Global Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market Analysis By Treatment Type (Prophylactic Treatment, Rescue Treatment), By Drug Class (5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists, NK1 Receptor Antagonists, Corticosteroids, Benzodiazepines), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies), By Patient Demographics (Adults, Pediatrics), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market size is expected to be worth around USD 5808.1 Million by 2033, from USD 3259.8 Million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 6.01% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

Nausea and vomiting are side effects caused by cancer treatment and affect most patients who undergo chemotherapy. Radiation therapy to the brain, gastrointestinal tract, or liver also causes nausea and vomiting. Nausea and vomiting caused by Radiotherapy (RT) are not that severe as compared to those caused by chemotherapy, where nausea and vomiting can last for several days in certain cases. These side effects are clinically important and can be painful for patients. Depending on the site of irradiation, more than 40% of patients that undergo radiotherapy will experience nausea and vomiting.

Fractionated radiotherapy treatment may comprise up to 40 fractions over a 6 to 8-week period, and prolonged symptoms of nausea and vomiting affect life quality. Furthermore, intractable nausea and vomiting may result in patients refusing or delaying further radiotherapy treatment. The prevalence and severity of nausea and vomiting depend on RT-related factors including irradiated site, total dose, irradiated volume, etc., and patient-related factors such as gender, age and health condition, recent chemotherapy treatments, etc. Published observational trials on Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (RINV) highlight that the cumulative incidence of vomiting and nausea is for 1/3rd of the patients undergoing radiotherapy.

As per the document presented by the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) and the European Society of Clinical Oncology (ESMO), various patients in Europe are unable to receive adequate treatment for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) due to excessive regulatory restrictions on the availability as well as the accessibility of drugs.

Key Takeaways

• The market is projected to grow from USD 3259.8 million in 2023 to USD 5808.1 million by 2033, with a CAGR of 6.01%.
• Prophylactic treatment leads the market with a 71.4% share in 2023, favored for its preventive efficacy in clinical settings.
• 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists dominate the drug class, comprising 53.7% of the market due to their effectiveness and safety.
• Hospital pharmacies are the primary distribution channel, accounting for over 53.7% of the market share in 2023.
• Adults are the main demographic for treatment, representing more than 68.3% of the market in 2023.
• The increasing global cancer incidence drives the market, necessitating effective management of radiotherapy side effects.
• Side effects of antiemetic drugs, like headaches and constipation, challenge market growth by affecting patient compliance.
• NK1 receptor antagonists present new market opportunities by improving quality of life for patients receiving radiotherapy.
• North America leads the market with a value of USD 1140.9 million in 2023, driven by advanced healthcare and high spending.
• The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing, driven by increasing healthcare awareness and government support for healthcare modernization.

Treatment Type Analysis

In 2023, the Treatment Type segment held a dominant market position in the Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market, capturing more than a 71.4% share. This segment is divided into two key categories: Prophylactic Treatment and Rescue Treatment. Prophylactic Treatment, which involves preventive measures to avoid the onset of nausea and vomiting, accounted for the majority of the market share due to its widespread adoption in clinical settings. The increasing preference for prophylactic measures among healthcare professionals and patients has driven significant growth in this segment.

Prophylactic treatments are preferred to reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting, thereby improving the quality of life for patients undergoing radiotherapy. This approach has been supported by clinical guidelines and recommendations, further boosting its market penetration. On the other hand, Rescue Treatment, used to manage symptoms after they occur, remains crucial but occupies a smaller market share. This segment caters to patients who experience breakthrough symptoms despite preventive measures, highlighting the need for effective rescue therapies.

Drug Class Analysis

In 2023, the 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists segment held a dominant market position in the drug class segment of the Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market, capturing more than a 53.7% share. This dominance is attributed to the high efficacy of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists in managing acute nausea and vomiting induced by radiotherapy. These drugs are widely prescribed due to their favorable safety profile and the significant clinical evidence supporting their use.

The NK1 Receptor Antagonists segment is also witnessing notable growth, driven by their effectiveness in controlling delayed nausea and vomiting. In 2023, this segment accounted for a substantial portion of the market, propelled by increasing adoption in combination therapy regimens. Corticosteroids, another key segment, contributed significantly to the market, primarily due to their synergistic effects when used with other antiemetics. Benzodiazepines, although holding a smaller share, remain important for their anxiolytic properties, often used adjunctively to enhance patient comfort.

Distribution Channel Analysis

In 2023, the Hospital Pharmacies segment held a dominant market position in the Distribution Channel segment of the Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market, capturing more than a 53.7% share. This dominance is attributed to the increasing number of hospital visits by cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, leading to a higher demand for immediate and effective antiemetic treatments provided by hospital pharmacies.

