HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY MARKET ANALYSIS

One of the major factors hindering the growth of the global hormone replacement therapy market is various side effects associated with these therapies. Hormone replacement therapies aim to alleviate symptoms of menopause by compensating for the loss of estrogen and progesterone, however, in doing so they can also cause undesirable side effects in many patients. Common side effects include breast tenderness, headaches, nausea, mood changes, and weight gain. More serious potential side effects include increased risks of blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancers like breast and endometrial cancer. The risk of side effects has led many patients to avoid hormone replacement therapies or stop treatment prematurely. For example, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2015 and 2018 showed over 25% of U.S. women who started hormone replacement therapy discontinued use within the first year, often citing side effects and safety concerns. This skepticism around long-term use means the market relies heavily on new patients needing short-term symptom relief, rather than retention of patients on ongoing treatment regimens. Manufacturers have struggled to convince those who experienced side effects to continue usage or to attract those wary of potential issues.

Market Opportunities – Government Support for Research and Development Activities

Increasing government support for research and development activities is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities over the forecast period. For instance, in July 2021, Clinical Gerontology Branch, NIA Division of Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology funded scientists were working to answer the several questions about the health impacts of menopause. Researchers continued to gather evidence on hormone therapy. Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the North American Menopause Society provide guidance to clinicians on the use of hormone therapy to treat vasomotor symptoms related to menopause, including identifying the most appropriate dose and formulation that would involve the least risk. Financial help by non-governmental organizations such as the National Gaucher Society help patients receive enzyme replacement therapy that is costly.