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Add to CartGlobal Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Covert and Overt.By Diagnosis;
Blood Tests, Liver Function Test, Detection Of Serum Ammonia Levels, Encephalogram, and Others.By Treatment;
Lactulose, Antibiotics, Probiotics, Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Liver Transplantation, and Others.By End User;
Hospitals & Clinics, Research Institutes, Surgical Centers, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market was valued at USD 160.51 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 302.97 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.5%.
When the liver sustains severe damage and becomes incapable of effectively filtering toxins from the blood, a critical condition known as overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) arises. In this state, toxins accumulate in the brain, disrupting mental processes and behavior. OHE poses a grave threat, as it can lead to coma or even death. This condition predominantly manifests in individuals with cirrhosis, a chronic liver disease characterized by extensive scarring and impaired liver function. The development of OHE is closely linked to the extent of liver damage and its impact on consciousness. Clinical observations indicate that approximately 55% of cirrhotic patients are at risk of developing OHE during their medical care.
OHE can be categorized into two main types based on its severity: covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) and overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). While both types are associated with cognitive impairment, OHE is distinguished by its overt, external manifestations, making it readily identifiable in affected individuals. Unlike covert hepatic encephalopathy, where symptoms may be subtle and difficult to detect, OHE presents with evident signs and symptoms that significantly impact the patient's overall health and well-being.
The symptoms of overt hepatic encephalopathy encompass a range of neurological and physiological abnormalities, including metabolic imbalances, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and liver infections. These symptoms can vary in severity and may progress rapidly, posing a significant risk to the patient's health. Importantly, OHE is linked to higher rates of hospitalization and mortality, as well as a diminished quality of life for affected individuals. The profound impact of OHE on patients' physical and cognitive functioning underscores the urgent need for prompt diagnosis and intervention. In clinical practice, the management of overt hepatic encephalopathy typically involves a multifaceted approach aimed at addressing both the underlying liver disease and the acute neurological symptoms. Treatment strategies may include the administration of medications to reduce ammonia levels in the blood, dietary modifications to minimize toxin buildup, and supportive care to manage complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding or infections. Additionally, patients with OHE may require close monitoring in a hospital setting to ensure timely intervention and prevent further deterioration.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Recent Developments
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In April 2022, Salix Pharmaceuticals, a gastroenterology division of Bausch Health Companies Inc, the world's largest specialty pharmaceutical firm, launched its gastrointestinal illness prevention and treatment. The business presented four posters data for XIFAXAN (rifaximin) and RELISTO (methylnaltrexone bromide) at the Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) Converge 2022 annual meeting, which will be held from April 7 to 10, 2022, in Nashville, Tennessee. In comparison to Lactulose alone, Rifaximin Treatment for Hepatic Encephalopathy can reduce the number of emergency days in the Emergency Department.
Segment Analysis
The Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market is poised for robust growth, driven by several key factors and segmented by type, diagnosis, treatment, and end-user. By type, the market is segmented into covert and overt hepatic encephalopathy (CHE and OHE). While both types involve cognitive impairment, OHE is characterized by evident external manifestations, leading to higher hospitalization rates and mortality. By diagnosis, the market includes blood tests, liver function tests, detection of serum ammonia levels, encephalogram, and others. These diagnostic modalities play a crucial role in identifying and assessing the severity of hepatic encephalopathy, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring patient progress. Thirdly, by treatment, the market comprises lactulose, antibiotics, probiotics, branched-chain amino acids, liver transplantation, and others. Lactulose remains the cornerstone of treatment for hepatic encephalopathy, while antibiotics target gut bacteria implicated in ammonia production. Probiotics and branched-chain amino acids offer promising adjunctive therapies, while liver transplantation may be considered in severe cases. By end-user, the market encompasses hospitals & clinics, research institutes, surgical centers, and others. Hospitals and clinics serve as primary care settings for OHE diagnosis and management, while research institutes drive innovation through clinical trials and scientific research. Surgical centers play a vital role in providing advanced treatment options such as liver transplantation. Overall, the segment analysis underscores the diverse facets of the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, highlighting opportunities for market players to innovate, collaborate, and address unmet needs in this critical area of liver disease management.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by Type, Diagnosis, Treatment, End User, and Geography.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by Type into Covert and Overt.
Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is characterized by subtle cognitive impairments and neuropsychiatric symptoms that may not be readily apparent on clinical evaluation. Despite the absence of overt signs, CHE can significantly impact the patient's daily functioning, leading to deficits in attention, memory, and executive function. Furthermore, CHE is associated with an increased risk of progression to overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) and adverse outcomes such as hospitalization and mortality. In contrast, overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) is marked by pronounced neurological and behavioral abnormalities, including altered consciousness, confusion, disorientation, and motor dysfunction. OHE represents a more severe form of HE, often requiring urgent medical intervention and hospitalization to prevent further deterioration and complications. The segmentation of the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market into covert and overt types enables healthcare providers and stakeholders to differentiate between varying degrees of HE severity, tailor treatment approaches, and allocate resources more effectively to meet the diverse needs of patients across the disease spectrum. Moreover, this segmentation facilitates research efforts aimed at elucidating the underlying mechanisms, risk factors, and prognostic indicators associated with different HE subtypes, ultimately informing the development of targeted interventions and personalized management strategies to improve outcomes for individuals affected by this debilitating condition.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, Segmentation by Diagnosis
The Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by Diagnosis into Blood Tests, Liver Function Test, Detection Of Serum Ammonia Levels, Encephalogram, and Others.