The Retail Pharmacies segment accounted for a significant market share, driven by the accessibility and convenience of purchasing over-the-counter and prescription antiemetic drugs. Retail pharmacies offer an alternative for patients who seek outpatient treatment options, contributing to a notable portion of the market revenue.

Online Pharmacies have emerged as a growing distribution channel, particularly favored by patients preferring home delivery services for their medication needs. The segment witnessed a steady growth rate due to the rising adoption of e-commerce platforms, ensuring ease of access and availability of antiemetic treatments. The convenience and competitive pricing offered by online pharmacies are anticipated to drive further growth in this segment.

Patient Demographics Analysis

In 2023, the Adults segment held a dominant market position in the Patient Demographics Segment of the Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market, capturing more than a 68.3% share. This significant market share can be attributed to the high prevalence of cancer in adults, leading to a higher demand for radiotherapy and associated antiemetic treatments. Furthermore, adults generally undergo more frequent and intensive radiotherapy sessions compared to pediatric patients, increasing the incidence of nausea and vomiting.

The Pediatric segment, while smaller, is expected to witness steady growth due to increasing awareness and diagnosis of pediatric cancers. Although this segment accounted for less than 31.7% of the market share in 2023, advancements in pediatric oncology and tailored treatment protocols are projected to drive market expansion. Additionally, the introduction of child-friendly antiemetic formulations and supportive care measures are anticipated to enhance treatment adherence and effectiveness in this demographic.

Key Market Segments

Treatment Type

• Prophylactic Treatment
• Rescue Treatment

Drug Class

• 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists
• NK1 Receptor Antagonists
• Corticosteroids
• Benzodiazepines

Distribution Channel

• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies

Patient Demographics

• Adults
• Pediatrics

Drivers

Increased Incidence of Cancer

The increased global incidence of cancer is a significant driver for the market of treatments for radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV). The World Health Organization reports nearly 10 million deaths from cancer in 2020, underlining the pervasive nature of the disease. The Cancer Research UK highlights that there were 18.1 million new cancer cases globally in 2020, with projections estimating a rise to 28 million by 2040.

This escalating prevalence necessitates more frequent and intensive cancer treatments, including radiotherapy, which is known to often result in nausea and vomiting as side effects. Consequently, as the number of cancer cases rises, so does the demand for effective RINV treatments to manage these side effects, ensuring patient comfort and adherence to life-saving radiotherapy protocols.

Restraints

Adverse Side Effects of Antiemetic Drugs

The treatment market for Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (RINV) faces significant challenges due to the adverse side effects of antiemetic drugs, which serve as a major restraint on market growth. These drugs, primarily 5-HT3 receptor antagonists like ondansetron and granisetron, are commonly used to manage nausea and vomiting associated with radiotherapy. Despite their effectiveness in controlling emesis, these drugs can induce side effects such as headaches, constipation, and fatigue, which can significantly affect patient compliance and comfort​​.

Studies show that the incidence of RINV can be quite high, affecting up to 50-80% of patients undergoing radiotherapy, depending on the emetic risk of the radiation site​. The adverse effects of the antiemetic drugs often lead to additional complications such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, making the management of these symptoms particularly challenging​​.

The combination of high incidence of nausea and the potential for significant side effects from the treatments underscores the need for advancements in RINV management strategies that can offer effective relief with fewer adverse outcomes. This need directly impacts the market by limiting the adoption of existing treatments and highlighting the demand for innovation in therapeutic options.

Opportunities

Advancements in Drug Development

Advancements in the development of antiemetic drugs, specifically neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonists, present significant opportunities in the market for treating radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV). These newer classes of antiemetics have been shown to improve the quality of life for patients by effectively managing nausea and vomiting, common side effects of radiotherapy. For example, the use of NK1 receptor antagonists like aprepitant has demonstrated efficacy in reducing episodes of nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing radiotherapy, particularly in those receiving treatment for upper abdominal cancers​.

Recent studies highlight the effectiveness of these drugs when used in conjunction with other antiemetics like ondansetron and dexamethasone, providing a more comprehensive approach to managing RINV​. This approach not only enhances patient comfort but also supports better adherence to cancer treatment regimens, thereby potentially improving outcomes. The integration of NK1 receptor antagonists into clinical practice is supported by guidelines from major oncology societies, which recommend their use based on evidence showing reduced incidence and severity of RINV​.

