Global Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment Market By Type (IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-S, and IBS-U), By Drug Class (Linzess/Constella, Xifaxan, Viberzi, Amitiza, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, and Others), By Region, and Key Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment Market Size is expected to be worth around US$ 8.4 Billion by 2034, from US$ 3.5 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market is experiencing steady growth due to increasing prevalence of IBS, rising awareness about gastrointestinal disorders, and advancements in treatment options. The global burden of IBS is significant, with millions affected by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, driving demand for effective therapies.

Key market drivers include improved diagnostic techniques, rising healthcare expenditure, and growing adoption of personalized medicine. According to the study, in April 2020 more than 1 in every 4 adults in US, Canada and UK has one of the 6 functional bowel disorders.

However, challenges such as high treatment costs, side effects of medications, and lack of definitive cure hinder growth. Additionally, alternative treatments like dietary modifications and psychological therapies pose competition.

Overall, the IBS treatment market is poised for continued expansion, fuelled by novel drug developments, increasing R&D investment, and greater patient awareness, despite regulatory hurdles and competition from non-pharmaceutical interventions.

Key Takeaways

• The global irritable bowel syndrome treatment market was valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to register substantial growth of USD 8.4 billion by 2034, with a 9.1% CAGR.
• In 2024, the IBS-D segment took the lead in the global market, securing 34.2% of the total revenue share.
• The Linzess/Constella segment took the lead in the global market, securing 32.4% of the total revenue share.
• The hospital pharmacy segment took the lead in the global market, securing 44.7% of the total revenue share.
• North America maintained its leading position in the global market with a share of over 38.5% of the total revenue.

Type Analysis

Based on type the market is fragmented into IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-S, and IBS-U. Amongst these, the IBS-D segment dominated the global irritable bowel syndrome treatment market capturing a significant market share of 34.2% in 2024 due to its high prevalence, significant patient burden, and increasing demand for targeted therapies.

Factors such as dietary changes, stress, and gut microbiome imbalances contribute to the rising incidence of IBS-D, driving the need for effective treatment options. The segment’s dominance is further supported by the availability of approved medications, such as rifaximin, eluxadoline, and alosetron, which specifically address IBS-D symptoms.

Additionally, growing awareness, increasing healthcare expenditures, and advancements in gut-brain axis research have accelerated market expansion. The pharmaceutical industry continues to invest in innovative therapies, including probiotics, serotonin receptor modulators, and microbiome-based treatments, further strengthening the segment’s market share.

Drug Class Analysis

The market is fragmented by drug class into linzess/constella, xifaxan, viberzi, amitiza, and others. The linzess/constella segment dominated the global irritable bowel syndrome treatment market capturing a significant market share of 32.4% in 2024. Linzess (marketed as Constella in Europe) is a guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonist that enhances intestinal fluid secretion and transit, providing significant symptom relief. Its widespread adoption, strong clinical efficacy, and long-term safety profile have driven its market dominance.

Additionally, increasing awareness, improved diagnostic rates, and the growing prevalence of IBS-C, particularly among women and the aging population, have fueled demand. Furthermore, expanding research and development activities, new product development and approval are further contributing to the growth of the irritable bowel syndrome treatment market.

• AbbVie has announced the submission of a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for linaclotide (LINZESS®) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), seeking approval for its use in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years with functional constipation (FC). Developed and marketed by AbbVie and Ironwood Pharmaceuticals in the United States, LINZESS is currently approved for adults with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). This submission marks a potential expansion of LINZESS’s therapeutic use, addressing an unmet need for pediatric patients suffering from FC. 

Distribution Channel Analysis

The market is fragmented by distribution channels into hospital pharmacy, retail pharmacy, and others. Hospital pharmacy held a high share in the global irritable bowel syndrome treatment market capturing a significant market share of 44.7% in 2024. The segment growth was driven by the increasing hospitalization rates of severe IBS cases, the availability of specialized treatments, and the presence of advanced diagnostic facilities.

Patients with severe or refractory IBS symptoms, including those with IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) or IBS with constipation (IBS-C), often seek treatment in hospital settings, where physicians prescribe targeted medications such as Linzess (linaclotide), Viberzi (eluxadoline), and Xifaxan (rifaximin). Hospital pharmacies also stock intravenous and prescription-only treatments, ensuring access to specialized care and expert consultations.

Additionally, higher patient trust in hospital-based treatment, improved insurance coverage, and government initiatives to enhance healthcare infrastructure contribute to the segment’s dominance. The growing prevalence of IBS, advancements in pharmacological therapies, and increased awareness among healthcare providers further solidify the hospital pharmacy segment as a key distribution channel in the IBS treatment market.

