Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market By Type, (Cover, Overt), By Treatment (Lactulose, Antibiotics, Probiotics, Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Liver Transplantation, Others), By Application (Hospitals, Research Institutes, Clinics, Surgical Centers) , By Region And Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, And Forecast 2024-2033

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis

The Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market was valued at USD 52.16 million in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 112.3 million by 2032, with a CAGR of 8.18% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

The surge in demand for non-pharmacological interventions and advanced treatments is one of the main driving factors for the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. Overt hepatic encephalopathy is a common reversible neurological dysfunction of cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis leads to death and is a major threat globally. Cirrhosis is the last stage of chronic liver disease. It is one of the main diseases that cause death.

According to a report published by Frontiers in August 2022, the number of death cases related to liver cirrhosis has increased by 47.15%; however, the age-standardized mortality rate (ASR) of deaths is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), consuming alcohol, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which surged with an estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of 0.17, 0.20, and 1.00, respectively.

Moreover, according to the National Library of Medicine, there are more than 2 million deaths each year, and 4% of all (1 out of every 25 deaths globally) are caused by liver-related disease, and approximately 2/3 of deaths are seen in men. Such types of chronic liver diseases fall under the grade 2-4 category of overt hepatic encephalopathy, which is life-threatening, and grade 1 is generally known as overt H.E.

Overt hepatic encephalopathy is seen in 30 to 40% of individuals who are suffering from cirrhosis, and in 10 to 50% of individuals, they have transjugular intrahepatic portal system shunts. According to the International Society for Hepatic Encephalopathy and Nitrogen Metabolism Consensus in 2023, the start of perplexity or asterixis is the beginning of overt H.E. Some of the individuals with hepatic encephalopathy have elusive symptoms that may only be seen by using specialized tests and diagnosis. Such a condition is known as minimal hepatic encephalopathy, which is seen in almost 80% of the individuals suffering from cirrhosis.

Overt hepatic encephalopathy can be avoided or slowed down by adhering to proper treatment, specifically, treatment of liver disease, avoiding consumption of alcohol, avoiding medications such as sleeping pills and anti-depressants, regular liver function tests, and most importantly, following a nutritious diet. Xifaxan is a type of oral tablet that is advised by doctors for the treatment of liver diseases. It contains the drug rifaximin, which belongs to the antibiotic drug category. It is helpful for the overt H.E. of adults. The cases of overt hepatic encephalopathy will increase due to the high level of alcohol consumption and chronic liver disorders; this will spur market expansion in the forecast period.

Driving Factors

Rising Awareness Enhances Disease Understanding

The increasing public and medical community awareness regarding hepatic encephalopathy is a critical driver for its market growth. As understanding and recognition of this liver-related brain disorder improve, more individuals are seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Educational campaigns and medical conferences are shedding light on symptoms and treatment options, leading to earlier intervention and management strategies. This heightened awareness is expected to continue promoting the market's growth as more patients and healthcare providers recognize the importance of addressing this condition promptly.

Liver Disease Knowledge Spurs Treatment Demand

Growing knowledge about liver diseases and their complications, including overt hepatic encephalopathy, is driving the market's expansion. As the medical community and the public become more informed about the consequences of liver dysfunction, there is a heightened focus on monitoring and treating related conditions. This increased awareness is leading to more frequent screenings and a higher diagnosis rate of liver conditions that can progress to hepatic encephalopathy, subsequently boosting the demand for effective treatments and management strategies.

Lifestyle Factors Impact Disease Prevalence

The rise in alcohol consumption and smoking is a contributing factor to the growth of the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. These lifestyle choices are known risk factors for liver disease, which can lead to hepatic encephalopathy. As alcohol use and smoking rates increase globally, the prevalence of liver-related health issues also rises, leading to a greater need for hepatic encephalopathy treatments. Addressing the growing incidence of conditions caused by these lifestyle factors is crucial, and as such, the market is expected to expand as healthcare systems respond to this rising need.

Restraining Factors

Limited Availability of Treatment Options for Low-Income Individuals Restrains Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Growth

The growth of the overt hepatic encephalopathy market is significantly limited by the restricted availability of treatment options for low-income individuals. Many of the treatments for hepatic encephalopathy, including medications, liver transplants, and ongoing care, are expensive and may not be covered by basic health insurance in many regions.

