Contrast Media Market Outlook:
Contrast Media Market size was valued at USD 6.9 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 17.1 billion by the end of 2037, registering a CAGR of 7.9% during the forecast period, i.e., 2026-2037. In 2026, the contrast media is assessed at USD 7.4 billion.
The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, such as pulmonary disease, dementia, diabetes, and depression, and the growing aging population are expected to increase the demand for contrast media used for diagnostic purposes. In October 2024, the World Health Organization reported that 1 in every 6 individuals is expected to reach the age of 60 and above by 2030. This indicates the likelihood of rising prevalence of common health conditions, such as hearing loss, refractive and, cataract errors, pain in the back and neck, and osteoarthritis. As a result, the demand for contrast media used for the procedure of diagnostic imaging is expected to increase.
Adequate availability of contrast agents, including barium sulfate, and iodinated compounds like iodine-based contrast media, fuels the growth of the market. The use of contrast agents is common for effective visibility across diagnostic procedures, such as angiography, CT scans, and others.
Patient Safety - Contrast Media
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Topic |
Details |
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Types of Contrast Materials |
- Iodine-based: used in X-ray and CT; administered via ingestion, injection, or into body spaces - Barium-sulfate: most common for oral or rectal use in GI studies; forms: powder, liquid, paste, tablets - Gadolinium: used in MRI; alters the magnetic properties of water molecules |
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Administration Methods |
swallowed, administered via enema, injected into veins or arteries, or injected into body cavities |
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Iodine-Based Reactions |
- Mild: nausea, vomiting, headache, itching, flushing, mild rash/hives - Moderate: severe rash/hives, wheezing, arrhythmias, blood pressure changes, shortness of breath - Severe: difficulty breathing, throat swelling, profound hypotension |
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MRI–Gadolinium Safety |
- Allergic reactions are rare and mostly mild (hives, itchy eyes); severe reactions are very rare - Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a rare risk in patients with severe kidney disease - Gadolinium retention in organs (including brain) has been observed, but no known adverse outcomes; the choice of agent may vary based on risk factors and patient profile |
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Oral/Rectal Barium-Sulfate Effects |
Pre-exam: fasting or colon cleansing may be required Effects: unpleasant taste, fullness, urge to evacuate (if enema) After exam: increased fluid intake recommended; stools may appear white for a few days; bowel pattern changes possible for 12–24 hours |
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Considerations |
- Pregnancy: Inform your provider. Iodinated CT contrast not known to pose significant risk. Gadolinium for MRI typically avoided unless essential due to unknown fetal risk - Breastfeeding: Despite manufacturer advice to pause breastfeeding for 24–48 hours, the ACR and European Society of Urogenital Radiology assert it is safe to continue, as trace exposure is minimal |
Source: RNSA
Organizations are investing in deploying the diagnostic processes that need iodinated compound agents as a precursor in the deposition of chemical vapor, which indicates their adequate availability. One such example is the announcement by American Elements in January 2023, regarding its expansion of the less common metals, organometallics, and rare earth production facilities with the motive of meeting the rising demand for precursors for deposition of thin film.
Contrast Media Market - Growth Drivers and Challenges
Growth Drivers
- Rising cancer and cardiovascular imaging demand: The rising demand for cancer and cardiovascular imaging due to the penetration in rates of cancer and cardiovascular diseases globally, fuels the market growth. This results in high demand for contrast media, such as iodinated, nanoparticle-based, gadolinium-based, and microbubble contrast agents. As per the report by the WHO, published in July 2025, cancer is the leading cause of death, accounting for 31% of global deaths. Similarly, around 10 million deaths have taken place recently due to breast, colon, lung and rectum, and prostate cancers.
- New regulatory approvals of advanced agents: New regulatory approvals regarding the use of advanced contrast agents by organizations, such as the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and others, boost the market growth, encouraging innovation, research, and development, and expanding the market reach. For example, in November 2024, the FDA approved the lopromide injection, Bayer's Ultravist. The contrast agent can be used for imaging in CT scans, X-rays, and others.
- Technological advancements and strategic partnerships: The integration of advanced imaging as a technological advancement in diagnostic procedures fuels the market growth significantly. Companies associated with the market are also initiating strategic partnerships for the advancement of imaging techniques. For instance, in November 2024, GE HealthCare and DeepHealth, Inc., initiated a strategic partnership with RadNet, Inc. to accelerate AI innovation, commercialization, and adoption in imaging. The use of AI in imaging is expected to increase the efficiency of the process by analyzing images from imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, and others. It detects anomalies and helps in making appropriate diagnostic decisions effectively. Overall, the process of imaging using contrast media becomes increasingly streamlined.
Challenges
- Side effects and allergic reactions: In the post-administration period of radiographic contrast media, people often face issues with either allergic-type reactions or contrast-induced nephropathy. Some people also suffer from thyroid dysfunction and hypersensitivity reactions. To prevent the occurrence of these side effects, regulators are also educating individuals associated with the health sector on the improvement of diagnosis to foster the safety of patients. For example, in September 2024, the WHO announced a webinar organized on World Patient Safety Day to educate on medical imaging and radiation safety.