Key Segments Analysis

By Type

• IBS-D
• IBS-C
• IBS-S
• IBS-U

By Drug Class

• Linzess/Constella
• Xifaxan
• Viberzi
• Amitiza
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacy
• Retail Pharmacy
• Others

Drivers

Increasing Cases of Stomach Diseases among Elderly Population

​The global elderly population has been steadily increasing, with individuals aged 65 and above constituting approximately 10.2% of the world’s population in 2023. This demographic shift has led to a rise in age-related health issues, particularly stomach diseases, which are more prevalent among older adults. For instance, conditions such as achlorhydria and the absence of stomach acid affect about 5% of individuals over 60 and 12% of those over 80.

Additionally, helicobacter pylori infections, associated with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, are more common in older populations, with early-age infections leading to more severe outcomes. These gastrointestinal disorders contribute to the increased incidence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) among the elderly. The heightened prevalence of IBS in this age group has driven the demand for effective treatments, thereby propelling the growth of the global IBS treatment market.

Pharmaceutical companies are responding by developing therapies tailored to the unique needs of older adults, aiming to improve their quality of life and manage the specific challenges posed by aging-related gastrointestinal conditions.​

• According to the United Nations Population Fund’s India Ageing Report 2023, the proportion of individuals aged 60 years and above is projected to double, rising from 10.5% (14.9 crore as of July 1, 2022) to 20.8% (34.7 crore) by 2050. With one in five Indians expected to be a senior citizen, this demographic shift will have significant implications for the country’s healthcare system, economy, and society, emphasizing the need for improved elderly care and policy planning. 

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the proportion of people aged 60 years and older is expected to increase significantly. By 2030, one in six individuals globally will be aged 60 or above, with the population in this age group expanding from 1 billion in 2020 to 1.4 billion. By 2050, this figure is anticipated to double to 2.1 billion, while the number of individuals aged 80 and above is expected to triple, reaching 426 million. This aging trend highlights the growing demand for elderly-focused healthcare services and treatments.

Restraints

Growing Preference for Natural Remedies

The growing availability and growing preference for natural remedies are restraining the growth of the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market, as many patients opt for dietary modifications, herbal supplements, and stress management techniques instead of pharmaceutical treatments. Non-pharmacological approaches are increasingly recognized for their effectiveness in managing IBS symptoms, and reducing the reliance on prescription medications.

• A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition in February 2021 examined 12 research papers and concluded that following a low-FODMAP diet led to a roughly 34% reduction in the severity of IBS symptoms. Additionally, a separate analysis of seven studies indicated a 31% decrease in overall IBS symptoms, reinforcing the diet’s effectiveness as a primary treatment approach.
• A study published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility in April 2020, revealed that after eight weeks of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), over 70% of participants reported significant IBS symptom improvement.

These findings demonstrate that dietary interventions, stress reduction, probiotics, and herbal supplements can provide effective symptom relief without the side effects associated with conventional IBS medications. As awareness of these natural remedies grows, patients are increasingly prioritizing holistic approaches, thereby limiting the adoption and market expansion of pharmaceutical IBS treatments.

Opportunities

R&D Activities to Improve IBS Drugs

The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market is experiencing significant growth, driven by ongoing research and development (R&D) activities aimed at improving drug efficacy, safety, and patient outcomes. With millions of people globally affected by IBS, pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in innovative drug formulations, microbiome-based therapies, and gut-brain axis research to develop more targeted treatments.

Recent advancements in IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant IBS) and IBS-C (constipation-predominant IBS) therapies have led to new drug approvals and expanded indications for existing medications like LINZESS (linaclotide), Xifaxan (rifaximin), and Viberzi (eluxadoline). Additionally, biologic drugs and personalized medicine approaches are emerging, offering promising solutions for patients with treatment-resistant IBS.

• Collaborations between leading pharmaceutical companies have also accelerated R&D. For example, In October 2023, Sanofi and Teva Pharmaceuticals’ partnership to develop anti-TL1A therapy (TEV’574) for inflammatory bowel diseases showcases industry efforts to address unmet medical needs. Furthermore, advancements in gut microbiome therapies, dietary interventions, and neuromodulators are creating new opportunities for drug development.

With a rising global prevalence of IBS, increasing awareness, and regulatory support for novel treatments, R&D activities will continue to drive innovation and expand market opportunities, ultimately improving patient care and quality of life.

Impact of macroeconomic factors / Geopolitical factors

Macroeconomic factors such as healthcare expenditure, economic stability, and income levels significantly influence the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market. In regions with robust economies, higher healthcare spending facilitates better access to advanced IBS treatments, fostering market growth. Conversely, in developing economies, limited healthcare budgets and lower disposable incomes can restrict access to these treatments, hindering market expansion. Geopolitical factors, including trade policies, regulatory environments, and political stability, also play crucial roles.

