The global acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market is driven by advancements in thrombolytic therapy. AIS, commonly known as a stroke, occurs due to lack of blood supply to the brain caused by thrombosis or arterial embolism. Thrombolysis is a pharmacological treatment administered by dissolving clots to restore blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. The advancement from first generation thrombolytic drugs to newer generation drugs have expanded the therapeutic time window. For instance, alteplase, commonly known as tPA is the most widely used thrombolytic drug with a narrow treatment window of 4.5 hours. However, recent trials have shown promising results of drugs like desmoteplase extending the treatment window up to 9 hours post-stroke onset.
The global acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market is estimated to be valued at US$ 21 billion in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 18% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics:
Advancements in thrombolytic therapy is one of the major drivers of the AIS market. As mentioned previously, extending the therapeutic window from 4.5 hours to 9 hours using newer generation thrombolytic drugs like desmoteplase allows treatment of larger number of AIS patients. This significantly improves clinical outcomes and reduces post-stroke disabilities. According to World Health Organization, over 80% of stroke deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries due to lack of access to timely treatment. Widening the treatment window using new-age thrombolytic drugs can help in increasing access to care in underprivileged regions.
Another driver is the growing adoption of mechanical thrombectomy procedures for AIS treatment. Mechanical thrombectomy involves removal of the blood clot using catheters and stents and has demonstrated better recanalization rates compared to intravenous thrombolysis alone. While thrombolytic drugs dissolve clots, mechanical thrombectomy physically removes clots and restores blood flow more rapidly. Recent consensus guidelines from American Heart Association/American Stroke Association have recommended mechanical thrombectomy for eligible AIS patients within 6-24 hours. This is anticipated to further fuel the market growth during the forecast period.
Segment Analysis
The acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market size is segmented into drug class, distribution channel, and geography. The drug class segment is further divided into tissue plasminogen activator, antiplatelet, antihypertensive, and anticoagulant. The tissue plasminogen activator segment currently dominates the market due to increased approval and launches of novel recombinant tissue plasminogen activators. The distribution channel segment includes hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies have the largest market share as most AIS patients are treated in hospitals.
PEST Analysis
Political: Governments across major countries are increasing funding for stroke research to reduce disease burden. Stringent regulations are in place for drug approval to ensure patient safety.
Economic: Rising geriatric population and changing lifestyle habits increasing stroke risk is driving market growth. However, high treatment costs pose a challenge.
Social: Growing awareness about stroke signs and symptoms through social media and community programs is encouraging early diagnosis and treatment seeking.
Technological: Adoption of advanced imaging technologies, endovascular therapies, and telestroke programs for remote diagnosis are improving treatment outcomes.
Key Takeaways
The global acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period of 2023 to 2030. The global acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market is estimated to be valued at US$ 21 billion in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 18% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030.
North America currently dominates the market due to the rising prevalence of stroke and presence of advanced healthcare facilities. Key regional markets include Europe and Asia Pacific.
The key players operating in the acute ischemic stroke (AIS) market are F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Sanofi, Biogen Inc., Daiichi Sankyo Company Limited, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. F. Hoffmann-La Roche leads the market with its tissue plasminogen activator drug Actilyse. The company is also developing novel oral anticoagulants to reduce bleeding risks associated with intravenous thrombolysis.
Key players are focusing on partnerships, acquisitions, and collaborations with hospitals to enhance their geographic presence and service offerings. Growing demand for effective treatment options and government support for drugs in pipeline is expected to boost market revenue during the forecast period.