Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a bile acid that is primarily used for dissolving gallstones and treating liver diseases like primary biliary cholangitis. UDCA is known to reduce liver inflammation and damage by protecting liver cells. It is also used as an adjuvant therapy for conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis. UDCA is available in oral capsule or tablet formulation and usually leads to few side effects. This bile acid works by dissolving cholesterol gallstones, reducing cholesterol absorption and stimulating bile flow.
The Global Ursodeoxycholic Acid Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 737.8 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 11% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Ursodeoxycholic Acid market are Philips, GE Healthcare, Medtronic, Siemens Healthineers, Stryker, Abbott, Boston Scientific, Johnson & Johnson, Canon Medical Systems, Baxter.
The increasing prevalence of gallstone disease and liver disorders like primary biliary cholangitis is a major factor driving the demand for ursodeoxycholic acid. According to statistics, over 10–15% of the world’s population develops gallstones during their lifetime. Additionally, the rising obese population also contributes to gallstone formation and associated conditions requiring UDCA therapy.
Technological advancements to develop more effective drug delivery systems and novel formulations of ursodeoxycholic acid enabling improved bioavailability and reduced side effects are expected to boost the market growth over the forecast period. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in R&D activities to enhance ursodeoxycholic acid properties.
Market Trends
The first trend is the rising focus on developing generic and biosimilar versions of branded Ursodeoxycholic Acid Market Growth to make treatment more affordable. Companies are engaged in manufacturing generic ursodeoxycholic acid drugs which are equally effective but cost fewer prices than branded drugs.
The second key trend is the increasing adoption of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) for new treatment applications beyond liver and gallbladder disorders. Ongoing clinical research evaluating potential benefits of UDCA in pancreatic disorders, cystic fibrosis, and other chronic conditions could drive future demand.
Market Opportunities
One major opportunity for ursodeoxycholic acid market players is expanding to untapped emerging markets in Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa regions. These areas have huge patient pools of liver diseases but low awareness and access to standard treatments.
Another key opportunity lies in developing novel drug delivery technologies for ursodeoxycholic acid like sustained release capsules/tablets, gels, and injectables. This could help address challenges like poor bioavailability and non-compliance with oral therapy due to frequent dosing requirements.
Impact of COVID-19 on Ursodeoxycholic Acid Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the growth of the ursodeoxycholic acid market in 2020. During the initial months of the pandemic, there were nation-wide lockdowns imposed across countries to curb the spread of the virus. This led to temporary closures of several manufacturing units and disruptions across supply chains. There was a shortage of raw materials required to produce ursodeoxycholic acid. This led to a decline in production volumes. Additionally, people were hesitant to visit hospitals and clinics for non-urgent medical procedures during the peak of the pandemic due to fear of virus transmission. This resulted in postponed treatments and elective surgeries involving the use of ursodeoxycholic acid.
However, with rapid vaccination drives and resumption of economic activities post lockdowns, the market is witnessing steady recovery. The demand for ursodeoxycholic acid is increasing steadily as healthcare facilities are now functioning normally with adherence to necessary safety protocols. Manufacturers are operating at near to pre-COVID production levels. The recovering economy and increasing medical spending are expected to fuel the market growth over the forecast period. Companies are expanding their manufacturing capabilities and enhancing supply chain resilience to cater to future demand fluctuations better.
Geographical Regions with Highest Concentration of Ursodeoxycholic Acid Market in terms of Value
North America represents the largest regional market for ursodeoxycholic acid in terms of value. The presence of highly developed healthcare infrastructure and rising prevalence of chronic liver diseases have been driving the demand in the region. According to estimates, the North American market accounted for over 35% share of the global market value in 2024.
Western Europe is another major revenue generator for the ursodeoxycholic acid market globally. Favorable government initiatives to enhance access to advanced medical therapies and growing awareness about benefits of timely treatment are supporting the market growth in countries like Germany, United Kingdom, France and Italy.
Fastest Growing Regional Market for Ursodeoxycholic Acid
The Asia Pacific market for ursodeoxycholic acid is poised to exhibit fastest growth during the forecast period. This can be attributed to rapidly increasing healthcare expenditures, growing population, rising affluence, emerging economic powers like China and India and improving access to specialty medicines in the region. Additionally, several global manufacturers are shifting focus towards Asia Pacific by setting up production facilities to leverage lower costs and cater to the huge local demands. These factors are collectively contributing to the accelerated expansion of the ursodeoxycholic acid market in Asia Pacific.
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