Stable political climates and favorable trade agreements encourage pharmaceutical investments and the availability of IBS medications. In contrast, regions experiencing political unrest or stringent regulatory barriers may face disruptions in the supply chain and reduced availability of treatments, thereby impeding market growth. Additionally, global events like pandemics can shift healthcare priorities and resources, temporarily affecting the focus on IBS treatment development and accessibility.​

Trends

​The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market is witnessing several key trends, driven by advancements in pharmaceutical research, digital health, and alternative therapies. One major trend is the development of novel drug therapies, including gut-brain axis modulators, microbiome-based treatments, and biologics, aimed at providing more targeted and effective symptom relief. The FDA’s approval of LINZESS for pediatric use highlights the market’s expansion beyond adults.

Additionally, the integration of digital health solutions, such as telemedicine, mobile health apps, and AI-driven diagnostics, is improving patient accessibility to IBS management. Another significant trend is the growing preference for non-pharmacological approaches, including low-FODMAP diets, probiotics, and stress management techniques such as hypnotherapy and mindfulness, as supported by clinical research. Strategic collaborations, such as the Sanofi-Teva partnership to develop anti-TL1A therapy (TEV’574) for inflammatory bowel diseases, further reflect the industry’s focus on innovation and addressing unmet patient needs.

Regional Analysis

North America held the largest market share, driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high disease prevalence, strong pharmaceutical R&D, and favourable reimbursement policies. The United States leads this growth due to the rising number of IBS cases, with an estimated 10 – 15% of the adult population affected.

• According to the National Institutes of Health, IBS affects billions of people globally and affects between 25 and 45 million people in the United States. Out of the total affected population, about 2 in 3 IBS sufferers are female and 1 in 3 IBS sufferers are male.

Increased awareness and early diagnosis have contributed to the higher adoption of prescription medications such as LINZESS (linaclotide), Viberzi (eluxadoline), and Xifaxan (rifaximin), which are widely prescribed for IBS-C and IBS-D. North America’s pharmaceutical industry is at the forefront of developing innovative treatments, including microbiome-based therapies, gut-brain axis modulators, and biologics.

Companies such as AbbVie, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, and Bausch Health continue to invest in novel drug formulations and clinical trials. The region also benefits from strong insurance coverage and reimbursement programs, ensuring broader patient access to IBS treatments. Additionally, the growing adoption of non-pharmacological solutions, such as low-FODMAP diets, probiotics, and digital health applications, complements the pharmaceutical market.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Netherland
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The global irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment market is marked by intense competition, with major pharmaceutical companies striving to expand their presence through drug innovation and strategic alliances. Industry leaders like AbbVie, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Bausch Health, and AstraZeneca have established dominance by providing targeted therapies for IBS subtypes, including IBS-C and IBS-D.

To stay competitive, these companies are heavily investing in research and development, particularly in microbiome-based treatments and gut-brain axis modulators designed to improve therapeutic outcomes. Alongside pharmaceutical solutions, the growing adoption of natural and non-pharmacological remedies, such as probiotics and dietary strategies, is posing a challenge to traditional treatment methods. As a result, innovation and patient-focused approaches are becoming crucial for companies seeking to differentiate themselves in this evolving market.

A Japan-based global biopharmaceutical leader, Takeda specializes in gastroenterology, oncology, neuroscience, and rare diseases. The company has a strong presence in the IBS market with drugs such as Amitiza (lubiprostone) and Motegrity (prucalopride), focusing on gut health and motility disorders. In addition to this, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc. a U.S.-based pharmaceutical company, is best known for LINZESS (linaclotide), a leading treatment for IBS-C and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). The company continues to expand its pipeline through R&D and strategic collaborations to enhance its presence in the GI disease segment.

Top Key Players in the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment Market

• Allergan plc
• Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
• Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Salix Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Ardelyx Inc.
• Astellas Pharma Inc.
• Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Sebela Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• RedHill Biopharma Ltd.
• Pfizer Inc.
• Probi AB

Recent Developments

• In June 2023, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had approved a new indication for LINZESS (linaclotide), expanding its use to pediatric patients aged 6 to 17 years for the treatment of functional constipation. This approval builds on LINZESS’s existing role in treating constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) in adults. The decision was based on positive clinical trial data, providing an effective treatment option for children and improving their quality of life.

• In October 2023, Sanofi and Teva Pharmaceuticals announced a strategic partnership to develop TEV’574, a novel anti-TL1A therapy aimed at treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. This collaboration underscores the companies’ commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in the IBS treatment market, with TEV’574 currently undergoing clinical trials.

Report Scope