UK Atopic Dermatitis Therapeutics Market Analysis

UK Atopic Dermatitis Therapeutics Market Analysis: Executive Summary

The UK Atopic Dermatitis Therapeutics Market is at around US $320 Mn in 2022 and is projected to reach US $541 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period.

Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, is a persistent inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and inflammation. It often manifests in localized patches across various body areas and can be exacerbated by factors such as dry skin, stress, and exposure to specific irritants or allergens. Prominent symptoms include intense itching, redness, dryness, and the appearance of small, fluid-filled blisters that may release fluid and form crusts. Treatment typically involves a holistic approach, incorporating the use of emollients for skin moisturization, topical corticosteroids to alleviate inflammation, and, in severe cases, systemic immunosuppressants. Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture medications for atopic dermatitis, with notable examples including Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi's Dupixent (Dupilumab), Pfizer's Eucrisa (Crisaborole), and Novartis's Elidel (Pimecrolimus).

Currently, more than 72,000 individuals are living with AD in the UK. The estimated prevalence ranges up to 20% for children and 10% for adults. The market is driven by significant factors such as the rising prevalence of AD, high unmet medical needs, and the evolving treatment landscape in the therapeutics market. However, conditions such as affordability challenges, complex reimbursement policies, and increased competition limit the growth and potential of the market.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Increase in prevalence of AD: In the United Kingdom, the estimated prevalence of AD ranges from 11–20% for children and 5–10% for adults. Currently, approximately 72,000 individuals are suffering from AD. The rising prevalence is linked to environmental factors, the hygiene hypothesis, and advancements in diagnostic methods.

High unmet medical need: Owing to the huge patient pool, the majority of atopic dermatitis treatments take place within the home environment, involving minimal interaction with healthcare providers or services. This indicated the high unmet medical need of the UK population for advanced treatments, driving the therapeutics market forward.

Evolving treatment landscape: In the UK market, there is a transition towards biologics such as dupilumab (Dupixent) and secukinumab (Cosentyx), providing targeted effectiveness and enhancing the quality of life for patients. The emergence of JAK inhibitors like abrocitinib (Cetrolizumab) and baricitinib (Olumiant) presents another encouraging category of treatment.

Market Restraints

Affordability challenges: New biologic therapies provide heightened effectiveness but come with a high cost, which may hinder access for patients and put pressure on healthcare budgets. Disparities in healthcare coverage and socioeconomic differences can lead to unequal access to advanced treatments, especially for underprivileged communities.

Stringent reimbursement policies: The National Health Service (NHS) enforces stringent criteria for medication reimbursement, necessitating proof of cost-effectiveness before endorsing therapies. This protocol can impede market entry for innovative yet costly treatments. The sluggish approval procedure and the possibility of coverage restrictions may limit patients' access to newer, potentially more efficient alternatives.

Increased competition: The presence of generic alternatives for topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors exerts significant pricing pressure on the market. While this enhances affordability for certain patients, it has the potential to diminish profits for pharmaceutical companies and discourage investment in research and development for new therapies. Striking a balance between promoting generics for cost-effectiveness and fostering innovation through patent protection is crucial for ensuring sustainable growth in the market.

Notable Updates

September 2021, Pfizer's CIBINQO obtained marketing authorization in the UK for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

The healthcare regulatory landscape in the United Kingdom is overseen by several agencies and organizations to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of healthcare products and services. One of the key authorities in the pharmaceutical sector is the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The MHRA is responsible for regulating medicines, medical devices, and blood components for transfusion in the UK. It assesses the safety and quality of drugs before they can be authorized for use, monitors their safety once on the market, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

Obtaining a license for pharmaceutical products in the UK involves a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the MHRA. Applicants must submit comprehensive data on the safety, efficacy, and quality of their products, and the MHRA conducts thorough assessments before granting marketing authorization. The regulatory environment aims to strike a balance between ensuring patient safety and facilitating innovation in the pharmaceutical industry.

New entrants must navigate complex regulatory procedures, adhere to stringent quality standards, and demonstrate the benefits of their products to gain approval in the UK market. The regulatory framework is designed to safeguard public health while fostering an environment conducive to the development and introduction of innovative healthcare solutions.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• Pfizer
• Novartis
• Astellas Pharma
• Galderma
• Regeneron Pharmaceutical
• Sanofi
• Valeant Pharmaceutical
• Anacor Pharmaceutical
• Meda Pharmaceutical
• Allergan Plc