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A12350 | Pages: 423 | Charts: 83 | Tables: 216 |
The global pharmaceutical suppositories market size was valued at $1.7 billion in 2023, and is projected to reach $3.2 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2035. Rise in prevalence of acute and chronic disorders, increase in the geriatric population, increase in initiatives for awareness and education for use of suppositories drive the growth of the pharmaceutical suppositories market. According to an article published by National Library of Medicine, in September 2023, the rising incidence of IBD is propelled by pediatric-onset IBD, which is rising by 1.23% per year from 15.6 per 100,000 in 2023 to 18.0 per 100,000 in 2035. This rising trend presents significant growth opportunities for pharmaceutical companies, encouraging the development of new suppository formulations to meet the needs of individuals with chronic diseases.
Pharmaceutical suppositories are solid dosage forms designed for insertion into body cavities, where they dissolve or melt to release active ingredients. They are commonly formulated using a base material such as cocoa butter, glycerinated gelatin, or polyethylene glycol (PEG) and others, which provides stability and enables controlled drug release. The manufacturing process involves melting the base, mixing it with the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and any necessary excipients, and then molding the mixture into the desired shape. Once cooled, the suppositories solidify and are packaged for use. Suppositories are designed to deliver medication via mucosal absorption.
The growing geriatric population is a major driver for the increased demand for pharmaceutical suppositories which further drive the pharmaceutical suppositories market growth. As people age, they commonly experience a decline in muscle function, including weakened digestive tract muscles, leading to conditions such as constipation, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and hemorrhoids. These issues often make it difficult for elderly individuals to rely on oral medications, as swallowing pills becomes challenging, and digestive systems may not efficiently absorb drugs. Suppositories offer an effective alternative by delivering medications directly through mucosal absorption, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. This is particularly beneficial for seniors, ensuring proper drug administration and absorption without the complications associated with oral medications.
Moreover, suppositories are well-suited for localized treatments, which are frequently required for managing conditions common in the elderly, such as chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, and localized pain. The targeted nature of suppository-based treatments allows for precise dosage delivery, reducing the risk of side effects and ensuring optimal therapeutic effects which increases its adoption and drive the gowth of pharmaceutical suppositories market size.
The aging global population, as highlighted by the WHO, which projects that 1 in 6 people will be aged 60 or older by 2030, further underscores the growing demand for suppository-based treatments. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focusing on developing products tailored to meet the specific needs of elderly patients.
Additionally, government initiatives and healthcare guidelines that promote early diagnosis and treatment of conditions benefiting from localized drug delivery, such as gastrointestinal disorders and infections, are driving the adoption of suppositories and drive pharmaceutical suppositories market growth. These efforts streamline treatment options, making suppositories a preferred choice when oral medications are ineffective or less feasible.
The pharmaceutical suppositories industry is segmented into type, base, prescription type, therapeutic application, fill volume categories, age group, distribution channel, end user, and region. On the basis of type, the market is divided into rectal suppositories, vaginal suppositories and urethral suppositories. According to base, it is classified into fatty base, water miscible bases, and emulsifying bases. The water miscible bases are further segmented into glycero gelatin base, soap glycerin suppositories, and polyethylene glycol bases. The emulsifying bases are further segmented into witepsol, massa esterium, and massuppol. On the basis of prescription type, it is bifurcated into OTC and prescribed suppositories.
Depending on therapeutic application, it is categorized into analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, antiemetics, laxatives, hormonal therapies, antifungals and antibacterials, and others. As per fill volume categories, it is divided into small fill volumes, medium fill volumes, and large fill volumes. On the basis of age group, it is bifurcated into pediatric use and adult use. On the basis of distribution channel, the market is divided into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies and online sales. On the basis of end user, the market is categorized into hospitals and clinics, home care, and others. Region wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.
On the basis of type, the rectal suppository segment was the largest revenue contributor to the market in 2023. This is attributed to its versatility, efficacy, and the broad spectrum of medical conditions it addresses. In addition, ongoing research and healthcare provider recommendations contribute to its sustained growth during pharmaceutical suppositories market forecast.
The vaginal suppositories segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. This is attributed to the increase in adoption of gynecological and health applications for women. Vaginal suppositories offer localized drug delivery for conditions such as vaginal infections and hormone therapy, resulting in quick, effective treatment while minimizing systemic side effects.
