The global chronic kidney disease (CKD) drugs market is poised for substantial growth, reaching an estimated $14.8 billion in 2023 and projected to achieve $23.8 billion by 2034, expanding at a robust CAGR of 4.2%. This surge can be attributed to several factors, including the rising prevalence of CKD, advancements in treatment strategies, and the emergence of new drug classes like SGLT2 inhibitors.
Chronic kidney disease, characterized by a progressive decline in kidney function, affects millions worldwide. As the kidneys struggle to adequately filter blood, it can lead to a range of complications. There are five distinct phases of CKD, categorized by the severity of kidney damage and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a measure of kidney function.
Treatment for CKD typically involves a combination of medications aimed at slowing disease progression and reducing the risk of complications. These medications include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), beta-blockers, erythropoiesis-stimulating medicines, and diuretics.
The increasing prevalence of CKD, particularly driven by diabetes-related nephropathy and hypertension-induced renal diseases, is a key driver for market growth. Genetic predisposition, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices also play significant roles in the development of CKD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 1 in 7 adult Americans, approximately 35.5 million individuals, currently have CKD.
The focus on slowing the progression of CKD and reducing mortality is further driving the market. Individuals with type 2 diabetes are particularly at risk for developing CKD, and medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) are helping to improve blood glucose regulation in diabetic patients.
One of the most significant developments in CKD treatment has been the introduction of SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2) inhibitors. These medications have proven effective in delaying the development of renal disease and reducing the risk of renal failure, heart failure, and mortality in patients with CKD and type 2 diabetes.
The approval and introduction of SGLT2 inhibitors are significantly impacting the market. For example, the FDA approved Jardiance (empagliflozin) 10 mg tablets in September 2023 to lower the risk of hospitalization, end-stage kidney disease, cardiovascular death, and decline in eGFR in adults with CKD. The approval was based on the EMPA-KIDNEY study, which demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in hospitalization risk for CKD patients. This study is considered the first SGLT2 inhibitor CKD study to achieve this milestone.
The global CKD drug market is experiencing growth across various regions, driven by unique factors. North America currently holds the largest market share, driven by the high incidence of CKD in the United States.
Leading companies in the CKD pharmaceutical industry are actively developing novel therapeutic approaches to improve renal disease management and address cardiorenal metabolic syndrome. Key players in the global CKD drugs market include:
* F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
* Pfizer, Inc.
* Sanofi
* GSK plc
* Kissei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
* AbbVie Inc.
* Akebia Therapeutics, Inc.
* AstraZeneca
* Amgen Inc.
* Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Recent noteworthy developments in the industry include:
* In July 2023, Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company announced that Jardiance (empagliflozin) received authorization from the European Commission (EC) for the treatment of individuals with CKD.
* In July 2022, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. and Ionis Pharmaceuticals partnered to license the latter company’s experimental immunoglobulin therapy candidate, IONIS-FB-LRx, for rare kidney disease. This disease, a nephropathy, can lead to renal failure and CKD.
The market segmentation for CKD drugs encompasses various aspects, including:
*
Drug Class:
ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin-II Receptor Blockers, Calcium Channel Blockers, Beta Blockers, Erythropoiesis-stimulating Agents (ESAs), Diuretics, Others*
End-user:
Hospitals, Specialty Clinics*
Region:
North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & AfricaThe global CKD drug market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by ongoing research and development, the introduction of innovative treatment options, and the growing awareness of CKD as a significant public health concern.
