Plasma Expander Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Product Type (Dextran, Hydroxyethyl Starch, Human Albumin, PEGylated Albumin, Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), Gelatin), By End User (Online Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Hospital Pharmacies), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

 Market Overview

Global Plasma Expander Market was valued at USD 7.32 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 15.03 Billion in the forecast period with a CAGR of 12.71% through 2030. The Global Plasma Expander Market is projected to experience substantial growth in the coming years, driven by increasing healthcare demands for volume replacement in critical conditions like trauma, surgery, burns, and shock. Plasma expanders are essential intravenous solutions used to increase blood volume and treat patients suffering from severe dehydration or blood loss. The growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disorders is further boosting demand for these products, as they are crucial in managing fluid balance and maintaining cardiovascular health in critically ill patients. The rising number of surgeries and medical procedures requiring intensive care, along with the demand for better treatment options, is expected to continue fueling market growth.

Several factors are contributing to the rapid advancement of the plasma expander market. The increasing use of synthetic plasma expanders like Hydroxyethyl Starch (HES) and synthetic colloids is driving the market forward due to their effectiveness and cost-efficiency compared to human albumin. Technological advancements in the manufacturing and formulation of plasma expanders are enhancing their safety and efficacy, making them more accessible and reliable for healthcare providers. The shift toward more advanced medical technologies and a greater emphasis on critical care management across healthcare systems worldwide is encouraging investments in plasma expanders, which are vital in emergency and intensive care scenarios. The demand for safer and more efficient treatments is pushing innovation in the field, with new formulations being introduced to address existing challenges related to side effects and safety profiles.

However, the market faces several challenges that could influence its growth trajectory. One significant hurdle is the rising concern regarding the potential side effects of plasma expanders, particularly with regard to the use of certain synthetic products like HES, which have been linked to kidney damage in some cases. Regulatory hurdles related to the approval of new products and the complexity of clinical trials can delay the introduction of new therapies to the market. There are also challenges related to the high cost of plasma-derived products, which can limit accessibility in low-resource settings. The market’s reliance on human-derived products such as human albumin raises concerns about the potential for supply shortages, ethical considerations, and the risk of pathogen transmission. As these challenges persist, the market must focus on developing safer, more effective alternatives and improving accessibility to meet the growing demand for plasma expander treatments globally.

Key Market Drivers

Technological Advancements

Researchers have been working on developing new and improved formulations of plasma expanders. These formulations aim to provide better volume-expanding properties while minimizing side effects, such as coagulation disturbances and kidney injury. This includes the development of more biocompatible and less toxic solutions. Advancements have been made in creating synthetic plasma expanders that do not rely on human or animal plasma as their source. These synthetic alternatives can reduce the risk of infections and immunological reactions associated with plasma-derived products. Researchers are exploring the development of biodegradable plasma expanders. These products are designed to break down naturally in the body over time, reducing the risk of long-term side effects and eliminating the need for excretion. Nanotechnology has been applied to the development of plasma expanders to enhance their properties. Nanoparticles can be incorporated into plasma expander formulations to improve drug delivery, circulation time, and tissue targeting. Efforts have been made to enhance the safety profile of plasma expanders. This includes modifying the chemical structure of existing solutions to reduce adverse effects and conducting rigorous safety testing.

Advances in formulation and packaging have led to improved shelf stability for plasma expanders, allowing for longer storage periods without degradation. Technological advancements have made it possible to develop point-of-care testing devices that can help healthcare professionals assess the need for plasma expanders and monitor patient response more accurately. Some research has explored the concept of personalized medicine in plasma expander administration. Tailoring treatment based on an individual's specific needs and response to treatment may become more feasible with advancements in diagnostics and monitoring. Technological improvements in biocompatibility testing methods allow for more rigorous evaluation of plasma expanders to ensure they interact safely with the body's physiological systems. Advanced monitoring tools, such as non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring and advanced imaging techniques, can aid healthcare professionals in assessing the effectiveness of plasma expanders in real-time. Technological advancements have improved the ability of manufacturers to meet and demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards. This factor will help in the development of the Global Plasma Expander Market.

