Uveitis Treatment Market

Market Overview

The global uveitis treatment market size was valued at USD 595.6 million in 2023 and is projected to reach  USD 885.1 million by 2032, registering a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The discipline of ophthalmology is undergoing a significant increase in research and development activities, contributing to the rapidly expanding uveitis treatment market share.

The underlying cause, type, and severity of inflammation determine treatment for Uveitis. Uveitis is typically treated with a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgical procedures. Individuals with Uveitis should consult closely with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals to determine the best treatment plan.

The global increase in uveitis incidence and prevalence is a key element driving the uveitis treatment market growth. Various reasons contribute to the increased prevalence of Uveitis, including autoimmune diseases, infections, and inflammatory disorders. Furthermore, uveitis therapy has advanced due to the development of novel therapies such as biologic treatments, immunosuppressants, and targeted medications.

Highlights

• Corticosteroids are a significant contributor to the market based on treatment type.
• Anterior Uveitis generates the highest revenue share based on disease type.
• Hospital pharmacies account for the largest share of the market based on distribution channels.

Market Dynamics

Global Uveitis Treatment Market Drivers:

Rising Incidence of Uveitis Treatment

The rising incidence of Uveitis is a significant driver of the global uveitis treatment market growth. Uveitis is a common ocular inflammatory condition influenced by various factors, including infectious agents, autoimmune diseases, and environmental exposure. The annual incidence of Uveitis ranges between 17 and 52 per 100,000 people, with a prevalence of 38 to 714 cases per 100,000. The incidence in the United States and Europe is estimated to be 20-50/100,000 per year. A study published in the "American Journal of Ophthalmology" highlights the growing prevalence of Uveitis in the United States. The study examined data from an extensive healthcare claims database and discovered an upward trend in the annual incidence of Uveitis over a specific period. The study emphasized the importance of effective uveitis management strategies in addressing the growing healthcare burden of the condition.

Furthermore, data from the National Eye Institute (NEI) show that Uveitis is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising incidence. The NEI emphasizes the importance of ongoing research to better understand Uveitis's causes and develop novel treatment approaches that improve patient outcomes. The increasing incidence of Uveitis underscores the need for prompt and effective treatments and allows pharmaceutical companies to invest in research and development of new therapies. As the prevalence of Uveitis rises, the market for uveitis treatment is expected to expand, with an emphasis on providing innovative solutions to meet the healthcare demands associated with this inflammatory eye disease.

Global Uveitis Treatment Market Restraints:

Limited Treatment Options for Specific Causes

Uveitis is a diverse group of inflammatory eye conditions, and developing targeted treatments for each subtype is challenging due to the variety of underlying causes. Some types of Uveitis are linked to specific etiologies, such as infections or autoimmune diseases, while others are idiopathic (of unknown cause). In infectious Uveitis, the pathogen causing the inflammation (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) varies, and targeted antimicrobial therapies are frequently used based on the pathogen. Noninfectious Uveitis, particularly idiopathic cases or those caused by systemic autoimmune conditions such as Behçet's disease, may be treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. The absence of disease-modifying therapies tailored to the specific causes of each uveitic condition poses a significant challenge.

Since there are no particular treatments for every uveitic condition, broad-spectrum therapies like corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents may be used instead. While these treatments can effectively reduce inflammation, they may not address the underlying cause in all cases. This limitation emphasizes the importance of ongoing research to identify more targeted and disease-specific treatment options, allowing for a more personalized approach to uveitis management.

Global Uveitis Treatment Market Opportunity:

Global Expansion of Uveitis Treatment Access

Opportunities for market expansion in regions where uveitis cases are underdiagnosed or undertreated can significantly impact the global uveitis treatment market. Improving healthcare infrastructure, raising awareness, and removing barriers to access are critical components of reaching underserved communities. In many developing countries, there may be a need for more specialized eye care facilities, low awareness of Uveitis, and difficulties obtaining appropriate treatment. The NCBI reports inadequate primary eye care services in most low- and middle-income countries. 

For example, a study published in the "Indian Journal of Ophthalmology" highlights the prevalence of Uveitis in India, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and diagnostic capabilities. According to a 2023 article in the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, the incidence of intermediate Uveitis in India is 1.4/100,000, with a prevalence of 0.25 percent. It emphasizes that uveitis cases are frequently misdiagnosed or treated late due to the need for eye care infrastructure in some areas.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), access to eye care services varies globally, and many regions struggle to provide adequate eye health care. Low- and middle-income countries may have limited access to skilled eye care professionals, resulting in undiagnosed and untreated eye conditions like Uveitis.

Regional Analysis

The global uveitis treatment market analysis is conducted in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global uveitis treatment market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period. This is due to various factors, including an aging population, an increase in eye-related disorders, particularly Uveitis, increased investment in uveitis research and development, and the availability of treatments. It also causes approximately 30,000 new cases of blindness in the United States each year, accounting for 10-15% of all cases of total blindness. Uveitis is among the most common causes of preventable blindness in the United States. Nearly 1 million severe eye infections occur yearly in the United States, necessitating an eye doctor or hospital visit. Most of these are due to the improper use of contact lenses. In October 2021, Fresenius Kabi, a German company, introduced an adalimumab injectable biosimilar (Idacio) in Canada. This medication is indicated for adult noninfectious uveitis, pediatric chronic noninfectious anterior Uveitis, and other conditions. The market is expected to have the largest share in the coming years because of improved healthcare services and the high number of people suffering from eye infections in this region. 

