Abstract
Despite the popularity of bisphosphonates in treating osteoporosis, there is
room for improvement in terms of drug efficacy and shorter dosage regimens.
Although weekly courses of Fosamax and Actonel have proven effective in managing
osteoporosis, strict posture and fasting guidelines coupled with
gastrointestinal side effects limit patient compliance. In addition, the market
is still in need of more drugs that not only slow the rate of bone loss but also
assist in building bone. Such shortcomings in existing treatments are presenting
growth opportunities to new market entrants. The introduction of bisphosphonates
with monthly and yearly dosing regimens is expected to improve patient
compliance, while new anabolic agents are expected to provide severe sufferers
with better treatment options.
This Frost & Sullivan research examines the U.S. market for non-hormonal
prescription medications used to treat osteoporosis such as bisphosphonates,
selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), calcitonins, and parathyroid
hormones (PTHs). Each segment provides revenue and patient forecasts by drug,
product analysis, and a detailed look at the major issues and factors affecting
market growth.
Increased Awareness Essential to Facilitate Diagnosis and Effective
Treatment
Low awareness and poor understanding of the disease are a major factor behind
the late diagnosis and ineffective treatment for the millions suffering from
osteoporosis. The symptoms behind osteoporosis are not easily recognizable until
multiple fractures have occurred making it all the more difficult for accurate
diagnosis and timely treatment. "Plain X-rays also fail to reveal bone loss
until 20 to 50 percent loss has already occurred," observes the analyst of
this research. "Consequently, less than 10 percent of the estimated 44
million Americans suffering from osteopenia and osteoporosis are diagnosed and
treated." Extensive sales and promotional campaigns should educate patients
regarding the importance of receiving treatment at an early stage and equip
physicians with the tools necessary to quickly and easily identify the symptoms
behind low bone mass.
Anabolic Agents Set to Dramatically Expand Market
Existing antiresorptive therapies are unable to replace lost bone or rebuild
new bone mass, and therefore prove ineffective for patients with severe
osteoporosis and at a very high risk of developing fractures. "Anabolic
agents such as parathyroid hormones (PTHs) are capable of increasing bone
mineral density (BMD), restoring skeletal structure, and curtailing fracture
risk to a greater extent than traditional drugs used for osteoporosis,"
explains the analyst.
At present, Eli Lillys Forteo (teriparatide), which was launched in December
2002, holds the distinction of being the first and only anabolic agent with the
ability to build bone mass. As many other companies follow suit in developing
anabolic agents, the osteoporosis therapeutics market is expected to see a surge
in revenues.
Frost & Sullivan Growth Partnership Service
Based on extensive and in-depth research, real-world consulting work, and new
theories tested in hundreds of companies across many industries, Frost &
Sullivan has evolved its Growth Partnership Services (GPS) program that provides
established and emerging firms with powerful growth visions. Moving beyond token
mission statements, GPS provides an actionable vision to growth consulting
partners by illustrating how key intelligence and strategic research based on
defined goals can guide day-to-day behavior and overall company direction. The
foundation of Frost & Sullivans GPS includes:
- Assisting companies to reach their full potential in the core business
- Providing growth strategies to help companies expand into related
businesses
- Preemptively redefining the core business during market turbulence
- Applying the Frost & Sullivan framework to identify and address common
mistakes resulting from misaligned corporate strategies
- Recommending growth management strategies through continuous partnership
To maximize the potential for growth within a firms internal and external
environment, Frost & Sullivan consultants can facilitate the creation of
strategic programs that deliver improved market success. Frost & Sullivans
strengths lie in combining strategic understanding with market expertise and
applying these with absolute commitment to its clients growth.
View Cart