In India, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has been actively involved in promoting research and development in the field of plasma expanders. According to the DST Annual Report 2023-24, India retained its position at 40th in the Global Innovation Index, reflecting the country's commitment to advancing scientific research and innovation. 

Furthermore, the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET) organized the International Conference on "Advancement in Sustainable Materials for Energy and Environment (ASMEE 2023)" in October 2023. This conference aimed to promote scientific information and the exchange of research advances and technologies addressing emerging trends and challenges, including the development of sustainable materials such as plasma expanders. 

These initiatives underscore India's dedication to advancing research and development in the field of plasma expanders, with a focus on improving safety, efficacy, and biocompatibility.

Increasing Efforts to Reduce Blood Waste

Blood is a valuable and limited resource. Hospitals and healthcare facilities aim to conserve blood supplies, especially during times of high demand or shortages. Plasma expanders are employed to maintain blood volume in patients, reducing the reliance on blood transfusions and preserving blood for patients who truly require it. Blood transfusions carry certain risks, including transfusion reactions, infections, and immunological responses. By using plasma expanders to stabilize patients and manage their fluid balance, healthcare providers can reduce the need for transfusions, thereby mitigating these risks.

In emergency situations such as trauma cases, where rapid treatment is essential, plasma expanders can be administered promptly to maintain blood pressure and circulation. This immediate response helps save lives and conserves blood supplies for more critical cases. In elective surgeries, where blood loss is expected but not excessive, plasma expanders can be used to support patients during and after the procedure. This reduces the demand for donor blood, which may not be readily available or may carry additional risks.

Periodic blood shortages can occur due to various reasons, such as seasonal variations, natural disasters, or public health crises. Plasma expanders provide a valuable alternative in these situations, ensuring that patients receive necessary care even when blood supplies are limited. For instance, in India, as per the National Blood Policy by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), there are severe shortages due to fragmented management and the lack of adequate resources. The country continues to face challenges in maintaining an adequate supply of blood components, which reinforces the importance of alternatives like plasma expanders.

Blood transfusions can be costly due to the need for donor blood, testing, and administration. Plasma expanders can be a cost-effective option in many clinical scenarios, leading healthcare facilities to choose them to reduce expenses. Blood transfusions are associated with a risk of infection transmission. By minimizing the number of transfusions using plasma expanders, healthcare facilities can lower the risk of hospital-acquired infections.

In the United States, approximately 5 million people receive blood transfusions each year. The American Red Cross reports that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Despite these high numbers, the nation faces ongoing challenges in maintaining an adequate blood supply, driving the need for plasma expanders to reduce reliance on donated blood. Healthcare regulatory agencies and quality improvement organizations often encourage or require healthcare facilities to implement strategies to reduce blood waste and promote patient safety. The use of plasma expanders aligns with these initiatives. This factor will accelerate the demand for the Global Plasma Expander Market.

Rising Trauma Cases

Trauma cases often result in significant blood loss, leading to hypovolemic shock—a life-threatening condition. Plasma expanders are administered to restore and maintain blood volume, helping to stabilize the patient until further treatments can be provided. In trauma situations, time is of the essence. Plasma expanders can be administered rapidly to address hypovolemia and maintain blood pressure, which is essential to prevent organ damage and increase the chances of survival. Blood transfusions in trauma cases may not always be readily available or appropriate due to logistical challenges, blood type mismatches, or concerns about infections. Plasma expanders are a valuable alternative for increasing blood volume without relying on donor blood. Blood transfusions carry risks of transfusion reactions, immunological responses, and infections. Plasma expanders can help mitigate these risks by minimizing the need for transfusions. In cases where surgery is required to address traumatic injuries, plasma expanders can be administered to stabilize the patient's condition before and during surgery. This ensures that surgical procedures can be performed more effectively and safely. Trauma patients often require intensive care and monitoring. Plasma expanders help maintain hemodynamic stability, facilitating ongoing critical care and treatment. Plasma expanders have the advantage of longer shelf lives and easier storage compared to blood products, making them more practical for use in emergency and trauma settings. In some trauma cases, there may be a risk of delayed hemorrhage after initial treatment. Plasma expanders can help maintain blood volume, reducing the risk of complications related to delayed bleeding. Using plasma expanders in trauma care allows for more efficient use of blood resources, ensuring that donor blood is reserved for patients who require it urgently. This factor will accelerate the demand for plasma expanders in the global market.

