entry-level retail workers. Pharmacists require a specialized degree and licensing to dispense medication.

The U.S. Pharmacy Benefit Management Services is projected to be valued at $525 billion in 2024, driven by factors such as increasing consumer awareness and the rising prevalence of industry-specific trends. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8%, reaching approximately $900 billion by 2034.

US Online Pharmacy Market is projected to grow around USD 185 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 18.6% during the forecast period.

The Retail Pharmacy Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Prescription Medicines, Over-The-Counter Medicines, Health & Wellness/Personal Care Products, Medical Devices & Supplies), Pharmacy Format (Chain Pharmacies, Independent Pharmacies, Supermarket/Hypermarket In-Store Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies), and Geography (North America, Europe, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The revenue in the 'Online Pharmacy' segment of the digital health market worldwide was modeled to stand at ************* U.S. dollars in 2024. Between 2017 and 2024, the revenue rose by ************ U.S. dollars, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend. The revenue will steadily rise by ************* U.S. dollars over the period from 2024 to 2029, reflecting a clear upward trend.Further information about the methodology, more market segments, and metrics can be found on the dedicated Market Insights page on Online Pharmacy.

The global pharmaceutical e-commerce market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing internet penetration, rising smartphone usage, and a preference for convenient healthcare solutions. The market, estimated at $150 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $500 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Consumers are increasingly embracing online platforms for purchasing prescription and over-the-counter medications, drawn by the ease of access, price comparisons, and home delivery options. The convenience offered by e-pharmacies is particularly attractive to busy individuals and those in geographically remote areas. Furthermore, the integration of telehealth services with e-commerce platforms is enhancing the overall user experience and driving further market expansion. Technological advancements such as mobile apps and secure online payment systems are also crucial enablers of this growth. However, the market faces certain challenges. Regulatory hurdles vary across different regions, impacting market entry and operational efficiency. Concerns regarding data security and patient privacy also need to be addressed to maintain consumer trust. Competition from established pharmaceutical companies and traditional retail pharmacies is intense, necessitating innovative strategies for market penetration and differentiation. The segment for prescription medicines is expected to dominate the market due to higher average order values, but growth in the over-the-counter segment will also be significant driven by convenience and ease of access. Regional variations in market size reflect differing levels of technological adoption, healthcare infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks. North America and Europe are currently leading the market, but the Asia Pacific region shows significant potential for future growth given its large and rapidly expanding population.

The compounding pharmacy industry finds itself increasingly at the center of legal actions initiated by pharmaceutical manufacturers. These lawsuits primarily focus on intellectual property violations, where manufacturers accuse compounding pharmacies of stepping beyond their regulatory boundaries by reproducing commercially available drugs. This uptick in litigation corresponds with the rise in compounding practices over the last five years despite the stricter regulatory framework under Section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which stipulates the conditions under which compounded drugs do not require FDA approval. Despite the ongoing legal challenges, compounding pharmacies have embraced e-commerce to extend their reach beyond conventional geographic limitations. This shift has been catalyzed by the broader trend towards online healthcare solutions, accelerated by the pandemic and growing consumer demand for online services. Moreover, the aging US population, which often requires more personalized medication solutions for complex health conditions, has further fueled demand for compounded drugs. Overall, industry revenue is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% to reach $19.0 billion by 2024, including an expected 3.6% increase in 2024 alone. The continued demographic shift toward the older population is expected to necessitate more customized medications to meet the unique needs of older adults, which standard off-the-shelf drugs may not fulfill. Furthermore, the growth of e-commerce is poised to significantly influence the pharmaceutical industry. Online shopping offers convenience, which enhances patient satisfaction and drives the preference for pharmacies that provide easy online ordering and home delivery services. Technological advancements in pharmaceutical compounding will enhance the precision, efficiency and safety of the compounding process. Overall, industry revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% to reach $22.0 billion by 2029.

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ePharmacy Market Size 2025-2029

The epharmacy market size is forecast to increase by USD 148.5 billion, at a CAGR of 21.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth, driven by the increasing availability of high-speed internet services and the subsequent acceptance of online pharmacy services in various regions. This trend is particularly noticeable in newly regulated European states, where consumers are increasingly turning to ePharmacies for the convenience and accessibility they offer. However, the market also faces challenges, with the illegal and counterfeit trading of drugs through ePharmacy platforms posing a significant threat. As regulatory bodies work to combat this issue, ePharmacies must prioritize security measures and transparency to maintain consumer trust and adhere to evolving regulations. To capitalize on the market's potential, companies must focus on providing secure and reliable platforms, ensuring regulatory compliance, and offering competitive pricing and customer service. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the market's growth drivers, ePharmacies can effectively compete in the digital healthcare landscape and meet the evolving needs of consumers.

What will be the Size of the ePharmacy Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities shaping its landscape. Integral components include e-commerce solutions, big data analytics, virtual assistants, order fulfillment, prescription drugs, customer service, health literacy, marketing automation, and AI-powered diagnosis. These elements intertwine, creating a complex web of interconnected services. E-commerce solutions facilitate seamless transactions, while big data analytics enable personalized patient care and predictive modeling. Virtual assistants streamline customer interactions, and order fulfillment ensures timely prescription drug delivery. Prescription drugs remain the core offering, with health literacy initiatives enhancing patient understanding. Marketing automation and AI-powered diagnosis further refine patient care, while medication adherence tools and third-party payer integrations simplify the payment process. Data security measures safeguard sensitive patient information, and referral programs foster customer loyalty. Health monitoring through wearable sensors and telemedicine integration address disease prevention and chronic disease management. Supply chain management, inventory management, and quality control ensure efficient drug distribution. Machine learning and predictive modeling aid in drug discovery and clinical trials. Wellness programs, medication tracking, and insurance claims processing further enrich the ePharmacy experience. Website platforms and virtual consultations provide convenient access to healthcare services, while HIPAA compliance ensures regulatory adherence. Over-the-counter medications, prescription refill reminders, and affiliate marketing expand the market reach. Delivery services, digital therapeutics, personalized medicine, and automated dispensing systems further enhance the ePharmacy experience. The ongoing unfolding of these market activities underscores the continuous evolution of the ePharmacy sector.

