Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market – By Drug Type, By Disease Type, By Medication Type, By Age Group, By Route of Administration, By Distribution Channel - Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market Size

The gastrointestinal therapeutics market was valued at USD 42.5 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 44.7 billion in 2025 to USD 74.8 billion in 2034 at a CAGR of 5.9%. The significant growth of the market is largely driven by the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcer disease.
 

This trend is further amplified by the expanding adult population, which is more prone to developing chronic GI conditions, thereby increasing the patient pool and demand for specialized care. For example, according to data published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology and Therapeutics, IBD affects approximately 721 individuals per 100,000 annually in the U.S., with ulcerative colitis being more common than Crohn’s disease. These conditions typically peak in early adulthood and, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications, including colorectal cancer and toxic megacolon, particularly in cases of ulcerative colitis. Such trends underline the urgent need for effective, long-term GI therapies, boosting demand for advanced treatments such as biologics and targeted therapies.
 

Progress in drug development, especially the emergence of biologics and biosimilars, combined with rising investments in research and development (R&D) and a steady flow of regulatory approvals, is further propelling market growth. Additionally, growing public awareness about GI health, the availability of improved diagnostic technologies, and the expansion of healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies have made treatment more accessible. These factors collectively continue to reshape the gastrointestinal therapeutic landscape and support sustained market expansion.
 

Gastrointestinal therapeutics involves medical strategies designed to treat the GI disorders that affect the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, and related organs. The market comprises various therapeutic treatments such as antidiarrheals, antiemetic drugs, laxatives, antiulcer agents, biologics/ biosimilars, antacids and therapeutic drugs. These treatments aimed to manage symptoms, improve their digestive health, and enhance clinical outcome.
 

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market Trends

• The gastrointestinal (GI) therapeutics market is witnessing robust growth, largely driven by continuous advancements in drug development. The introduction of biologics, targeted therapies, and nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems has significantly improved treatment efficacy and patient outcomes, opening new avenues for market expansion in the coming years.
   
• These innovative technologies allow for precise targeting of GI conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and colorectal cancer, leading to fewer side effects and higher remission rates.
• Additionally, the development of sustained-release formulations and personalized treatment approaches has enhanced therapeutic delivery, improving both patient compliance and convenience.
   
• Ongoing research and development (R&D) efforts, coupled with a rising number of clinical trials and regulatory approvals, further underscore the industry's commitment to addressing unmet needs in chronic GI disorders. Notably, in January 2025, Eli Lilly's drug Omvoh received FDA approval for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease. Already approved in the U.S. for ulcerative colitis, this milestone highlights a significant advancement in IBD treatment and offers Eli Lilly a strategic entry point into the broader inflammatory bowel disease market.
   
• Such developments not only expand available treatment options but also attract greater investment and stimulate competitive innovation within the industry. As pharmaceutical innovation continues to accelerate, the GI therapeutics market is expected to maintain strong growth momentum while elevating standards of patient care.
   

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market Analysis

In 2021, the global market was valued at USD 36.3 billion. The following year, it saw a slight increase to USD 38.2 billion, and in 2023, the revenue climbed to USD 40.3 billion.
 

Based on drug type, the global market is segmented into antidiarrheals, laxatives, biologics/biosimilars, antiemetics, antiulcer agents, antibiotics, antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and other drug types. The biologics/biosimilars segment dominated the market and was valued at USD 19.6 billion in 2024 and is poised to reach USD 36.1 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.4%.
 

• Biologics/biosimilars have become the preferred treatment options for gastrointestinal conditions, particularly for managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These therapies offer targeted action, effectively controlling inflammation and maintaining long-term disease remission, often outperforming traditional treatment methods.
   
• The introduction of biosimilars has significantly improved access to biologic therapies by lowering treatment costs, making advanced care more affordable for a broader patient population. Recent regulatory approvals of biosimilar versions of key drugs such as adalimumab and ustekinumab have further expanded treatment availability across global markets.
   
• Moreover, clinical studies have demonstrated that the sustained and gradual efficacy of biologics reduces the reliance on corticosteroids, contributing to improved patient recovery and long-term outcomes.
   
• As a result, biologics/biosimilars have established themselves as the cornerstone of modern GI therapy, securing a strong and growing position in the market.
   

