Vietnam Constipation Therapeutics Market Analysis

Vietnam Constipation Therapeutics Market Executive Summary

Vietnam Constipation Therapeutics Market was valued at $91 Mn in 2022 and is estimated to reach $153 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.73% during the forecast period.

Constipation is a digestive disorder characterized by infrequent, challenging, or hardened bowel movements resulting from the slowed movement of stool through the colon, leading to increased water absorption and solidification of stool. This condition arises from a reduction in the speed at which feces traverse the large intestine. Common symptoms of constipation include exertion during bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, abdominal discomfort, and irregular or infrequent bowel patterns. Various factors, including a low-fiber diet, insufficient fluid intake, lack of physical activity, specific medications, and underlying medical conditions, can contribute to the development of constipation. Managing constipation typically involves making lifestyle adjustments, modifying dietary habits, increasing physical activity, and, when necessary, using medications to address and alleviate symptoms.

In Vietnam, constipation is a common health issue that is primarily influenced by low-fiber eating habits, which are particularly common in traditional rice and noodle diets for Vietnamese people. Constipation is more common because of inadequate hydration, sedentary lifestyles, and possibly underlying medical conditions. Notably, functional constipation ranks as the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) in this age group (7-48 months), affecting roughly 5.6% of children. The incidence is noticeably greater in children between the ages of 24 and 30 months, with boys being more susceptible than girls. Constipation can be lessened by incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet, drinking enough water, encouraging regular exercise, and taking care of any underlying medical issues. Seeking professional medical advice is essential for those dealing with severe or persistent symptoms in order to receive a thorough evaluation and individualized guidance on how to effectively manage constipation.

Historically, laxatives have been the conventional approach to treating constipation; however, contemporary medications are focusing on specific mechanisms associated with constipation, potentially providing a more precise and efficient treatment. A notable example is Elobixibat, developed by Albireo, which stands as a first-in-class ileal bile acid transporter inhibitor. This medication is currently undergoing clinical trials for potential approval in other regions. Elobixibat operates by enhancing fluid secretion in the intestine, facilitating the production of softer stools, and promoting easier passage, showcasing a promising advancement in constipation therapeutics.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Changing Lifestyle and Dietary Patterns: Modernization and lifestyle modifications frequently result in dietary changes, such as a decrease in fiber intake and sedentary behavior, which exacerbate constipation. Constipation may result from a switch to a Westernized diet, which is frequently higher in processed foods and lower in fiber. This in turn increases the need for treatments to deal with and manage problems associated with constipation.

Rising Incidence in Specific Demographics: Functional constipation stands out as the primary functional gastrointestinal disorder within the age range of 7 to 48 months, impacting approximately 5.6% of children. The occurrence of constipation, particularly in specific demographics like the elderly or young children, could lead to a demand for specialized therapeutics designed for these particular populations. For example, if constipation is more prevalent among the elderly, there could be an increased requirement for medications or interventions specifically tailored to address this issue.

Technological Advancements in Treatment Options: Advances in pharmaceutical research and development, leading to the introduction of more effective and targeted constipation therapeutics, can stimulate market growth. Innovative treatment options with improved efficacy and reduced side effects may gain traction among healthcare providers and patients.

Market Restraints

Limited Healthcare Awareness: The lack of awareness or understanding about the importance of gastrointestinal health and the available constipation therapeutics may hinder market growth. Limited awareness among both healthcare professionals and the general population might result in delayed or inadequate treatment seeking.

Economic Constraints: Economic factors, including lower income levels in certain segments of the population, may limit the affordability of constipation therapeutics. This could lead to a reduced adoption rate of medications or treatments, particularly among individuals with financial constraints.

Cultural and Dietary Practices: Traditional cultural and dietary practices in Vietnam, which may not prioritize a high-fiber diet or active lifestyle, could pose challenges for preventive measures against constipation. Cultural preferences and habits may need to be considered in the development and promotion of therapeutics.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

In Vietnam, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and its subordinate, the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV), primarily administer healthcare policies and regulatory oversight for therapeutic drugs. As the highest governing body, the MOH is responsible for formulating and executing policies that govern the approval, importation, manufacturing, and distribution of pharmaceuticals, encompassing treatment drugs. The DAV, functioning under the MOH, plays a crucial role in drug-related affairs, overseeing the registration, licensing, quality control, and inspection of pharmaceutical products. The National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB) manages testing and quality assurance. The overall regulatory framework encompasses clinical trial regulations, adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and compliance with import and export regulations. Furthermore, a nuanced understanding of health insurance policies and their coverage for treatment drugs is imperative, reflecting Vietnam's ongoing endeavors to uphold the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of pharmaceutical treatments within a well-regulated healthcare system.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• GlaxoSmithKline
• Johnson & Johnson
• Sanofi
• Abbott
• Bayer
• AstraZeneca
• Pfizer
• Merck Sharp & Dohme
• Boehringer Ingelheim
• United Laboratories