Oxytocin Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Indication (Antepartum, Postpartum), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Drug Stores, Online Pharmacies), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Oxytocin Market Size & Trends

The global oxytocin market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2024 to 2030. Major factors contributing to the market growth include a rising incidence of pregnancy complications, a global increase in childbirth rates, and a growing awareness of induced labor and breastfeeding. For instance, according to WHO, maternal mortality rates remain unacceptably high, with about 287,000 women deaths during or after pregnancy and childbirth in the year 2020.

The rising birthrate has necessitated the development of more extensive maternal healthcare strategies, with a particular emphasis on addressing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). PPH is a major concern in maternal health, ranking among the top causes of maternal morbidity and mortality on a global scale. Thus, oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone, has emerged as a vital resource in both the prevention and management of PPH.

The growing cesarean deliveries and utilization of oxytocin in cesarean deliveries are also the key drivers of the market growth. Oxytocin helps in uterine muscle contraction, thereby minimizing bleeding and promoting a smoother recovery for the mother. Secondly, advancements in medical guidelines and clinical practices have encouraged the use of oxytocin as a standard procedure in cesarean deliveries to enhance patient safety and outcomes. For instance, according to the WHO, caesarean section deliveries have been increasing, representing over one in five (21%) of all childbirths. This upward trajectory is expected to persist over the next decade, with projections indicating that nearly a third (29%) of all births are likely to be conducted via cesarean section by the year 2030.

Indication Insights

Based on the indication, the oxytocin market is segmented into antepartum and postpartum. The postpartum segment held the largest market share in 2023. With an increase in childbirths, there are higher chances of encountering cases of postpartum hemorrhage, which can occur due to various factors, including uterine atony, placental issues, or trauma during delivery. To address this growing concern, healthcare providers have turned to oxytocin, a uterotonic agent that helps the uterus contract, thereby reducing the risk of excessive bleeding after childbirth.

Distribution Channel Insights

On the basis of distribution channels, the market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, drug stores, and online pharmacies. The hospital segment is expected to grow at a significant rate over the forecast period. Patients prefer hospitals due to the accessibility and convenience they offer in terms of treatment. Pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring the medication safety and quality control by strictly adhering to storage requirements and conducting regular inspections. Furthermore, the significant volume of surgeries performed within hospital settings is expected to be a driving force behind the growth of this market segment.

Regional Insights

North America held the largest market share in 2023. Factors contributing to regional market growth include substantial research investments made by private entities and government agencies within the healthcare sector. Furthermore, North America is home to significant pharmaceutical corporations and research facilities that promote discovering and marketing novel medications. However, the APAC region is expected to grow at the fastest rate over the forecast period.

Competitive Insights

Key players operating in the market are Weefsel Pharma, EVER Pharma, Pfizer Inc., Pace Biotech, Fresenius Kabi AG, AdvaCare Pharma. The market participants are constantly working towards new product development, M&A activities, and other strategic alliances to gain new market avenues. The following are some instances of such initiatives.

• In July 2023, Endo International plc and Premier, Inc. collaborated to address pitocin (oxytocin injection, usp) shortage. Pitocin is employed to induce labor in pregnant women.

• In October 2023, Tonix Pharmaceuticals announced the issuance of a European Union (EU) patent that covers the use of intranasal potentiated oxytocin (TNX-1900) for pain treatment.