Top 10 Companies in the Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry (2023-2028): Market Leaders Advancing Innovative Treatments for Global Patients

In Business Insights
October 02, 2025


The Global Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Market was valued at USD 32.5 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 48.7 Billion by 2028, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4% during the forecast period (2023–2028). This growth is being driven by the increasing prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis worldwide, advancements in biologic therapies and targeted small molecules, and the rising demand for personalized medicine solutions across prescription and over-the-counter applications.

As the healthcare landscape evolves toward more effective and patient-centric treatments for autoimmune diseases, the focus is on pharmaceutical giants who are pioneering research, developing breakthrough drugs, and expanding access to therapies. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry—a blend of biopharma leaders, innovators in biologics, and developers of next-generation inhibitors shaping the future of RA management.


🔟 1. AbbVie Inc.

Headquarters: North Chicago, Illinois, USA
Key Offering: Humira (adalimumab), Rinvoq (upadacitinib), Skyrizi (risankizumab)

AbbVie stands as a dominant force in the rheumatoid arthritis drug market, with its flagship biologic Humira having been a cornerstone treatment for over two decades. The company continues to innovate with JAK inhibitors like Rinvoq, which target specific inflammatory pathways to provide relief for moderate to severe RA patients. AbbVie’s robust pipeline ensures it remains at the forefront, serving millions globally through partnerships with healthcare providers and ongoing clinical trials.

Beyond its core products, AbbVie invests heavily in understanding the long-term impacts of RA therapies. For instance, their research emphasizes combination therapies that reduce disease progression while minimizing side effects. This approach not only improves patient outcomes but also addresses the growing need for cost-effective treatments in diverse populations.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Ongoing Phase 3 trials for next-gen IL inhibitors

  • Collaborations with academic institutions for biomarker discovery

  • Commitment to expanding access in emerging markets by 2030

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2028 Global and Regional Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. Boehringer Ingelheim

Headquarters: Ingelheim, Germany
Key Offering: Otezla (apremilast), Spesolimab, Experimental RA biologics

Boehringer Ingelheim is making significant strides in RA treatment through its focus on oral therapies and novel biologics. While best known for respiratory and cardiovascular drugs, the company’s immunology portfolio includes agents that modulate cytokine activity, offering alternatives to traditional injectables. Operating in over 130 countries, Boehringer emphasizes patient adherence with user-friendly formulations.

The firm’s strategy involves integrating digital health tools to monitor treatment efficacy, which helps in adjusting dosages for better results. This innovation is particularly valuable as RA affects daily life, and personalized monitoring can lead to sustained remission rates.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Development of PDE4 inhibitors for inflammatory control

  • Partnerships with biotech firms for gene therapy explorations


8️⃣ 3. Novartis AG

Headquarters: Basel, Switzerland
Key Offering: Cosentyx (secukinumab), Ilaris (canakinumab), Jakavi (ruxolitinib)

Novartis leads with its interleukin-17 inhibitors, such as Cosentyx, which have demonstrated efficacy in reducing joint damage in RA patients. The company’s global reach allows it to tailor therapies for regional needs, including adaptations for Asia-Pacific markets where RA incidence is rising. Novartis’s commitment to evidence-based medicine is evident in its extensive post-marketing surveillance programs.

Furthermore, Novartis is exploring multimodal therapies that combine small molecules with biologics to enhance response rates. This holistic approach addresses the heterogeneity of RA, ensuring treatments are effective across different patient profiles, from early-onset to refractory cases.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Targets for 20% increase in remission rates by 2028

  • Supply chain optimizations for JAK inhibitor distribution


7️⃣ 4. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals

Headquarters: Tarrytown, New York, USA
Key Offering: Dupixent (dupilumab) in collaboration, Kevzara (sarilumab)

Regeneron excels in antibody engineering, with Kevzara providing IL-6 blockade for RA patients who don’t respond to TNF inhibitors. Through its alliance with Sanofi, Regeneron expands its footprint, focusing on combination regimens that improve long-term joint function. The company’s agile R&D model allows quick pivots based on emerging clinical data.

In addition, Regeneron’s work on rare disease overlaps with RA research, leading to insights into autoimmune mechanisms that benefit broader applications. Their emphasis on real-world evidence helps refine treatment protocols, making therapies more accessible and effective.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Goal of IL-6 pathway dominance with 15% market share by 2028

  • Europe and Asia clinical expansion for sarilumab variants

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2028 Global and Regional Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


6️⃣ 5. Pfizer Inc.

Headquarters: New York, New York, USA
Key Offering: Xeljanz (tofacitinib), Enbrel (etanercept) co-marketing

Pfizer’s JAK inhibitor Xeljanz has revolutionized oral treatment options for RA, offering convenience over injectables. The company leverages its vast manufacturing network to ensure supply stability, crucial during global health disruptions. Pfizer’s pipeline includes next-gen kinase inhibitors aimed at fewer adverse events.