Based on disease type, the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market is categorized into inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other disease types. The IBD segment accounted for the highest market share of 56.2% in 2024 and is poised to grow at a substantial rate during the analysis period.
 

• The segment is notably propelled by the increasing adoption of biologics and advanced therapies, particularly tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha inhibitors and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which have shown significant efficacy in managing disease progression and reducing relapse rates.
   
• The growth of the IBD segment is further supported by a strong pipeline of research and development activities, continued regulatory approvals, and rising disease awareness.
   
• For example, the FDA's approval of ABRILADA (adalimumab-afzb) in October 2023 as an interchangeable biosimilar to Humira, thereby reflects the expanding treatment landscape and increasing accessibility to advanced therapies.
   
• Moreover, strong endorsements from healthcare professionals and a growing preference among patients for biologics and biosimilars, owing to their proven effectiveness and reduced rates of disease recurrence, reinforce IBD’s position as the leading segment within the market.
   

Based on the age group, the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market is categorized into pediatric, adult and geriatric. In 2024, the adult segment dominated the market, accounting for the highest revenue of USD 26.3 billion and is anticipated to witness dominance throughout the forecast period at a CAGR of 5.6%.
 

• The adult population is particularly prone to chronic gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, GERD, and other related conditions. Contributing to this trend are modern lifestyle factors such as poor dietary habits, elevated stress levels, and sedentary behavior, all of which have led to a growing incidence of GI issues requiring long-term medical management.
   
• In response to this rising demand, pharmaceutical companies are advancing the development of specialized drug formulations and delivery systems such as injectables and sustained-release tablets, to enhance treatment effectiveness and improve patient adherence.
   

Based on the route of administration, the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market is categorized into oral and parenteral. In 2024, the parenteral segment dominated the market accounting for the highest share of 78.5% and is anticipated to witness dominance throughout the forecast period at a CAGR of 5.8%.
 

• The dominance of parenteral formulations in the market is largely attributed to their rapid onset of action and superior bioavailability, which are critical for managing severe GI conditions. By bypassing the digestive system and avoiding first-pass metabolism, injectable drugs ensure more efficient and targeted drug delivery.
   
• Biologics, central to advanced GI treatment, are primarily administered via intravenous or subcutaneous routes, significantly contributing to the strong market presence of parenteral therapies.
   
• Widely used biologic drugs such as Entyvio, Tysabri, and Sandostatin further reinforce this dominance due to their proven clinical efficacy and precision in targeting inflammation.
   
• Moreover, the growing adoption of biologics and the need for fast-acting treatments in acute care continue to support the leadership of parenteral formulations in the GI therapeutics market.
   

Based on the medication type, the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market is categorized by branded and generics. In 2024, the branded segment accounted for the largest share and is poised to grow at a significant growth with a CAGR of 5.3%.
 

• Branded medications maintain a strong position in the market due to established consumer trust, extensive clinical validation, and well-developed marketing and distribution networks. These drugs are often the first to gain regulatory approval, backed by rigorous research and compliance processes.
   
• Healthcare professionals frequently prefer branded treatments for chronic GI conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, owing to their demonstrated safety, efficacy, and consistent performance.
   
• Additionally, sustained investment by pharmaceutical companies in physician education and patient support initiatives has fostered long-term brand loyalty.
   
• Despite increasing competition from generics and biosimilars, branded drugs continue to lead the market, supported by factors such as patent protection, widespread insurance coverage, and strong market penetration, particularly in developed economies.
   

Based on the distribution channel, the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market is categorized by hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. In 2024, the retail pharmacies segment accounted for the largest share of 46.6% in the market and is anticipated to reach USD 34.6 billion by end of 2034.
 

• Retail pharmacies play a vital role in the market by providing convenient access to both over the counter (OTC) and prescription medications.
   
• They are often the first choice for individuals seeking immediate relief from GI conditions, offering commonly used treatments such as antibiotics, antiemetics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and antacids.
   
• In many developing countries, retail pharmacies act as the primary point of care for self-medication and the management of mild to moderate gastrointestinal disorders. Their accessibility, coupled with the availability of pharmacist consultations, has positioned them as a trusted and reliable healthcare resource for consumers.
   

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest revenue of USD 17.8 billion and is projected to generate revenue of USD 30.7 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 5.6% during the analysis period.
 

