Core Insights - The article highlights the increasing prevalence of depression in China, with approximately 95 million individuals affected, leading to a booming market for antidepressant medications [5][12][18] - The demand for antidepressants has surged, with sales in public medical institutions exceeding 9.1 billion yuan in the previous year, marking a 6% year-on-year increase [5][7] - The market for antidepressants is becoming increasingly competitive, with numerous domestic pharmaceutical companies entering the space, particularly in the production of generic drugs [13][20] Market Dynamics - The rise in depression cases has created a vibrant pharmaceutical market, with companies like Hansoh Pharmaceutical and Jingwei Pharmaceutical achieving significant sales figures [7][12] - The sales of antidepressants in public hospitals have seen a drastic shift, with domestic companies gaining market share due to price reductions and increased competition [22][24] - The introduction of centralized procurement has led to a significant drop in drug prices, making antidepressants more accessible to patients [19][20][22] Industry Challenges - Despite the growing market, the high cost of psychological therapy remains a barrier for many patients, leading to a preference for medication over therapy [26][27] - The perception of antidepressants as a long-term necessity poses challenges for patient management, with many experiencing withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing medication [26][27] - The industry faces scrutiny over the quality of psychological counseling services, which can vary significantly, impacting patient experiences and outcomes [26][27]