This financial barrier makes it difficult for low-income patients to access the necessary care, leading to untreated or inadequately treated cases. The inability of a significant portion of the affected population to afford these treatments limits the overall market growth and demand for therapeutic products and services.

Lack of Understanding of Clinical Courses and Relevance Limits Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market

The overt hepatic encephalopathy market also faces limitations due to a lack of understanding of the disease's clinical courses and relevance among healthcare providers and patients. Hepatic encephalopathy is a complex condition with varied presentations and a multifaceted clinical course. Inadequate knowledge and understanding of the disease among healthcare professionals can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment approaches, and poor management of the condition.

Additionally, patients and their families might not recognize the early signs of the disease or understand the importance of adhering to treatment regimens, which can adversely affect treatment outcomes. Enhancing education and awareness about hepatic encephalopathy's clinical aspects is crucial for improving diagnosis, treatment, and market growth.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type

Covert hepatic encephalopathy is the dominant segment within the hepatic encephalopathy market. This form of the condition is characterized by subtle neurological and psychiatric abnormalities often detected only through neuropsychological testing. The high prevalence of covert hepatic encephalopathy, along with its challenging diagnosis, underscores the need for increased awareness and improved diagnostic tools.

The management of covert hepatic encephalopathy is crucial in preventing progression to the more severe overt stage, which can have significant impacts on quality of life and require more intensive treatment. While covert remains the dominant segment, overt hepatic encephalopathy is also significant, characterized by more pronounced neurological and psychiatric symptoms and requiring immediate medical attention.

By Treatment

Lactulose stands as the dominant segment for treatment in the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. This non-absorbable disaccharide is widely used as a first-line treatment due to its effectiveness in reducing blood ammonia levels, a primary factor in the development of hepatic encephalopathy. Lactulose works by acidifying the contents of the colon, which helps trap ammonia and facilitates its excretion. The efficacy, availability, and relative safety of lactulose contribute to its dominance in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy.

Other treatments, such as antibiotics, probiotics, branched-chain amino acids, and liver transplantation, also play crucial roles in managing the condition. Antibiotics are used to reduce ammonia-producing bacteria in the gut, while probiotics aim to restore healthy gut flora. Branched-chain amino acids can help improve cognitive function, and liver transplantation is considered in severe cases.

By Application

Hospitals are the dominant application segment in the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. They provide comprehensive care, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition. The multidisciplinary approach available in hospitals is essential for the complex care needs of hepatic encephalopathy patients.

As the primary centers for emergency and intensive care, hospitals are crucial in managing overt episodes of the condition. Research Institutes, Clinics, and Surgical Centers also contribute to the market, each playing a role in understanding, diagnosing, and treating hepatic encephalopathy. Research institutes drive advancements in treatment, clinics offer ongoing management of the condition, and surgical centers are involved in procedures like liver transplantation.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Industry Segments

By Type

• Cover
• Overt

By Treatment

• Lactulose
• Antibiotics
• Probiotics
• Branched-Chain Amino Acids
• Liver Transplantation
• Others

By Application

• Hospitals
• Research Institutes
• Clinics
• Surgical Centers

Growth Opportunities

Increasing Adoption of Precision Medicine Propels Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market

The increasing adoption of precision medicine offers significant growth opportunities in the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. Precision medicine approaches, which tailor treatment based on individual patient characteristics, are becoming more prevalent in managing complex conditions like hepatic encephalopathy.

As our understanding of the disease's pathophysiology improves, so does the ability to develop targeted therapies that can more effectively manage its symptoms and progression. This trend is leading to more personalized, effective treatment options and is driving demand for innovative therapies in the market, reflecting a robust growth potential as treatments become more individualized.

Strategies by Key Players Enhance Growth in Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market

Strategic initiatives undertaken by market players - partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, R&D investment, and geographic expansion - are driving growth in the overt hepatic encephalopathy market. Companies are increasingly investing in developing new treatments and expanding their reach to new markets and patient populations.

These strategies not only drive competition but also lead to the introduction of improved treatment options and increased accessibility for patients. This proactive approach by market players is a significant driver of growth, as companies seek to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare market and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Regional Analysis

North America Dominates with 71.00% Market Share in Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market

North America's significant 71.00% share of the overt hepatic encephalopathy market is largely driven by the region's high prevalence of liver diseases, including cirrhosis, which is a primary cause of hepatic encephalopathy. The United States, in particular, has a robust healthcare system with advanced medical facilities and significant investments in liver disease research and treatments.