Trends

Increased Incidence of Cancer

The increasing incidence of cancer represents a significant trend impacting the market for Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (RINV) treatment. Current projections indicate that by 2024, the U.S. will witness more than 2 million new cancer cases annually, marking a notable rise in the prevalence of this disease​​. This uptick is partly attributed to demographic shifts and heightened exposure to risk factors over successive generations, leading to earlier onset of the disease​.

Research highlights a growing incidence among younger populations, particularly evident in certain cancer types like colorectal, which has become the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50​​​. This trend is concerning because the younger demographics are increasingly contributing to the overall cancer burden, with a noted rise in diagnoses among those under 50 years of age​.

As cancer incidence rates climb, particularly among these younger groups, the demand for effective RINV management is expected to increase. This underscores the need for continued advancement in treatment options to address the side effects of cancer therapies, including radiotherapy, which remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment. The trend towards younger age at diagnosis necessitates a focus on developing and integrating new antiemetic drugs that are both effective and tolerable, ensuring that patients maintain a better quality of life during their treatment journey.

Regional Analysis

In 2023, North America held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35% share and holds USD 1140.9 Million market value for the year. This prominence can be attributed to the region’s advanced healthcare infrastructure, high healthcare spending, and the significant adoption of novel radiotherapy techniques. The presence of major pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the region, coupled with favorable reimbursement policies, further stimulates market growth.

Europe follows closely, driven by increasing cancer prevalence, governmental support for cancer research, and the integration of radiotherapy in treatment protocols across multiple nations. The European market is also buoyed by collaborations between public and private sectors aimed at enhancing cancer treatment facilities.

The Asia-Pacific region is identified as the fastest-growing market, owing to rising healthcare awareness, improving healthcare facilities, and increasing disposable incomes. Countries like China, Japan, and India are spearheading this growth, facilitated by government initiatives aimed at modernizing healthcare infrastructure and increasing the accessibility of advanced cancer treatments.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa regions, while holding smaller shares, are anticipated to witness moderate growth. This is due to improving healthcare infrastructure, rising medical tourism in these regions, and increasing government initiatives to overhaul cancer care pathways. The market in these areas is expected to expand as regional governments and healthcare providers continue to invest in healthcare advancements and cancer research.

Key Regions

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Portugal
  • Ireland
  • Austria
  • Switzerland
  • Benelux
  • Nordic
  • Rest of Western Europe
• Eastern Europe
  • Russia
  • Poland
  • The Czech Republic
  • Greece
  • Rest of Eastern Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Colombia
  • Chile
  • Argentina
  • Costa Rica
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Israel
  • Kuwait
  • Nigeria
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

In the Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Market, several key entities play pivotal roles. Heron Therapeutics Inc. leads with innovative treatments that specifically target nausea and vomiting pathways, catering effectively to patient needs and securing a prominent market position. TESARO, now under GSK, enhances the market with robust research capabilities and a focus on oncology, ensuring reliability and safety in their therapeutic offerings.

Helsinn Healthcare SA stands out with a strong antiemetic portfolio used widely in cancer care, supported by a robust distribution network that underscores its market strength. Merck & Co. Inc. utilizes its global reach and research prowess to provide a variety of effective anti-nausea medications, crucial for managing cancer treatment side effects. Additionally, other key players contribute to market diversity through niche focuses and innovative technologies, enriching the treatment landscape. Collectively, these players are integral to the ongoing development and accessibility of effective treatments, fostering sustained market growth and innovation.

Market Key Players

• Heron Therapeutics Inc.
• TESARO (a GSK company)
• Helsinn Healthcare SA
• Merck & Co. Inc.
• Amgen Inc.
• Fresenius Kabi AG
• Mylan N.V.
• Baxter International Inc.
• Kyowa Kirin Co. Ltd.
• CinnaGen Co.

Recent Developments

• March 2024: Fresenius Kabi AG acquired a smaller pharmaceutical company specializing in cancer supportive care products, including treatments for radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. This acquisition is intended to strengthen their market presence and expand their product line in this niche area.
• January 2024: The FDA approved a new indication for ZYNRELEF, a drug used for postoperative pain management, to include additional orthopedic and soft tissue procedures. This approval expanded the use of ZYNRELEF beyond its initial indications, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing pain and opioid consumption post-surgery​.
• January 2024: GSK reported strong performance in 2023, underlined by the launch of key products and significant progress in its R&D pipeline. Noteworthy developments included advancements in treatments for HIV and endometrial cancer, and new vaccines like Arexvy for RSV prevention​.
• March 2023: Merck announced a significant acquisition of Imago BioSciences, Inc. for approximately $1.35 billion. This acquisition is part of Merck’s strategy to enhance its pipeline, including treatments in oncology that could relate to supportive care like managing radiotherapy-induced conditions​.

Report Scope