Overview of Sucralfate
Sucralfate, commonly known by the brand name Carafate, is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent ulcers in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)[2][5].
Market Size and Growth
The U.S. sucralfate market has been experiencing significant growth, driven by several key factors. As of 2017, the U.S. sucralfate market was valued at $296.2 million and is expected to exhibit a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% from 2018 to 2026[2].
On a global scale, the sucralfate market was valued at $257.7 million in 2023 and is forecasted to reach $300.2 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 1.8% during the forecast period of 2024-2030[3].
Drivers of Market Growth
Increasing Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Disorders
The rising incidence of gastrointestinal disorders such as peptic ulcer disease, GERD, and Helicobacter pylori infections is a major driver of the sucralfate market. For instance, Helicobacter pylori is estimated to cause 95% of duodenal and 70% of gastric ulcers[2].
Technological Advancements and New Applications
Sucralfate is increasingly being used in various applications, including the treatment of esophageal injuries in infants and children. The use of sucralfate along with honey has been noted to aid in the treatment of such injuries[2].
Inorganic Growth Strategies
Market players are adopting inorganic growth strategies such as collaborations and acquisitions, which are expected to bolster market growth. For example, the acquisition of Aptalis Pharma Inc. by Forest Laboratories, Inc. in 2014 is a significant example of such strategies[2].
Demographic Factors
The rising geriatric population and changing lifestyle patterns, including the increased consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are contributing to the growing demand for sucralfate[5].
Market Segmentation
By Formulation
The market is segmented into tablets and liquid suspensions. The tablet segment dominates the market due to its ease of administration, convenience of storage, and widespread availability[5].
By Indication
Sucralfate is used to treat various indications, including gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, GERD, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The peptic ulcer disease segment holds the largest market share due to its high prevalence, especially in developing countries[5].
By Distribution Channel
The market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies account for the largest market share due to the increasing number of hospital admissions for gastrointestinal complications[5].
By Region
North America, particularly the U.S., dominates the global sucralfate market due to the high prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders and the presence of well-established healthcare infrastructure. Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period due to the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders and rising healthcare expenditure in countries like China, India, and Japan[5].
Key Players
Major players operating in the U.S. sucralfate market include:
- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
- Allergan plc
- Vertice Pharma LLC
- Pharmaceutical Associates Inc.[1][2]
On a global scale, other significant players include SRL Pharma and Nitika Chemical[3].
Price Projections
Current Pricing
The cost for sucralfate varies based on the formulation and quantity. For example, the cost for sucralfate oral suspension (1 g/10 mL) is around $39 for a supply of 200 milliliters, while the cost for sucralfate oral tablets (1 g) is around $28.33 for 90 tablets[4].
Future Pricing Trends
Given the steady growth rate and increasing demand, prices are likely to remain stable or see a slight increase. However, competitive pressures and the entry of generic versions could potentially stabilize or reduce prices over time.
Market Opportunities and Challenges
Opportunities
- Increasing Demand for Safe and Effective Treatments: The growing demand for safe and effective ulcer treatments, especially in developing countries, presents significant growth opportunities for the sucralfate market.
- Expanding Applications: The use of sucralfate in new applications, such as treating esophageal injuries, opens up additional market opportunities[2].
Challenges
- Competition from Alternative Treatments: The presence of alternative treatments for gastrointestinal disorders could pose a challenge to the growth of the sucralfate market.
- Regulatory and Economic Factors: Changes in healthcare policies, economic conditions, and the availability of healthcare facilities in certain regions can impact market growth[5].
Future Outlook
The global sucralfate market is expected to witness steady growth driven by the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders, the rising geriatric population, and the growing demand for safe and effective treatments. Asia Pacific is anticipated to be a key region for growth due to its large patient population and increasing healthcare expenditure[5].
"The increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders, such as peptic ulcer disease, GERD, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is a key factor driving the growth of the sucralfate market." - Data Horizon Research[5]
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. sucralfate market is expected to grow significantly, driven by increasing demand and technological advancements.
- The global sucralfate market is forecasted to reach $300.2 million by 2030.
- Key drivers include the rising prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders and the adoption of inorganic growth strategies by market players.
- The tablet segment dominates the market, and hospital pharmacies account for the largest distribution channel share.
- North America and Asia Pacific are critical regions for market growth.
FAQs
What is the current market size of the U.S. sucralfate market?
The U.S. sucralfate market was valued at $296.2 million in 2017 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2018 to 2026[2].
What are the main drivers of the sucralfate market growth?
The main drivers include the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders, technological advancements, and inorganic growth strategies adopted by market players[2][5].
Who are the major players in the U.S. sucralfate market?
Major players include Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Allergan plc, Vertice Pharma LLC, and Pharmaceutical Associates Inc.[1][2].
What is the forecasted global market size for sucralfate by 2030?
The global sucralfate market is forecasted to reach $300.2 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 1.8% during the forecast period of 2024-2030[3].
What are the common formulations of sucralfate?
Sucralfate is available in various formulations, including tablets, liquid suspensions, and powders[5].
Which region is expected to witness the fastest growth in the sucralfate market?
Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period due to the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders and rising healthcare expenditure[5].
Sources
- Coherent Market Insights: U.S. Sucralfate Market Set to Witness Significant Growth by 2024-2031.
- Coherent Market Insights: U.S. Sucralfate Market Size, Trends and Forecast to 2026.
- Valuates Reports: Sucralfate - Market, Report Size, Worth, Revenue, Growth, Industry.
- Drugs.com: Sucralfate Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance.
- Data Horizon Research: Sucralfate Market Size, Share & Forecast 2033.