• North America holds a prominent position in the global gastrointestinal (GI) therapeutics market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness of digestive health, and widespread access to modern therapies.
   
• The region benefits from a strong presence of pharmaceutical manufacturers, an innovation-driven environment, and increasing demand for effective treatment options driven by lifestyle-related GI disorders.
   
• Additionally, ongoing investments in R&D, and a focus on precision medicine continue to support regional market expansion. Collaborative efforts between biotech firms and research institutions across Canada and the U.S. also contribute to accelerated drug development and commercialization.
   

In 2024, U.S. gastrointestinal therapeutics market accounted for USD 16 billion revenue from USD 15.2 billion in 2023.
 

• Growth is fueled by substantial healthcare spending, a high prevalence of GI conditions, and a robust regulatory framework managed by the FDA, which ensures timely approvals of new drugs and biosimilars.
   
• Major players such as AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson, and Pfizer have solidified their positions with successful biologics including Humira, Stelara, and Xeljanz.
   
• The widespread adoption of biologics and personalized therapies, along with comprehensive insurance coverage and well-established clinical research networks, further enhances treatment accessibility and patient outcomes.
   

Germany is poised to achieve significant growth in the Europe gastrointestinal therapeutics market.
 

• Germany is poised for significant growth in Europe’s GI therapeutics market, backed by an aging population and increasing public awareness of digestive health. This demographic trend has accelerated the demand for effective treatments, particularly biosimilars and biologics.
   
• According to Statista, IBD cases in Germany are expected to rise from 620,085 in 2020 to 815,200 by 2030, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic solutions.
   
• Germany’s streamlined regulatory system allows efficient drug approvals, making it attractive to both domestic and international pharmaceutical companies. The country’s strong emphasis on clinical research, especially in areas like microbiome-based therapies, further enhances its innovation capacity.
   
• Combined with comprehensive healthcare coverage and a substantial patient base, Germany continues to strengthen its position in the European GI therapeutics landscape.
   

Asia Pacific is poised to grow at a significant growth rate in the global gastrointestinal therapeutics market over the next few years.
 

• The Asia Pacific region exhibits substantial growth driven by driven by increasing disease prevalence, healthcare infrastructure development, and greater public awareness.
   
• Countries such as China, India, and Japan are experiencing a surge in GERD, IBS, and IBD cases due to modern lifestyle changes, dietary shifts, and aging populations. The expanding middle class and improved access to healthcare have increased demand for both branded and generic treatments.
   
• Regional and global pharmaceutical companies are heavily investing in R&D, particularly in biosimilars, microbiome-based therapies, and innovative drug formulations.
   
• For instance, in 2024, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries obtained non-exclusive licenses from Takeda to market Vonoprazan tablets in India, enhancing access to treatment for acid-peptic disorders.
   
• These developments, combined with supportive government policies and infrastructure improvements, are accelerating the market’s growth across the region.
   

China is anticipated to grow significantly within the Asia Pacific gastrointestinal therapeutics market.
 

• China is emerging as a significant market within the Asia Pacific GI therapeutics segment, driven by rising cases of GERD, IBS, IBD, and peptic ulcers. Urbanization and an aging population have contributed to sustained demand for advanced and accessible treatment options.
   
• A study published in Infectious Agents and Cancer highlighted that around 40–45% of adults in China are affected by H. pylori infections, emphasizing the growing need for ulcer treatment.
   
• Government healthcare reforms have enhanced insurance coverage and simplified drug approval processes, making the market more attractive to pharmaceutical firms. For example, Takeda’s Entyvio was approved by China’s NMPA in 2020 for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease in patients unresponsive to TNF-alpha inhibitors.
   
• These factors, along with ongoing R&D initiatives and favorable regulatory support, position China as a key growth market in the region.
   

Brazil is projected to witness significant growth in Latin America gastrointestinal therapeutics market in coming years.
 

• The growing cases of digestive disorder such as GERD, IBS, and IBD coupled with the healthcare awareness programs has positioned Brazil as a major market in Latin America.
   
• The country’s large population and ongoing enhancements in healthcare infrastructure offer ample opportunities for pharmaceutical firms to introduce advanced therapies and biosimilars.
   
• Additionally, favorable government policies aimed at improving drug accessibility and simplifying regulatory processes support market expansion. As a result, Brazil is emerging as a crucial growth hub for gastrointestinal therapeutics in Latin America.
   