- Limited innovation in iodinated CT agents: Innovation in iodinated CT agents is limited, which is expected to hamper the market growth to a certain extent. The use of certain iodinated contrast agents in patients having diabetes and pre-existing renal impairment increases the chances of the kidneys being dysfunctional. Gadolinium and dilute ICM are the alternatives to iodinated CT agents. However, these agents cause side effects and allergic reactions in the human body. Nausea, headaches, rash, dizziness, and injection-site discomfort are some of the side effects of Gadolinium. Thus, the lack of innovation in iodinated CT can create concerns among patients regarding imaging, especially when there is no suitable alternative.
Contrast Media Market Size and Forecast:
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
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Base Year |
2025 |
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Forecast Year |
2026-2037 |
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CAGR |
7.9% |
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Base Year Market Size (2025) |
USD 6.9 billion |
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Forecast Year Market Size (2037) |
USD 17.1 billion |
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Regional Scope |
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Contrast Media Market Segmentation:
Modality Segment Analysis
The computed tomography segment is expected to account for a market share of 38.7% by the end of 2037, owing to high demand for CT scans to cater to rising prevalence of chronic diseases globally. Companies are investing in developing advanced computed tomography technologies and devices. For example, in May 2023, Philips launched Philips CT 3500, an AI-powered system of computed tomography that boosts the routine radiology and high-volume programs of screening through its high throughput capacity. The technology is effective in terms of productivity and for appropriate imaging at the first attempt due to the AI-powered workflow and image construction.
Application Segment Analysis
By 2037, the cardiovascular disorders segment is anticipated to acquire a market share of 48.2% owing high prevalence of cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) worldwide and growing focus on developing advanced contrast media for cardiovascular imaging. According to the WHO statistics, around 19.8 million people suffered from CVDs in 2022, and the number is expected to increase to around 40 million by 2050.
The ongoing advancements in contrast-enhanced imaging using agents, such as Lumason and Optison is expected to fuel the segment growth during the forecast period. In June 2025, GE HealthCare launched single-photon emission computed tomography-computed tomography (SPECT/CT), positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT), and Flyrcado (flurpiridaz F 18) injection to develop precision care for cardiovascular disorders.
End use Segment Analysis
The hospitals segment is expected to expand at a rapid CAGR during the forecast period, owing to advancements in healthcare infrastructure focused on integrating advanced contrast media in patient diagnosis. Hospitals globally are also initiating strategic partnerships to increase the availability of media agents that are approved by regulatory bodies. For example, in February 2023, a leading supplier of diagnostic imaging modalities, Bracco, announced the completion of the trial of its newly developed advanced contrast agent, VUEWAY (gadopiclenol) injection, at the Wellstar Health System. It is an eco-friendly macrocyclic GBCA that needs a minimal dose of gadolinium.
Our in-depth analysis of the global market includes the following segments:
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Segment |
Subsegments |
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Modality |
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Product |
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Application |
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Administration |
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End use |
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Vishnu Nair
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Contrast Media Market - Regional Analysis
North America Market Insights
The contrast media market in North America is expected to account for a revenue share of 37.5% by the end of 2037, owing to the presence of the key global industry players within the region. Companies based in the U.S. are constantly developing relevant technologies to make the use of contrast media more precise. For example, in October 2024, Cracco Diagnostic announced the launch of AiMIFY, an AI-powered software capable of making contrast imaging more precise, facilitating improved visualization.
The U.S is expected to expand at a rapid CAGR during the forecast period, due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases. As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in April 2024, over 16 million people in the U.S are living with diseases that are caused by smoking. Heart attacks, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and other chronic health conditions are common due to poor nutrition and physical activity across the nation. Moreover, the advancements in contrast media formulations fuel the market growth. For example, in June 2025, Bayer submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA for the approval of the newly developed contrast agent gadoquatrane. The contrast agent is effective for contrast-enhanced resonance imaging, to be applied to adults and pediatric patients.
The contrast media market in Canada is expected to account for a significant market share by 2037, due to adequate investment by the government to improve the healthcare infrastructure. Key market players in Canada are also focusing on the development of advanced contrast agents. For instance, in February 2023, Voyageur Pharmaceuticals planned the launch of SmoothX barium sulfate CT contrast media oral suspension in Canada. The contrast agent was deemed palatable by patients. Thus, the development of the advanced contrast agent mitigates the challenges associated with ease of consumption and palatability in the market.
Asia Pacific Market Insights
The Asia Pacific contrast media market is anticipated to reach a remarkable share by 2037, owing to the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and cancer. The improving healthcare infrastructure and rising focus on patient-centric care also fuel the market growth. As reported by the WHO in January 2025, technologies such as Big Data for healthcare policy-related decision-making, AI for the provision of personalized care, and others, are being leveraged across the Asia Pacific.