In India, trauma cases are a significant public health concern. According to the National Program for Prevention & Management of Trauma and Burn, over 1,000,000 people are moderately or severely burnt every year. Additionally, approximately 1.4 lakh people die of burn injuries annually, equating to one death every four minutes due to burns. 

A study conducted by NITI Aayog in 2021 across 34 district hospitals reported that emergency and injury cases accounted for 19% to 36% of annual hospital admissions. This highlights the substantial burden of trauma cases on healthcare facilities in India. The Indian government's efforts to address trauma care include the National Program for Prevention & Management of Trauma and Burn, which focuses on improving trauma care services across the country. Given the high incidence of trauma cases and the critical need for effective blood volume management, the demand for plasma expanders in India is expected to rise. This trend is driven by the necessity to provide timely and efficient care to trauma patients, especially in emergency and surgical settings.

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Key Market Challenges

Cost Containments

Many healthcare systems and facilities face budget limitations. Cost containment measures are often implemented to control healthcare spending, which can impact the purchasing decisions for medical products, including plasma expanders. The plasma expander market is competitive, with multiple manufacturers offering a range of products. Intense competition can lead to price pressure, potentially reducing profit margins for manufacturers and distributors. The reimbursement policies of healthcare payers, including government healthcare programs and private insurers, can affect the pricing and reimbursement rates for plasma expanders. Lower reimbursement rates may limit the financial viability of using certain products. Economic downturns or fluctuations can influence healthcare spending and affect the purchasing decisions of healthcare facilities. Cost-effective options may be favored during periods of financial strain. Developing and bringing new plasma expander formulations to the market involves significant research and development costs. Manufacturers must balance these expenses with the need to offer competitive pricing. Meeting regulatory requirements and quality standards can add to the production costs of plasma expanders. Compliance with evolving regulations may require investments in process improvements and quality control measures. Plasma expanders are often used in high-volume medical procedures, such as surgeries and trauma care. Meeting the demand for these products while maintaining quality can be challenging and may involve economies of scale. Efficient supply chain management is essential for minimizing costs associated with production, distribution, and storage of plasma expanders. Any disruptions or inefficiencies in the supply chain can lead to increased costs. Manufacturers must carefully consider their pricing strategies to balance affordability for healthcare facilities with the need for profitability. This can be a complex challenge, especially in markets with diverse pricing expectations.

Safety and Efficacy Concerns

Ensuring the safety of patients is paramount in healthcare. Concerns about the safety of plasma expanders arise from potential adverse effects and complications associated with their use. This includes risks such as coagulation disorders, kidney injury, and allergic reactions. Healthcare providers need to be confident that plasma expanders effectively serve their intended purpose, which is to restore and maintain blood volume. Any doubts about their efficacy can impact treatment decisions and patient outcomes. Regulatory agencies around the world closely monitor the safety and efficacy of medical products, including plasma expanders. Manufacturers must meet rigorous regulatory requirements to ensure product approval and continued compliance. Safety concerns or adverse events associated with plasma expanders can lead to product recalls, which can have financial and reputational implications for manufacturers and affect the availability of these products in the market. Concerns about the safety of plasma expanders can lead healthcare providers to seek alternative products or treatment approaches, such as blood transfusions or other volume expanders, which can impact the demand for plasma expanders. Efficacy and safety concerns can influence the development of clinical guidelines and best practices for the use of plasma expanders. Healthcare providers may adjust their protocols based on safety and efficacy considerations. Patients may have concerns about the safety of plasma expanders, particularly if they are aware of potential risks. Effective patient education and informed consent processes are essential to address these concerns. Manufacturers invest significant resources in research and development to improve the safety profile of plasma expanders. Addressing safety concerns may involve developing new formulations or conducting clinical trials. Healthcare professionals must have confidence in the safety and efficacy of plasma expanders to recommend and administer them to patients. Concerns in this regard can affect adoption rates.