Furthermore, the market's growth is influenced by factors such as the aging population, the rising prevalence of autoimmune diseases, and the adoption of advanced treatment options. Autoimmune diseases affect roughly 3% of the US population or around 10 million people. The Office of Autoimmune Disease Research (OADR-ORWH) estimates that approximately 8% of the US population has an autoimmune disease. Further, The emphasis on patient-centered care, as well as the availability of cutting-edge medical technologies, have helped to advance uveitis treatment in North America overall.

Asia-Pacific is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period. India and China are expected to experience significant growth in the uveitis treatment industry. This is due to higher disposable income and an increase in the number of people diagnosed with Uveitis. The uveitis treatment industry is expected to grow profitably over the next few years as emerging countries like India gain more knowledge about correct etiologic diagnosis and treatment. The market combines traditional treatments with modern medical interventions in countries where Uveitis is common, such as India, China, and Japan. Leading healthcare institutions such as AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), Peking Union Medical College Hospital in China, and Tokyo Medical University in Japan contribute to uveitis research, patient care, and developing treatment strategies specific to the region.

Europe is an important region for various stakeholders to contribute to advances in uveitis treatment with its advanced healthcare infrastructure. In 2022, the EU's social protection, sickness, and healthcare spending was 8.1% of GDP. In 2022, Europe's total health expenditure per capita was approximately 8,049 US dollars in Switzerland and 8,010 US dollars in Germany.

Similarly, the numbers showed that the incidence is expected to range between 3% and 7% across Europe. In developed countries, Uveitis is thought to be caused by an organ-specific immune-inflammatory response. In contrast, infections are blamed for uveitis-related blindness in poorer areas.

Segmental Analysis

The global uveitis treatment market is segmented based on treatment, disease, and distribution channels.

The market is further segmented by treatment type into Corticosteroids, Immunosuppressants, Monoclonal Antibodies, Cycloplegic Agents, Antibiotics, Antivirals, Antifungals, and Analgesics.

Corticosteroids are a significant contributor to the market. Corticosteroids dominate the market for anterior uveitis treatment because they are the first-line therapy for the condition. Corticosteroids are a key component of uveitis treatment due to their potent anti-inflammatory properties. They can be given topically as eye drops for anterior Uveitis or systemically for more serious cases. Corticosteroids help to suppress the immune response and reduce inflammation, resulting in quick relief of symptoms. Topical corticosteroids are frequently prescribed for anterior Uveitis, whereas systemic corticosteroids may be used for posterior and panuveitis. Long-term systemic use necessitates close monitoring due to potential side effects.

Immunosuppressive medications, such as methotrexate, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil, control the immune system. They are used in noninfectious uveitis cases to keep the immune system from attacking eye tissues. Immunosuppressants are frequently prescribed when corticosteroids alone are insufficient or when long-term corticosteroid use is dangerous. They prevent disease progression and reduce the frequency of uveitic flares.

Based on disease type, the market is fragmented into Anterior Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, and Pan uveitis.

Anterior Uveitis generates the highest revenue share. The anterior uveitis sector is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, increasing the prevalence of Uveitis. Anterior Uveitis, also called iritis, affects the front part of the eye, including the iris and ciliary body. It is the most common type of Uveitis, with symptoms including eye pain, redness, and sensitivity to light. Anterior Uveitis is frequently associated with systemic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or inflammatory bowel disease. Topical corticosteroids and cycloplegic agents are used to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

Posterior Uveitis affects the back of the eye, which includes the choroid and retina. It can cause vision loss and complications like macular edema and retinal detachment. Infectious agents such as toxoplasmosis or cytomegalovirus are common causes of posterior Uveitis, and it can also be associated with autoimmune diseases. Systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and, in some cases, antiviral or antiparasitic medications are commonly used to control inflammation and prevent vision-threatening complications.

The Distribution channels can further bifurcate the market into Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies, and Drug Stores.

Hospital pharmacies account for the largest uveitis treatment market. Hospital pharmacies are an important distribution channel for uveitis treatments, particularly in severe or acute cases that require immediate attention. These pharmacies are located within healthcare institutions and provide medications prescribed by ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals who manage uveitis cases in the hospital setting. Uveitis medications, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies, are available on a timely basis from hospital pharmacies. They are critical in managing Uveitis, especially in cases requiring intravenous administration or close medical supervision.

Retail pharmacies are community-based establishments that provide uveitis medications to patients for at-home use. They are available to the general public and offer a convenient option for people with chronic or less severe forms of Uveitis who need medications on an outpatient basis. Retail pharmacies are important in ensuring patients receive prescribed uveitis medications. Patients can easily obtain topical corticosteroids, oral immunosuppressants, and other prescribed medications from retail pharmacies, which helps them stick to their treatment plans.

Impact of covid-19

The Asia Pacific has a high frequency of anterior uveitis. For example, according to research published in April 2019 in the journal Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology titled 'Epidemiology of uveitis in metropolitan Australia,' the most frequent uveitis cases were anterior (75%), intermediate (6%), posterior (15%), and panuveitis (15%). (4 percent ).

Numerous therapeutic studies have been discontinued because of the discovery of Covid-19. For example, Galapagos stated in March 2020 that it is suspending enrolment in many clinical studies, including its Phase II and Phase III filgotinib trials in Crohn's disease, psoriatic arthritis, and uveitis.

Recent Developments

• February 2024- AbbVie completed its acquisition of ImmunoGen.
• January 2024- Novartis added the largest and most advanced radioligand therapy manufacturing facility in Indianapolis to increase Pluvicto™ production capacity.
• January 2024- Japan approved Ophthalmic VEGF Inhibitor Eylea®8mg Solution for Intravitreal Injection 114.3 mg/mL.
• November 2023- ABIONYX Pharma reports new positive results in a uveitis model for the strategic development of the first class of biomedicines in ophthalmology based on its recombinant apoA-I.