Saudi Arabia is anticipated to grow in the Middle East and Africa gastrointestinal therapeutics market.
 

• Saudi Arabia is projected to experience robust growth in the Middle East and African GI therapeutics market, largely due to the increasing prevalence of GI disorders, especially GERD, associated with rising obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
   
• The government's Vision 2030 reforms have played a pivotal role in upgrading healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to modern treatments.
   
• Furthermore, pharmaceutical investment incentives and regulatory streamlining have created favorable conditions for introducing advanced therapies. These initiatives, combined with a growing patient population, position Saudi Arabia as a leading market within the region for gastrointestinal treatments.
   

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market Share

The top 5 players in the global market accounted for 20-25% of the share. Leading companies like AbbVie, AstraZeneca, Takeda, GlaxoSmithKline, and Johnson & Johnson hold significant market shares, driven by their well-established product portfolios and global presence. In addition, the expiration of key drug patents has opened the market to generic manufacturers, making treatments more affordable and accessible, particularly in developing regions. Pharmaceutical companies continue to invest heavily in R&D activities to develop novel treatments catering to GI disorders. Companies are forming strategic partnerships, expanding their geographical presence, and introducing treatments with improved safety profiles.
 

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Market Companies

Few of the prominent players operating in the gastrointestinal therapeutics industry include:

• AbbVie
• AstraZeneca
• Bayer
• Biogen
• Cipla
• Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
• Eli Lilly and Company
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
• Johnson & Johnson
• Novo Nordisk
• Pfizer
• Phathom Pharmaceuticals
• Sanofi
• Sun Pharma
• Takeda Pharmaceutical
   
• AbbVie's strong market presence in IBD treatments stems from its established biologics portfolio, including Humira and Rinvoq. The company's deep understanding of immunology and ongoing biosimilar development reinforces its role in treating chronic GI conditions. In addition, the well-established distribution network worldwide further strengthens the company’s position in the industry.
   
• Takeda has built a robust gastroenterology portfolio with proven biologics such as Entyvio and Alofisel for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease treatment. The company's focus on microbiome research and global market expansion demonstrates its commitment to advancing GI care.
   
• Johnson & Johnson's success in GI treatments centers on Stelara (ustekinumab), effectively addressing various GI and autoimmune conditions. The company's established research capabilities and strategic biosimilar development program continue to strengthen its position in GI medicine.
   

Gastrointestinal Therapeutics Industry News

• In February 2025, Zydus Lifesciences received U.S. FDA approval for the production Ibuprofen and Famotidine tablets. These tablets were designed to treat rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis while reducing the risk of upper GI ulcers. This approval aimed to broaden Zydus’s GI portfolio addressing the burden of peptic ulcer cases.
   
• In October 2024, Fresenius Kabi obtained FDA approval for Otulfi (ustekinumab-aauz), a biosimilar version of Stelara, to treat patients with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. The medication functions by inhibiting IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines, which play a role in inflammation and immune response. This regulatory approval supports Fresenius Kabi's ongoing efforts to broaden its biosimilar portfolio and increase patient access to immunology and gastroenterology treatments.
   
• In July 2024, Phathom Pharmaceuticals obtained the FDA grant for VOQUEZNA 10 mg tablets to treat heartburn in adults with Non-Erosive GERD. This marked the third FDA approval for VOQUEZNA, which was previously approved for Erosive GERD treatment and H. pylori eradication in combination therapy. The approval strengthens Phathom's GI portfolio, helps address unmet medical needs in acid-related disorders, and expands its presence in the U.S. market.
   

The gastrointestinal therapeutics market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Drug Type

• Antidiarrheals
• Laxatives
• Biologics/ biosimilars
• Antiemetics
• Antiulcer agents
• Antibiotics
• Antacids
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• Other drug types

Market, By Disease Type

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Crohn's disease
  • Ulcerative colitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Stage 1
  • Stage 2
  • Stage 3
  • Stage 4
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • IBS-D
  • IBS-C
  • IBS-M
• Other disease types 

Market, By Medication Type

• Branded
• Generics

Market, By Age Group

• Pediatric
• Adult
• Geriatric

Market, By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Parenteral

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Hospital pharmacies
• Retail pharmacies
• Online pharmacies

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE