Market Overview:
Scopolamine is an anticholinergic alkaloid extracted from plants in the nightshade family, primarily Datura and Atropa species. It is primarily used for treating motion sickness and postoperative nausea and vomiting. Scopolamine patches such as Transderm Scop are commonly used to prevent motion sickness caused during travel by air, sea, or land. It works by blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain to reduce nausea and vomiting.
Market Dynamics:
One of the major drivers fueling the growth of scopolamine market is rising incidence of motion sickness during travel. According to Investor’s Business Daily, nearly 75% of people experience motion sickness when traveling by sea, air, or land. The adoption of scopolamine patches to prevent motion sickness symptoms during travel is increasing significantly. For instance, Transderm Scop patch is commonly prescribed by doctors worldwide for preventing motion sickness. In addition, increased usage of scopolamine for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is also contributing to the market growth. Postoperative nausea and vomiting is a common complication of surgery and many patients are administered scopolamine for prevention of PONV in combination with other drugs.
The global Scopolamine Market Share is estimated to be valued at US$ 3676.85 Bn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Segment Analysis
The global scopolamine market is dominated by the patch segment. Scopolamine patches help prevent motion sickness more effectively and for longer durations as compared to tablets and capsules. The drug is delivered continuously through the skin, maintaining a steady dose in the bloodstream for up to 3 days. Scopolamine patches have emerged as the preferred formulation owing to their ease of use, convenience and sustained release of the drug.
PEST Analysis
Political: Regulations regarding narcotics and controlled substances are quite stringent for scopolamine due to its adverse side effects. This has led to availability issues in some regions.
Economic: Growth in marine and cruise industries is driving demand for effective motion sickness drugs. Increasing disposable incomes in developing nations are also boosting market growth.
Social: Rising awareness about lifestyle diseases and the availability of various treatment options are supporting the market expansion. However, adverse effects associated with scopolamine discourage its usage.
Technological: Novel drug delivery mechanisms like transdermal patches ensure sustained and controlled drug release, reducing instances of overdose and side effects. This has enhanced patient acceptability.
Key Takeaways
The global scopolamine market is expected to witness high growth, exhibiting CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period, due to increasing prevalence of motion sickness. The market size for 2023 is estimated at US$ 3676.85 billion.
Regional analysis shows that North America dominates the scopolamine market, owing to a high number of cruise passengers and growth in marine tourism in countries like the US. Europe also captures a significant share due to a rise in seaborne vacations. However, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing regional market with increasing disposable incomes and availability of effective treatments in countries like China and India.
Key players operating in the scopolamine market are Baxter International Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc, Novartis AG, Perrigo Company plc, Caleb Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Myungmoon Pharma Co. LTD., Alchem International, Phytex Australia, Centroflora-Cms, Alkaloids of Australia, and Fine Chemicals Corporation. These players are focused on expanding their product portfolios and geographic presence through acquisitions and partnerships in high-growth markets.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.