Key Market Trends

Shift Towards Plasma Expanders Over Blood Transfusions

The shift towards plasma expanders over blood transfusions is a key driver for the growth of the global plasma expander market. Blood transfusions have long been the standard treatment for patients experiencing significant blood loss, especially in trauma and surgical cases. However, blood transfusions are associated with several risks, including immunological reactions, transfusion-related infections, blood type mismatches, and allergic responses, which can complicate treatment and recovery. Plasma expanders offer a safer alternative as they do not carry the same risk of transfusion reactions or infections. Plasma expanders are designed to mimic human plasma by increasing blood volume and stabilizing blood pressure, which is essential for managing hypovolemic shock and improving patient survival rates. Unlike blood transfusions, which require careful matching of blood types and strict storage conditions, plasma expanders are easier to store and have a longer shelf life. This makes them more practical for use in emergency situations and remote areas with limited access to blood banks. Plasma expanders are also more cost-effective compared to blood transfusions, as the cost of blood collection, screening, storage, and transportation can be prohibitively high, especially in developing countries. As healthcare systems worldwide focus on improving the efficiency of trauma care, plasma expanders are gaining preference due to their convenience, lower risk profile, and cost-effectiveness. These factors are accelerating the shift towards plasma expanders, with many hospitals and trauma centers incorporating them as the primary method for restoring blood volume in critical patients. This growing adoption is driving the expansion of the global plasma expander market.

Awareness About Blood Transfusion Risks

Healthcare providers and patients are increasingly focused on patient safety. Awareness of the potential risks associated with blood transfusions, such as infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis) and immunological reactions (e.g., transfusion-related acute lung injury), has led to a desire to minimize these risks. Infectious disease transmission through blood transfusions has historically been a concern. Awareness of the risks of bloodborne infections has prompted efforts to explore alternatives to blood transfusions when appropriate, including the use of plasma expanders. Blood transfusions can trigger immunological reactions, such as transfusion-related reactions and hemolytic transfusion reactions. Healthcare providers and patients are increasingly aware of these risks and seek alternatives that can minimize the chances of such reactions. Periodic blood shortages, whether due to seasonal fluctuations, natural disasters, or public health crises, have highlighted the need for strategies to reduce reliance on donor blood. Plasma expanders are seen as a valuable option to address this challenge. Patients are becoming more informed about their healthcare choices and may express preferences for treatments that minimize the risks of transfusions. This can influence treatment decisions and lead to discussions about the use of plasma expanders. The awareness of blood transfusion risks has influenced the development of clinical guidelines and protocols that emphasize judicious use of blood products. These guidelines may recommend the consideration of plasma expanders in certain clinical scenarios. Blood transfusions can be costly, with expenses related to blood collection, testing, and administration. Awareness of the economic impact has led to discussions about cost-effective alternatives like plasma expanders. Regulatory agencies have taken steps to promote the safe use of blood products and encourage research into alternative treatments like plasma expanders. This support has further raised awareness of the importance of exploring transfusion alternatives.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Based on the Product Type, Human Albumin emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Plasma Expander Market in 2024. This is due to its widespread clinical applications and established safety profile. As a naturally occurring protein in human blood plasma, human albumin plays a critical role in maintaining oncotic pressure, which helps regulate the movement of fluids between blood vessels and tissues. Its use as a plasma expander in clinical settings is particularly vital in patients experiencing severe blood loss, burns, trauma, and hypoalbuminemia. The safety and efficacy of human albumin in such critical care scenarios have made it a standard treatment, especially in hospitals and intensive care units (ICUs). Furthermore, human albumin is often preferred over synthetic alternatives due to its biocompatibility and minimal risk of side effects like kidney damage, which is a concern with certain synthetic plasma expanders. As healthcare systems worldwide continue to prioritize effective treatment for patients undergoing surgery, trauma recovery, or shock management, the demand for human albumin will remain robust. Its established clinical usage, coupled with the rising number of surgical and emergency procedures, ensures that human albumin will retain its position as the dominant product in the plasma expander market in 2024.

