Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Treatment advancements: The growing occurrence of alcohol use disorder cases is driving the requirement for innovative treatments, fueling growth in the alcohol use disorder treatment market. In May 2022, Clearmind Medicine Inc. reported successful preclinical trial results for its proprietary molecule MEAI aimed at reducing alcohol consumption. It further stated that mice treated with MEAI significantly reduced their alcohol intake, while no harmful effects on major organs indicating a strong safety profile. This, in turn, drives the demand for specialized management procedures, supporting complex development and regulatory needs.
   
• Increased awareness and diagnosis rates: The increased public and medical awareness about AUD as a diagnosable medical condition is accelerating growth in the alcohol use disorder treatment market, with support from the regulatory bodies. For instance, in May 2024, DURECT Corporation declared that its larsucosterol received Breakthrough Therapy designation from the U.S. FDA for the treatment of patients with severe alcohol-associated hepatitis. This will encourage the key players in the market to develop and launch more of such effective formulations, amplifying market expansion during the forecast period.

Challenges

• Limited access to treatment: One of the major restraints in the alcohol use disorder treatment market is the limited access to AUD treatment particularly in developing regions. These services require specialized care and support services making the initial procedure substantial. Additionally at the places where treatment is available patient adherence can be low due to side effects, lack of ongoing support or financial constraints. These barriers reduce the long-term effectiveness of treatment programs and hinder market expansion.
   
• Social stigma: Another major challenge posed by the alcohol use disorder treatment market is the persistent societal stigma surrounding alcohol use disorders. These complications occur due to the intricate nature of individuals delaying or avoiding seeking help due to fear of judgment or misconceptions about addiction. Moreover, this stigma not only hampers early diagnosis but also discourages engagement with available treatment options, leading to health disparities despite high prevalence rates.