Last updated: February 22, 2026
What is Ultravist 370 and its primary application?
Ultravist 370 is a contrast agent comprising iopromide, an iodinated compound used in diagnostic imaging. It has a concentration of 370 mg/mL and is primarily employed in computed tomography (CT) scans to improve image clarity. It belongs to a class of iodinated contrast media designed for intravenous administration in radiology.
What is the current market size and growth rate?
The global contrast media market was valued at approximately $4.8 billion in 2022. The segment specific to iodinated contrast agents, which includes Ultravist 370, accounted for roughly $2.9 billion. Expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2023 to 2030 stands at 4.7%.
| Metric |
Value/Details |
| 2022 Market Value |
$2.9 billion (iodinated contrast agents) |
| Predicted Growth Rate |
4.7% CAGR (2023-2030) |
| Key Regions |
North America (40%), Europe (25%), Asia-Pacific (20%) |
| Major Players |
Bayer (Ultravist), GE Healthcare (OmniScan), Bracco (Xenetix) |
How does patent status and regulatory environment influence market prospects?
Ultravist 370, produced by Bayer, is protected by patents that restrict generic competition until 2024. Post-expiration, market entry of generics is expected to heighten price competition, reducing average selling prices (ASPs). Regulatory approvals by the FDA in the U.S. and EMA in Europe enhance market security, with most approvals valid till 2025–2027.
What are the competitive dynamics?
Bayer's Ultravist 370 maintains a market share estimated at 30% within the iodinated contrast media segment. Key competitors include:
- GE Healthcare's Omnipaque
- Bracco's Xenetix
Market share shifts are likely post-patent expiry, especially as new formulations and higher-specificity agents enter the market. Pricing strategies focus on differentiating by safety profile and imaging performance.
What is the impact of technological and clinical trends?
- Development of lower-osmolar, non-ionic contrast agents improves safety.
- Increasing use of non-invasive imaging increases demand.
- Growing adoption in emerging markets expands net sales.
- Emphasis on contrast agents with better patient tolerance influences product development.
How do reimbursement policies affect financial prospects?
In the U.S., reimbursement for contrast agents is integrated into radiology procedure codes, with marginal differences between brands. In Europe, reimbursement policies vary by country but generally favor cost-effective generics once patent protections end. These policies influence pricing and volume growth.
What are the key financial projections?
Bayer’s revenues from Ultravist are estimated at approximately €600 million in 2022. With patent expiration nearing, revenue is projected to decline at a rate of 3-5% annually over five years. Market penetration of generics could reduce ASPs by 25-30%. Post-generic entry, Bayer forecasts a stabilized revenue base around €350–400 million annually.
| Year |
Estimated Revenue |
Notes |
| 2022 |
€600 million |
Pre-patent expiry |
| 2023 |
€560 million |
Slight decline |
| 2025 |
€450 million |
Increased generic competition |
| 2027 |
€370 million |
Market stabilization |
What are the strategic implications?
- Bayer may diversify its contrast agent portfolio into new imaging technologies.
- Investment in biosimilars or alternative diagnostics could offset revenue decline.
- Pricing pressures post-patent expiry necessitate cost optimization.
Key Takeaways
- Ultravist 370 controls a significant share in iodinated contrast media; market size was $2.9 billion in 2022.
- Revenue faces steady decline approaching patent expiry in 2024, with projected growth slowdown and price competition thereafter.
- Regulatory environment and reimbursement policies influence market access and profitability.
- Future growth hinges on clinical innovations and expansion into emerging markets.
FAQs
1. When is the patent for Ultravist 370 set to expire?
Patent protections for Ultravist 370 are expected to expire in 2024, opening the market to generic manufacturers.
2. What are the main competitors to Ultravist 370?
GE Healthcare’s Omnipaque and Bracco’s Xenetix are the primary competitors, sharing the iodinated contrast media market.
3. How will generic entry influence Bayer’s revenues?
Generic entry is projected to reduce Bayer’s ASPs by approximately 25-30%, causing revenues from Ultravist to decline by 3-5% annually over the subsequent five years.
4. What growth avenues exist for Bayer post-patent expiry?
Potential strategies include portfolio diversification into advanced imaging agents and expanding into emerging markets with growing healthcare infrastructure.
5. What clinical trends could impact the demand for Ultravist 370?
Growing preference for lower-osmolar, safer contrast agents and increased use of non-invasive imaging techniques are driving demand for newer formulations.
References
[1] Market Research Future. (2023). Contrast media market forecast.
[2] Bayer. (2022). Ultravist product information.
[3] GlobalData. (2023). Diagnostic imaging agents report.
[4] FDA. (2022). Guidelines on contrast media usage.
[5] European Medicines Agency. (2022). Marketing authorization for contrast agents.