Introduction to Sucrose in Pharmaceuticals
Sucrose, a non-reducing crystalline disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose, is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is extracted primarily from sugar cane and sugar beets and plays a crucial role in various pharmaceutical applications, including the stabilization of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates[3].
Market Size and Forecast
The global sugar-based excipients market, which includes sucrose, is projected to experience significant growth over the coming years.
- By 2028, the market is expected to reach USD 1,542.5 million at a CAGR of 4.5%[2].
- As of 2023, the market was valued at USD 1,068.41 million and is forecasted to reach USD 1,707.46 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.8%[5].
Regional Market Dynamics
Europe
Europe has historically commanded a major share of the global sugar excipients market. This dominance is attributed to increasing investments in drug development, the production of generic drugs, and favorable government initiatives in the region[1].
North America
North America is the second-largest market for sugar excipients. The presence of a large number of global pharmaceutical companies and the increasing demand for generic drugs due to the patent expiration of blockbuster drugs are key factors driving growth in this region[1].
Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the significant expansion of the regional healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, growing scientific capabilities, favorable government policies, and low-cost manufacturing advantages[1][2].
Key Drivers of Market Growth
Increasing Use of Co-Processed Excipients
The use of co-processed excipients to enhance dissolution, bioavailability, and solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is a significant driver of market growth[2][5].
Growth in Generics Market
The rapid growth of the generics market, driven by the patent expiration of several blockbuster drugs, is another key factor propelling the market forward[1][5].
Development of Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODTs)
The increasing development and demand for orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) also contribute to the market's growth. Sucrose is widely used in these formulations due to its non-toxicity and high efficiency[2][5].
Government Initiatives
Government initiatives to support the production and development of sugar-based excipients are expected to boost market revenue growth over the forecast period[2].
Market Segments
Actual Sugar Segment
The actual sugar segment is expected to account for a significant revenue share in the global market. This is due to its increased utilization in oral prescription medicines and pediatric formulations, where its non-toxicity and high efficiency are particularly beneficial[2][5].
Coatings Powders/Granules Segment
The coatings powders/granules segment is anticipated to register a robust revenue CAGR over the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing applications in medical and pharmaceutical industries, the expansion of generic medicines, and the growing pediatric population[2].
Challenges and Limitations
Regulatory Requirements
Increased regulatory requirements leading to a shortage of FDA-approved manufacturing sites are expected to hinder market growth. Stringent quality control procedures and pricing pressure faced by key players are also major challenges for this industry[1].
Quality and Impurity Issues
High costs of sugar-based excipients and issues with quality and impurities present in these excipients are additional factors that could hamper market growth to some extent[2].
Applications of Sucrose in Pharmaceuticals
Monoclonal Antibody (mAbs) Stabilization
Sucrose is used to stabilize monoclonal antibodies, antibody drug conjugates, and peptides throughout the formulation and freeze/thaw lifecycle of therapeutics[3].
Media Supplementation
It serves as a media supplement in various cell-based bioprocesses, including stem cell preservation and vaccine stabilization[3].
Cryopreservation
Sucrose is preferred over trehalose in applications where solubility and viscosity issues are critical, making it a valuable cryopreservative[3].
Financial Trajectory
The financial trajectory of the sugar-based excipients market, including sucrose, is positive and growth-oriented.
- The market is expected to grow from USD 1,068.41 million in 2023 to USD 1,707.46 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 4.8%[5].
- The actual sugar segment alone is projected to reach a revenue share of USD 750.5 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 4.4%[5].
Key Takeaways
- The global sugar-based excipients market, driven by sucrose, is expected to grow significantly over the next decade.
- Key drivers include the increasing use of co-processed excipients, growth in the generics market, and the development of ODTs.
- Regional growth is expected to be robust in Asia-Pacific due to favorable government policies and low-cost manufacturing.
- Despite challenges such as regulatory requirements and quality issues, the market is poised for substantial expansion.
FAQs
What is the projected market size of the global sugar-based excipients market by 2033?
The global sugar-based excipients market is expected to reach USD 1,707.46 million by 2033[5].
Which region is expected to witness the highest growth rate in the sugar-based excipients market?
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period[1][2].
What are the primary applications of sucrose in the pharmaceutical industry?
Sucrose is used for monoclonal antibody stabilization, media supplementation, cryopreservation, and in the formulation of orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs)[3].
What are the key challenges facing the sugar-based excipients market?
Key challenges include increased regulatory requirements, high costs, and issues with quality and impurities[1][2].
How does the use of co-processed excipients impact the market?
The use of co-processed excipients enhances dissolution, bioavailability, and solubility of APIs, driving market growth[2][5].
Sources
- MarketsandMarkets: Sugar-Based Excipients Market Revenue Forecast
- BioSpace: Sugar-based Excipients Market Size to Reach USD 1,542.5 Million in 2028
- Pharmaceutical Technology: Sucrose
- BioSpace: Pharmaceutical Excipients Market Size USD 14.72 Billion by 2033
- GlobeNewswire: Combined Sales of Sugar-based Excipients Market Will Cross US$ 1707.46 Million by 2033