End User Insights

Based on the End User, Hospital Pharmacies emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Plasma Expander Market in 2024. This is due to the critical role plasma expanders play in emergency and intensive care settings. Hospitals are the primary healthcare facilities where plasma expanders, such as human albumin and hydroxyethyl starch, are most commonly administered to patients suffering from severe blood loss, dehydration, trauma, or shock. These products are essential in stabilizing patients' blood volume during critical situations, making hospital pharmacies the key distributors of plasma expanders. The high demand for plasma expanders in hospital settings is driven by the increasing frequency of surgeries, trauma cases, and complex medical conditions requiring intensive care. Plasma expanders are widely used in surgical procedures, burn treatments, and other critical conditions, ensuring that hospitals remain the largest end-user segment. Furthermore, hospitals have the necessary infrastructure, trained medical staff, and regulatory frameworks to handle and administer these complex products effectively. The growing global healthcare needs, particularly in emergency and critical care departments, are further boosting the dominance of hospital pharmacies. With rising hospital admissions and more frequent use of plasma expanders in life-saving procedures, hospital pharmacies will continue to lead the market in 2024.

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Regional Insights

North America emerged as the dominant region in the Global Plasma Expander Market in 2024. This is due to several key factors, including advanced healthcare infrastructure, high demand for critical care treatments, and a well-established healthcare system. The region's healthcare sector is one of the most developed globally, with leading hospitals and healthcare institutions that prioritize the latest medical technologies and therapeutic treatments, including plasma expanders. The rising prevalence of chronic conditions such as heart disease, kidney failure, and diabetes, along with an aging population, drives the need for effective volume replacement therapies like plasma expanders. In addition, the U.S. and Canada have robust regulatory frameworks, such as the FDA and Health Canada, ensuring the availability of high-quality plasma-derived products and boosting consumer confidence in their safety and efficacy. The region also benefits from high healthcare spending, allowing for greater adoption of advanced medical treatments, including plasma expanders. Moreover, the increasing number of trauma cases, surgeries, and critical care procedures further propels demand for plasma expanders in North America. The combination of these factors leading healthcare infrastructure, rising disease burden, and strong demand for critical care products positions North America as the dominant region in the global plasma expander market in 2024.

Recent Developments

• In July 2024, Biotest AG revealed that it has laid the foundation for a strategic agreement with Kedrion Biopharma for the full commercialization and distribution of its immunoglobulin product, Yimmugo, across the United States. This collaboration follows the significant milestone of receiving Biologic License Application (BLA) approval for Yimmugo from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• In January 2024, Takeda Pharmaceuticals announced that the FDA had granted approval for Immune Globulin Infusion 10% solution, a new intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. This product is specifically designed to improve neuromuscular disability and impairments in adults diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), a condition that affects peripheral nerves. 
• In August 2023, Shilpa Medicare Limited successfully completed its Phase 1 clinical trial for its recombinant human albumin 20% formulation, a product aimed at addressing the needs of patients requiring blood volume replacement. The completion of this critical trial is a significant milestone in the development of Shilpa Medicare's albumin-based products, which are expected to offer a safer and more effective alternative to traditional blood plasma products. 
• In April 2023, CSL (Australia) obtained approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its 50mL/10g prefilled syringe of Hizentra (Immune Globulin Subcutaneous [Human] 20% Liquid), intended for patients with Primary Immunodeficiency (PI) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIPD).

Key Market Players

• Baxter International Inc.
• Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA
• CSL Limited
• Grifols, S.A.
• B. Braun Melsungen AG
• Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC
• Octapharma AG
• Kedrion S.p.A.
• Shanghai RAAS Blood Products Co., Ltd.
• Terumo Corporation

 Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Plasma Expander Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•     Plasma Expander Market, By Product Type:

o   Dextran

o   Hydroxyethyl Starch

o   Human Albumin

o   PEGylated Albumin

o   Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)

o   Gelatin

•     Plasma Expander Market, By End-User:

o   Online Pharmacies

o   Retail Pharmacies

o   Hospital Pharmacies

•  Plasma Expander Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  South Korea

§  Australia

§  Japan

o   Europe

§  Germany

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Spain

§  Italy

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Plasma Expander Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Plasma Expander Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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