US Constipation Therapeutics Market Analysis

US Constipation Therapeutics Market Executive Summary

US Constipation Therapeutics Market was valued at $7,644 Mn in 2022 and is estimated to reach $10,871 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period.

Constipation is a digestive condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, or the passage of hard and dry stool. It occurs when the movement of stool through the colon (large intestine) is slow, allowing more water to be absorbed from the stool, leading to its hardening. Common symptoms of constipation include straining during bowel movements, a sense of incomplete evacuation, abdominal discomfort, and infrequent or irregular bowel habits. Various factors can contribute to constipation, including a low-fiber diet, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, and, if necessary, medications are often employed to manage and relieve constipation.

Constipation prevalence in the US ranges widely from 1.9% to 27.2%, with women 2.2 times more likely than men to experience constipation. Constipation becomes more common as people age, especially after the age of 65. Notably, non-White populations also exhibit a higher prevalence. Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) affects a substantial portion of the adult population, ranging from 9% to 20% in the US. These statistics underscore the multifaceted nature of constipation, with demographic factors and chronicity playing significant roles in its prevalence among diverse segments of the population.

Linzess (linaclotide) has received FDA approval for addressing functional constipation in pediatric patients aged 6-17 years, establishing itself as the inaugural and sole FDA-approved prescription therapy tailored for this particular demographic. This represents a major advancement in the management of pediatric constipation by offering a focused and endorsed treatment option for medical practitioners to take into account when treating younger patients.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Dietary changes: The increasing consumption of processed foods and reduced fiber intake contribute to constipation, highlighting the pivotal role of dietary fiber in gut health. As awareness grows, there is a potential rise in demand for fiber-based laxatives or dietary solutions, reflecting a trend towards health-conscious choices and acting as a driver for constipation therapeutics in the US.

Growing Awareness: Growing awareness of gut health and digestive issues is a key driver for the constipation therapeutics market in the US. Increased public awareness is fostering a higher demand for effective constipation treatments, shaping consumer behavior and driving market growth.

Aging Population: The rapidly growing segment of Americans aged 65 and over, exceeding 58 Mn in 2023 and projected to reach 82 Mn by 2050, serves as a significant driver for the constipation therapeutics market in the US. This demographic shift, representing 17% of the total population and expected to comprise 23% by 2050, correlates with an increased risk of constipation due to factors like decreased physical activity, dietary changes, and medication side effects. The expanding elderly population and their elevated susceptibility to constipation create a substantial market growth opportunity for constipation therapeutics in the country.

Market Restraints

Cost and Affordability: The high cost of novel medications and potential financial burdens associated with specific over-the-counter laxatives act as a market restraint for constipation therapeutics in the US, limiting accessibility for patients, especially those with limited insurance coverage.

Preference for Over-the-counter (OTC) Remedies: Many individuals often resort to self-medication with over-the-counter remedies for constipation, neglecting prescription therapeutics. This consumer behavior can impede the market's growth as it poses challenges for healthcare professionals in promoting and prescribing specialized constipation treatments.

Safety and Efficacy Concerns: Safety and efficacy concerns act as a notable market restraint for constipation therapeutics in the US. Prescription and over-the-counter laxatives may cause side effects, including bloating, electrolyte imbalances, and dependency issues. The development of new medications requires addressing these concerns and ensuring long-term safety. Additionally, the ineffectiveness of current treatments for all patients leads to dissatisfaction and frustration, hindering widespread adoption in the market.

Notable Recent Updates

• May 2023, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a company specializing in gastrointestinal (GI) healthcare, and VectivBio, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm, have officially agreed on an acquisition. Ironwood is set to acquire VectivBio, marking a significant move in advancing innovative treatments for severe rare gastrointestinal conditions, including constipation.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In the US, various authorities oversee the regulatory framework and healthcare policies related to therapeutic drugs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a government agency, plays a vital role in conducting comprehensive evaluations before a product enters the market, monitoring its safety post-market, and granting approval for new pharmaceuticals. The FDA's Centre for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) specifically manages pre-market assessments, drug regulation, and the formulation of guidelines for drug development. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) within the US Department of Justice is responsible for enforcing regulations to prevent the misuse and diversion of prohibited narcotics. The Centres for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) exert significant influence over a substantial portion of the population's access to pharmaceuticals by overseeing reimbursement policies for medications covered by Medicare and Medicaid.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• AbbVie
• Allergan
• Amgen
• Boehringer Ingelheim
• Eisai Inc.
• Johnson & Johnson
• Pfizer
• Takeda Pharmaceutical
• Teva Pharmaceutical
• The Mentholatum Company