Guest Column | November 7, 2023

Enteric Gel Capsules Market Flourishes As Demand For Advanced Drug Delivery Surges

By Sabyasachi Ghosh, Future Market Insights

colored oill capsules-GettyImages-1619922521

The enteric gel capsules market has been experiencing remarkable growth in recent years, thanks to the increasing demand for advanced drug delivery systems. The pharmaceutical industry's constant pursuit of effective and patient-friendly drug delivery mechanisms has led to a surge in the popularity of enteric gel capsules.

These capsules offer a patient-centric approach to drug delivery, ensuring medications are released in the small intestine rather than the stomach. This enhances drug efficacy while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking a more comfortable and effective treatment experience.

An Overview Of Market Growth

The growing market for biopharmaceuticals, including peptides and proteins, demands sophisticated delivery systems that protect these delicate molecules from stomach acids. Enteric gel capsules have emerged as a reliable solution for safely delivering biologics to their target sites, driving their adoption in the pharmaceutical industry. The market for enteric gel capsules continues to expand, driven by their patient-focused benefits and relevance in the evolving landscape of drug delivery.

  • In 2023, the market was worth $305.3 million
  • By 2033, our research projects the market to be worth $582.5 million
  • Estimated growth during that time frame (2023–2033) is 6.7% CAGR

Vegetarian Enteric Gel Capsules Fuel Demand In The Market

With an estimated CAGR of 10.0% over the forecast period, vegetarian enteric gel capsules are making a substantial impact on the enteric gel capsules market due to the growing demand for plant-based and cruelty-free supplements. These capsules provide an excellent alternative to traditional gelatin-based ones, meeting the rising demand for eco-friendly and animal-friendly dietary supplements. As consumers increasingly prioritize health and sustainability, there's a surge in interest in enteric capsules derived from vegetarian sources.

This rise in demand is reshaping the enteric gel capsule market as manufacturers introduce new products regularly to meet consumers' changing preferences and requirements. With the growing focus on health and wellness, the future of this market appears promising as more consumers seek supplements, resulting in sustained growth and innovation within the industry.

How Type-A Gelatin (Pork Skin) Drives Growth In The Market

The enteric gel capsules market has been significantly impacted by type-A gelatin (pork skin), which held a significant market share of 42.9% in 2022. This segment is estimated to experience CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period.

The popularity of type-A gelatin can be attributed to its widespread availability, compatibility with enteric coating processes, and cost-effectiveness. This gelatin variant has become a preferred choice for formulators seeking consistent performance in establishing effective intestinal barriers, ensuring reliable drug release, and adhering to stringent regulatory requirements.

The surge in type-A gelatin demand has reshaped the enteric gel capsule market, forcing manufacturers to prioritize this ingredient in their formulations. As health-conscious consumers increasingly turn to supplements and pharmaceuticals, the demand for reliable and compliant enteric gel capsules continues to grow.

Consumer Preference For Health Boosts Enteric Gel Capsules Market

The enteric gel capsules market has witnessed remarkable growth, with the vitamin and dietary supplements segment taking center stage.

In 2022 this segment dominated the market, capturing a significant 33.3% share, and it is estimated to experience CAGR of 8.2% over the forecast period.

Enteric gel capsules offer an ideal solution for efficiently distributing and safeguarding delicate nutrients. They ensure the efficient delivery of vital vitamins and dietary supplements while protecting these valuable components from the harsh gastric environment. The enhanced absorption provided by enteric coatings aligns perfectly with consumers' desire for effective nutritional dietary supplements. This heightened demand has fueled the growth of the enteric gel capsules market, as both consumers and manufacturers recognize the benefits of this innovative solution for their health and wellness needs.

Notable Country Insights

  • The United States: 8.7% CAGR
  • Japan: 7.1% CAGR
  • The United Kingdom: 6.9% CAGR
  • India: 6.7% CAGR
  • China: 6.7% CAGR
  • Germany: 6.3% CAGR

Pharmaceutical Advancements Fuel Enteric Gel Demand In The United States

The United States claims a significant 28.5% share of the global enteric gel capsules market in 2022, and this dominance is set to persist. The country's thriving pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors are driving the demand for enteric gel capsules to efficiently deliver delicate compounds to the intestines.

These capsules are becoming increasingly vital in the era of targeted and personalized medicine, aligning with the innovative pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research and development carried out in the United States.

China Is Combating Malnutrition With Enteric Gel Capsules

China holds an 8.1% share of the global market in 2022. High rates of malnutrition and a rising awareness of malnutrition-related issues are propelling the demand for enteric gel capsules in the country.

Enteric Gel Capsules Are Transforming IBD Treatment in India

With a 6.9% global market share in 2022, India is an emerging hub for enteric gel capsules. The increasing prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is fuelling the market for these capsules in India.

Innovations In Enteric Gel Capsules

One significant advancement is the development of biodegradable enteric capsules, which contribute to sustainability and address concerns about environmental polymer accumulation. These capsules are designed to disintegrate naturally, minimizing their environmental impact. Innovations in enteric capsule design now allow for customized drug release patterns, allowing pharmaceutical companies to tailor drug delivery to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Hydrogel-based enteric coatings have emerged, offering superior protection to sensitive drugs, thus improving their stability and bioavailability. Also, the advent of combination capsules with multiple compartments enables the simultaneous delivery of multiple drugs, enhancing patient compliance and treatment effectiveness. These innovations represent a promising future for pharmaceutical formulations, making drug delivery more efficient, eco-friendly, and patient-centric.

Future Opportunities For Players In The Market

Key players should invest significantly in research and development to capitalize on the growing market. New innovations will enable the development of advanced materials, coatings, and innovative capsule designs that align with the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical industry. By regularly updating their products with technological advancements, they can offer solutions to cater to diverse drug formulations.

Collaboration is another vital strategy for key players. Through strong partnerships, they can co-create customized enteric capsule solutions tailored to the specific requirements of various drug formulations. These collaborations will eventually enhance the versatility of enteric gel capsules and foster long-term relationships with partners, ensuring mutual growth and success in the market.

The pharmaceutical industry's search for improved drug delivery methods is fueling the rapid growth of the enteric gel capsules market. With innovations and partnerships, key players can navigate this burgeoning market, offering solutions that meet the needs of both patients and the industry and contribute to its continued expansion.

About The Author:

Sabyasachi Ghosh is associate vice president of healthcare, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals at Future Market Insights. He has more than 12 years of experience in the industry and has been a researcher since the start of his career. His core expertise is in market entry and expansion strategy, feasibility studies, competitive intelligence, and strategic transformation. He holds a B.Sc. in microbiology. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.