Moreover, Pfizer invests in health economics studies to demonstrate the value of its drugs, influencing payer decisions and expanding reimbursement coverage. This strategic focus not only boosts market penetration but also supports patient affordability in prescription segments.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Certified oral therapies at key global health centers

  • Aiming for net-zero environmental impact in production


5️⃣ 6. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

Headquarters: New York, New York, USA
Key Offering: Orencia (abatacept), Sotyktu (deucravacitinib)

Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) pioneers T-cell co-stimulation modulators with Orencia, a biologic that prevents immune overactivity in RA. BMS’s immunology expertise extends to small molecule inhibitors, providing diverse options for patients. Globally, the company supports over 500 clinical sites for RA studies.

The integration of AI in drug discovery at BMS accelerates the identification of novel targets, potentially shortening development timelines. This innovation is vital as RA’s chronic nature demands continuous advancements to manage comorbidities like cardiovascular risks.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Current output: Leading in abatacept production exceeding 500,000 doses annually

  • Target: Double R&D investment in autoimmune by 2028


4️⃣ 7. Roche Holding AG

Headquarters: Basel, Switzerland
Key Offering: Actemra (tocilizumab), Rituxan (rituximab)

Roche dominates with its anti-IL-6 therapy Actemra, widely used for RA and associated cytokine storms. The company’s diagnostics division complements its pharma efforts, enabling companion diagnostics for personalized RA treatment. Roche’s presence in Europe and beyond ensures broad accessibility.

Additionally, Roche’s focus on biosimilars aims to lower costs without compromising efficacy, addressing barriers in over-the-counter and generic markets. Their global trials include diverse ethnic groups to ensure equitable outcomes.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Limited but growing involvement in CAR-T for autoimmune applications

  • R&D into bispecific antibodies under innovation programs

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2028 Global and Regional Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


3️⃣ 8. UCB SA

Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
Key Offering: Cimzia (certolizumab pegol), Evenity (romosozumab) extensions

UCB specializes in biologics like Cimzia, a PEGylated anti-TNF that offers longer dosing intervals for RA patients. As a European leader, UCB excels in regulatory navigation, securing approvals for pediatric RA indications. The company’s patient support programs enhance adherence rates.

UCB’s research into nerve growth factors intersects with RA pain management, providing comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach helps in reducing opioid reliance and improving quality of life.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Indigenous biologic research in EU hubs

  • Collaborations to scale next-gen TNF inhibitors


2️⃣ 9. Johnson & Johnson

Headquarters: New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
Key Offering: Stelara (ustekinumab), Simponi (golimumab)

Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen division delivers IL-12/23 inhibitors like Stelara, effective for RA with psoriatic overlaps. The company’s integrated health solutions include device-assisted delivery for injectables. J&J’s global scale supports distribution in South Asia and Africa.

Furthermore, J&J’s emphasis on vaccine-preventable infections in RA patients adds value to its portfolio. Their sustainability efforts in manufacturing reduce environmental impact, aligning with global health goals.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Plans for 1 million additional patients by 2028

  • Expansion of subcutaneous delivery systems


1️⃣ 10. Amgen Inc.

Headquarters: Thousand Oaks, California, USA
Key Offering: Enbrel (etanercept), Otezla (apremilast) acquisition

Amgen rounds out the top players with Enbrel, a TNF receptor fusion protein that’s a first-line RA therapy. The company’s biologics expertise drives biosimilar development and novel RANKL inhibitors. Amgen supports thousands of rheumatology centers worldwide.

In parallel, Amgen’s work on bone health in RA patients integrates osteoporosis prevention, offering holistic solutions. Their data analytics platforms track treatment responses, informing future iterations.

Research and Development Focus:

  • Comprehensive solutions for biologic access

  • Partnerships with producers for market-wide scaling

Read Full Report: 2023-2028 Global and Regional Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Rheumatoid Arthritis Drugs Is Innovative and Accessible

The rheumatoid arthritis drug market is experiencing a profound transformation. While biologics and small molecules currently hold sway, the sector is channeling substantial resources into gene editing, AI-driven discovery, and affordable biosimilars.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Rapid expansion of biosimilar production in Europe, North America, and Asia

  • Regulatory mandates for 10-20% biosimilar inclusion by 2028 in key regions

  • Digitalization of patient tracking and outcome analytics

  • Pharma-healthcare alliances for accelerated drug approvals

Read Full Report: 2023-2028 Global and Regional Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only advancing RA treatments—they’re leading the charge toward curative therapies for millions worldwide.