China is poised to display notable growth by the end of 2037, owing to the rising geriatric population across the country. As per the report by the State Council of China in October 2024, around 297 million people in China are aged over 60 years. Companies in China are receiving regulatory approvals for new contrast media. One such example is the announcement of Farmak International, a leading pharmaceutical company operational in China, in December 2024, regarding the successful registration of the newly developed MRI contrast agent Gadoteric Acid Meglumine Salt Injection. The rising geriatric population and the approval of new contrast media fuel the demand for and advancement of diagnostic imaging.
India is set to witness significant growth, as it has the second-highest number of diabetes patients, indicating high demand for diagnostic imaging requiring contrast media. Involvement of companies in innovating novel contrast media also boosts the market growth. In July 2024, a leading medical technology company in India, Trivitron Healthcare, launched a state-of-the-art CT scanner, modelled as Terrene. Regulatory bodies that include the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) approved the contrast media.
Europe Market Insights
Europe is expected to register rapid growth by the end of 2037. The emergence of contrast agents, including syringeless injectors, low-osmolality contrast media, and others, increasing patient throughput, improving diagnostic safety, are some key factors fueling the market growth. Moreover, guidelines by regulatory bodies to enhance safety in imaging procedures boost the market growth by encouraging ethical practices. For example, in July 2025, the European Society of Radiology recommended using low-dose CT to screen for lung cancer, focusing on lesions of error in measurement and aggressiveness.
Germany contrast media market is set to show remarkable growth during the forecast period, owing to demographic shifts. As per the forecast by the American Association of Retired Persons, one-third of the population in Germany will be aged over 65 years. Such an aging population is likely to increase the demand for diagnostic procedures over time, considering the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. The adoption of measures to improve the healthcare infrastructure of the nation by the government also fuels the contrast market growth in Germany by influencing the adoption of advanced contrast agents. For instance, as reported by the International Trade Administration in August 2025, major hospital reforms are underway in Germany.
France is expected to emerge as the second most promising contrast media market by 2037, due to the expansion of applications related to neuroimaging. In November 2024, the Paris Brain Institute launched the 7-Tesla MAGNETOM Terra.X MRI scanner. With the launch of this exceptional piece of imaging equipment, France has made significant progress towards the next generation neuroscience community. People in France prefer minimally invasive surgeries due to their reduced recovery times and the risk profile. With the launch of the advanced imaging devices, healthcare practitioners in France can gain a more in-depth understanding of diseases. The need for precise screening increases with the rising preference for minimally invasive surgeries.
Key Contrast Media Market Players:
- Company Overview
- Business Strategy
- Key Product Offerings
- Financial Performance
- Key Performance Indicators
- Risk Analysis
- Recent Development
- Regional Presence
- SWOT Analysis
The competitive landscape of the global contrast media market is highly competitive, with key players operating at global and regional levels. Companies operating in the contrast media market are focusing on the development of contrast media, catering to rising demand and expanding their product portfolios, global reach. Research and development for the advancement of contrast agents is prioritized by the key players to the utmost. Below are some of the key players operating in the contrast media market:
|
Company |
Country of Origin |
Approx. Market Share % |
|
GE HealthCare |
U.S. |
15.2 |
|
Bracco |
Italy |
11 |
|
Bayer AG |
Germany |
9 |
|
Guerbet |
France |
5 |
|
Trivitron Healthcare |
India |
5 |
|
Lantheus Medical Imaging |
U.S. |
xx |
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Fresenius |
Germany |
xx |
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AMAG Pharmaceuticals |
U.S. |
xx |
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General Electric |
U.S. |
xx |
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Nano Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd |
India |
xx |
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Daiichi Sankyo Company |
Japan |
xx |
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Beijing Beilu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. |
China |
xx |
|
iMAX |
Canada |
xx |
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GRUPO JUSTE |
Spain |
xx |
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JB Pharma |
India |
xx |
Below are the areas covered for each company in the contrast media market:
Recent Developments
- In April 2025, Voyageur completed its development of the Barium contrast product line to launch in Canada. The company also made the product line in countries that accept the health standards of Canada.
- In April 2025, Bayer revealed at the ECR Congress that it is actively integrating AI in the imaging process to alleviate the burden on radiologists. The efforts of the company are reflected in the launch of AI-enabled radiology apps Calantic.
- In October 2023, the European Medicines Agency reported that it approved Elucirem, developed by Guerbet, for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to be applied among adults and children aged more than 2 years.
- In April 2023, GE Healthcare initiated an expansion of its contrast media portfolio through the launch of the MRI Agent Pixxoscan (gadobutrol). The contrast media product provides the radiologist with access to increased contrast agents, which leads to personalized patient care.
- Report ID: 4917
- Published Date: Sep 05, 2025
- Report Format: PDF, PPT
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