How is this ePharmacy Industry segmented?

The epharmacy industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. Product TypeMedicationsHealth and wellness and nutritionPersonal care and essentialsDrug ClassPrescription drugsOver-the-counter drugsDistribution ChannelMobile applicationsOnline platformsEnd-userIndividualsCommercialGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of World (ROW)

By Product Type Insights

The medications segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.In the dynamic world of medications, the market is witnessing significant advancements, integrating various technologies to streamline processes and enhance patient care. The prescription verification system ensures accuracy and safety before dispensing, while payment gateways facilitate seamless transactions. Mobile health (mHealth) and telemedicine integration enable remote consultations and monitoring, fostering disease prevention and chronic disease management. Supply chain management, inventory management, and pharmaceutical logistics ensure efficient drug delivery, while clinical trials and drug discovery continue to bring new treatments to market. Machine learning and artificial intelligence power predictive modeling and medication adherence, addressing drug interactions and persona

Pharmacy Smart Will-Call Lockers Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Pharmacy Smart Will-Call Lockers market size was valued at $632 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.13 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 14.2% during 2024–2033. This robust expansion is primarily driven by the increasing demand for contactless, secure, and efficient prescription pick-up solutions, particularly as pharmacies worldwide strive to enhance customer convenience and operational efficiency. The integration of digital technologies and automation within pharmacy workflows is rapidly transforming how prescriptions are managed and dispensed, positioning pharmacy smart will-call lockers as a pivotal innovation in the healthcare retail landscape.

Regional Outlook

North America currently holds the largest share of the Pharmacy Smart Will-Call Lockers market, commanding over 41% of global revenue in 2024. The region’s dominance is underpinned by its mature healthcare infrastructure, high adoption of pharmacy automation, and supportive regulatory frameworks that encourage the deployment of advanced digital solutions in healthcare settings. The United States, in particular, has witnessed significant investments from both independent and chain pharmacies to streamline prescription management and enhance customer experience. Furthermore, the presence of leading market players and early technology adopters has enabled rapid product innovation, making North America a benchmark for global market trends in pharmacy automation.

Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, forecasted to register a CAGR of 17.6% through 2033. This dynamic growth can be attributed to rising healthcare expenditure, expanding urbanization, and the increasing penetration of organized retail pharmacy chains across countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. The region’s burgeoning middle class and growing demand for convenient, contactless healthcare services have prompted pharmacies to invest in smart will-call locker systems. Government initiatives to digitize healthcare services and improve medication adherence further support market expansion. Investment from both domestic and international players is accelerating technological adoption, making Asia Pacific a focal point for future market growth.

In emerging economies across Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, the adoption of pharmacy smart will-call lockers is gaining momentum but faces distinct challenges. Market growth in these regions is often hampered by infrastructural limitations, lower digital literacy, and fragmented pharmacy networks. However, increasing urbanization, rising awareness of healthcare automation, and policy efforts to modernize pharmacy services are gradually driving adoption. Localized demand for secure and efficient prescription pick-up solutions is growing, particularly in urban centers where congestion and long wait times are common. Nonetheless, the pace of market penetration remains slower compared to developed regions, highlighting the need for tailored strategies and supportive regulatory frameworks to unlock the full potential of smart will-call locker solutions.

Report Scope

The ePharmacy market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $77.23 billion in 2025 and exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20.47%. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increasing internet and smartphone penetration, particularly in developing economies, is driving greater online adoption for healthcare services, including prescription and over-the-counter drug purchases. Convenience, ease of access, and often lower prices compared to traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies are significant drivers for consumers. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards online pharmacy services, creating a lasting behavioral change. Technological advancements, such as improved delivery logistics, telehealth integration, and robust online prescription management systems, further enhance the appeal and efficiency of ePharmacies. Regulatory changes and government initiatives promoting digital health are also contributing to market growth. However, challenges remain, including concerns regarding data security and privacy, the potential for counterfeit medications, and the need for effective regulatory frameworks to ensure patient safety and quality control in online pharmaceutical transactions. Competition among established players and new entrants is intense, requiring companies to adopt sophisticated competitive strategies focused on pricing, technology, and customer service to maintain market share. The market segmentation reveals a strong demand for both prescription and over-the-counter drugs through ePharmacies. North America, particularly the United States, currently holds a significant market share due to high internet penetration and established e-commerce infrastructure. However, rapid growth is anticipated in Asia Pacific regions like India and China, driven by increasing disposable incomes and the expanding middle class embracing online retail options. Europe also represents a substantial market, with varying degrees of adoption across different countries. The leading companies, including Axelia Solutions Pvt. Ltd., CVS Health Corp., and others, are actively investing in technology and expanding their service offerings to capitalize on the market's growth potential. Future growth will be influenced by factors such as further regulatory clarity, technological innovation, and consumer trust in online pharmacy services.