Leading pharmaceutical companies operating in the region that specialize in developing and marketing treatments for hepatic encephalopathy also contribute to its high market share. Additionally, the increasing awareness about liver health and the availability of specialized medical care plays a crucial role in market dominance.

The market dynamics in North America are influenced by the region's strong emphasis on healthcare innovation and the availability of various treatment options, including medications and liver transplants. The increasing healthcare expenditure and insurance coverage for liver diseases lead to better access to treatments for hepatic encephalopathy.

Europe: Advanced Healthcare Systems and Research Initiatives

Europe’s overt hepatic encephalopathy market is driven by the region's advanced healthcare systems and strong research initiatives. The presence of well-established healthcare infrastructure, combined with high awareness about liver diseases, supports the demand for hepatic encephalopathy treatments. The market benefits from the region's focus on healthcare research and the availability of various treatment options.

Asia-Pacific: Growing Healthcare Awareness and Increasing Liver Disease Prevalence

In Asia-Pacific, the overt hepatic encephalopathy market is expanding due to growing healthcare awareness and the increasing prevalence of liver diseases. Countries like China and India are witnessing a rise in liver disease cases due to factors such as alcohol consumption and hepatitis infections. The improving healthcare facilities and the rising middle-class population with access to better medical care contribute to the market growth. The region's increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure and the growing focus on liver health present significant opportunities for market expansion.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Key Player Analysis

In the Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, a critical sector for treating complex liver-related brain dysfunction, the companies listed are pivotal in providing therapeutic solutions. Bausch Health Companies Inc. and Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals are significant players with a strong presence in the market, offering medications that are mainstays in treatment regimens. Their strategic positioning emphasizes research and development in therapies that improve patient outcomes.

ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. contribute with their specialized focus on gastroenterology and innovative drug formulations, reflecting the market's need for effective and manageable treatments. Cosmo Pharmaceuticals N.V. and Lupin Limited are key players known for their global reach and commitment to expanding treatment options in the hepatic encephalopathy space.

Kaleido Biosciences and Kannalife Sciences Inc., with their cutting-edge research, are exploring novel therapeutic pathways, showcasing the industry's shift towards addressing underlying mechanisms of the disease. Umecrine Cognition AB and Norgine B.V., though smaller in comparison, offer unique solutions and are actively involved in advancing clinical research in this field.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Industry Key Players

• ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
• Cosmo Pharmaceuticals N.V
• Lupin Limited.
• Kaleido Biosciences
• Kannalife Sciences Inc.
• Bausch Health Companies Inc.
• Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
• Umecrine Cognition AB.
• Norgine B.V.
• Abbott Laboratories
• QR Science and Technology Development Co.

Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Recent Development

• In April 2023, Merck, the German multinational science and technology firm, and Eisai, the Japanese pharmaceutical corporation, released details regarding Phase 3 Trials to treat advanced Melanoma and metastatic Colorectal Cancer with orally accessible multiple receptor tyrosine-kinase inhibitors such as KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) and LENVIMA (lenvatinib), respectively.
• In March 2023, Bausch Health Companies Inc, a Canadian multinational specialty pharmaceutical company, recently made public announcements regarding an active trial using Rifaximin SSD tablets and Lactulose to treat Hepatic Encephalopathy directly. This trial is currently in Phase III clinical studies.
• In September 2022, GENFIT, a late-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the lives of those suffering from liver disorders, announced they had purchased Versantis' clinical-stage Biopharmaceutical business with its three programs; ACLF (ACLF phase 2 ready), UCD infant program and early encephalopathy program (VS02-HE).
• In April 2022, Salix Pharmaceuticals, the gastroenterology division of Bausch Health Companies Inc., the world's largest specialty pharmaceutical company, unveiled its treatments and preventive strategies for gastrointestinal illnesses. At SHM's Converge 2022 annual meet in Nashville in April Salix Pharmaceuticals displayed four posters describing XIFAXAN (rifaximin) AND RELISTO (methylnaltrexone bromide), respectively. Rifaximin can reduce emergency department service visits for Hepatic Encephalopathy Treatment Versus Lactulose All by Itself.
• In June 2021, Axcella, a global clinical-stage biotechnology company offering an innovative solution for managing complex diseases and improving overall health using endogenous metabolic modulator components, announced their initial activation and screening of patients for Phase 2 of AXA1665, an oral product targeting recurrent liver encephalopathy cases.

Report Scope