[TYPEGRAPH]
By base, the emulsifying bases segment was the highest revenue contributor to the market in 2023 and is expected to remain dominant during the forecast period. This is attributed to its versatility in formulating various suppository types. Emulsifying bases are well-suited for a wide range of drug compatibility and release profiles, making them the preferred choice for pharmaceutical suppository formulations.
[BASEGRAPH]
On the basis of prescription type, the prescribed suppositories segment was the highest revenue contributor to the market in 2023. This is attributed to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and the demand for targeted drug delivery solutions. Additionally, advancements in pharmaceutical formulations and precision medicine allow for personalized prescriptions tailored to individual patient needs, further driving growth in this segment.
The OTC segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period owing to a growing consumer inclination toward self-care and convenience. OTC products are readily available without a prescription, providing an accessible and cost-effective option for managing common health issue.
[PRESCRIPTIONTYPEGRAPH]
On the basis of therapeutic application, the analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs segment was the largest revenue contributor to the market in 2023. This growth is attributed to the increasing prevalence of pain management needs, particularly among
patients with conditions like hemorrhoids and cancer, where localized delivery offers effective relief and minimizes systemic side effects.
The hormonal therapies segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period owing to rising cases of hormonal imbalances and related disorders, such as menopause and fertility issues. In addition, increased awareness and acceptance of hormone replacement therapy are further driving the segment growth.
[THERAPEUTICAPPLICATIONGRAPH]
By Fill Volume Category, the medium fill volumes segment was the largest revenue contributor to the market in 2023 and is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. Medium fill volume suppositories are neither too small nor too large, making them easy to handle and administer. This size is particularly advantageous for patients, as it enhances comfort and compliance. Additionally, the availability of multiple formulations within this size range caters to various therapeutic needs, further driving segment growth as healthcare providers and patients increasingly opt for these versatile options.
[FILLVOLUMECATEGORIESGRAPH]
By Age Group, the adult use segment was the largest revenue contributor to the market in 2023. This growth is attributed to the growing acceptance of suppositories for addressing various health conditions, particularly pain management and gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, advancements in formulation technology and the availability of a wider range of effective products specifically designed for adults have increased their appeal, leading to greater market penetration and sales.
The pediatric use segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecasted period owing to several key factors. Increasing awareness among healthcare providers and parents about the benefits of suppositories for children, especially for those who struggle with oral medication, is driving this trend.
[AGEGROUPGRAPH]
By distribution channel, the hospital pharmacies segment held largest pharmaceutical suppositories market share in 2023 owing to several factors. Hospitals commonly employ suppositories for targeted drug delivery, ensuring precise dosing and minimizing systemic side effects. This growing demand for suppositories within the hospital setting, is driven by diverse medical conditions and treatment needs.
However, the online providers segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period owing to its convenience and accessibility. It offers discreet purchasing options, which appeal to consumers seeking privacy for sensitive products like suppositories.
[DISTRIBUTIONCHANNELGRAPH]
By end user, the hospitals and clinics segment was the largest revenue contributor to the market in 2023. Hospitals & clinics have increasingly showed an inclination toward pharmaceutical suppositories products. Moreover, a rise in number of government initiatives to ensure a high degree chronic disease treatment measure, and surge in number of hospitals with increased use of suppository therapy boost the growth of the hospitals & clinics segment.
However, the home care segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. Patients increasingly prefer home-based healthcare, driving demand for user-friendly drug delivery methods like suppositories. In addition, the growing aging population and the trend toward self-administration boost the growth of the segment. Cosmetic suppositories, offering skin-nourishing benefits, further contribute to the popularity of home care treatments, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
[ENDUSERGRAPH]
Region wise, North America held largest pharmaceutical suppositories market share in 2023, owing to increase in well-developed healthcare industry, presence of leading manufacturers in the region, and high adoption rate of suppositories in this region.
However, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to increase in number of geriatric populations, rise in people suffering from constipation and hemorrhoids, and improving healthcare infrastructure in the region.
[REGIONGRAPH]
Competitive analysis and profiles of the major players in the pharmaceutical suppositories industry include Zydus Group, Bayer AG, Church & Dwight Co. Inc, Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi S.A, Bliss GVS Pharma Ltd, and Bausch Health Companies Inc. The key players have adopted strategies such as product approval to expand their product portfolio.
Key Market Segments
Key Market Players