Blood tests are a fundamental diagnostic tool utilized to evaluate liver function and detect abnormalities in blood chemistry, such as elevated levels of ammonia, bilirubin, and liver enzymes. These tests provide valuable insights into the underlying pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy and help guide treatment decisions. Liver function tests (LFTs) are another essential component of OHE diagnosis, assessing the liver's ability to metabolize substances, produce proteins, and excrete waste products. Abnormal LFT results, such as elevated bilirubin levels or prolonged prothrombin time, may indicate liver dysfunction and the presence of hepatic encephalopathy. Detection of serum ammonia levels is a critical diagnostic parameter in OHE, as elevated ammonia levels in the blood are strongly associated with the development and severity of hepatic encephalopathy. Encephalogram (EEG) is a neuroimaging technique used to evaluate brain function and detect abnormal electrical activity indicative of neurological disorders, including hepatic encephalopathy. EEG findings, such as generalized slowing or triphasic waves, may provide supportive evidence for the diagnosis of OHE and help assess the patient's neurological status. Collectively, these diagnostic modalities play a complementary role in the comprehensive evaluation of OHE, facilitating early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely intervention to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, Segmentation by Treatment
The Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by Treatment into Lactulose, Antibiotics, Probiotics, Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Liver Transplantation, and Others.
Lactulose, a synthetic disaccharide, represents one of the cornerstone treatments for Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy (OHE). By promoting the excretion of ammonia in the colon and reducing its absorption into the bloodstream, lactulose helps lower blood ammonia levels and alleviate neurological symptoms in OHE patients. Antibiotics, such as rifaximin and neomycin, are commonly prescribed to target intestinal bacteria responsible for ammonia production, thereby reducing systemic ammonia levels and improving OHE symptoms. Probiotics, comprising beneficial bacteria strains, offer a promising alternative or adjunctive therapy for OHE by restoring gut microbiota balance, enhancing intestinal barrier function, and modulating inflammatory responses. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, have shown efficacy in managing OHE by providing an alternative energy source for the brain, reducing ammonia production, and improving cognitive function in cirrhotic patients. In cases of advanced liver disease, liver transplantation may be considered as a definitive treatment option for OHE, offering a chance for long-term survival and improved quality of life. Other treatment modalities for OHE encompass a range of supportive care measures, including dietary modifications, nutritional supplementation, fluid and electrolyte management, and management of coexisting comorbidities. Overall, the segmentation of the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market by treatment highlights the diverse therapeutic options available for managing this complex condition, providing healthcare providers and patients with a comprehensive toolkit to address the multifaceted challenges of OHE and improve patient outcomes.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, Segmentation by End User
The Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by End User into Hospitals & Clinics, Research Institutes, Surgical Centers, and Others.
Hospitals and clinics serve as primary points of care for patients with liver diseases and related complications, including overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). These healthcare facilities provide comprehensive diagnostic services, specialized medical expertise, and a range of treatment modalities to effectively manage OHE and its associated symptoms. With access to advanced medical equipment, multidisciplinary teams of healthcare professionals, and specialized units such as hepatology departments and intensive care units (ICUs), hospitals and clinics offer optimal care for OHE patients, including acute management during episodes of encephalopathy and long-term follow-up care.
Research institutes also play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of hepatic encephalopathy and developing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. Through basic science research, clinical trials, and translational studies, research institutes contribute to the identification of novel biomarkers, elucidation of underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, and evaluation of experimental treatments for OHE. By collaborating with academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare providers, research institutes facilitate the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical practice, driving progress in the field of hepatic encephalopathy management. Additionally, surgical centers are integral to the management of OHE in patients with advanced liver disease who may require invasive interventions such as liver transplantation or shunt procedures. Surgical centers provide specialized expertise in liver surgery, interventional radiology, and transplant medicine, offering OHE patients access to life-saving procedures and therapeutic options. Surgical centers collaborate closely with hepatology teams and transplant programs to optimize patient selection, surgical planning, and perioperative care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for OHE patients undergoing surgical interventions.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and, Africa and Latin America.
Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America continues to dominate the significant market growth of the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy (HOE) Market, and this trend is expected to persist over the forecast period. Several factors contribute to North America's supremacy in this market. Firstly, there has been a notable increase in awareness and understanding of HOE among healthcare professionals and the general population in the region. This heightened awareness has facilitated early detection, diagnosis, and management of the condition, resulting in improved patient outcomes and reduced morbidity and mortality rates. Additionally, North America boasts access to advanced medical technologies and effective treatment approaches for HOE, including pharmacological interventions, dietary modifications, and liver transplantation. The presence of leading pharmaceutical companies and academic research institutions conducting extensive research and development activities to create breakthrough medicines further propels market expansion in the region. Moreover, the aging population in North America and the consequent rise in the number of individuals suffering from cirrhosis, a leading cause of HOE, contribute to the market's growth trajectory.
Europe is poised to experience high revenue market growth in the Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to several factors unique to the region. Firstly, Europe is witnessing a surge in research and development (R&D) activities focused on the treatment and management of liver ailments, including HOE. The region's robust scientific infrastructure and collaborative research networks facilitate innovation and drive progress in the development of novel therapies and diagnostic tools for HOE. Additionally, the prevalence of HOE caused by alcohol intake is notably high in Europe, particularly in countries with a culture of heavy alcohol consumption. This prevalence contributes to the growing demand for HOE-related healthcare services and treatments, driving market growth in the region. Overall, Europe's significant contribution to the global overt hepatic encephalopathy market can be attributed to its strong emphasis on scientific research, coupled with the high prevalence of the condition within the population.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Pipeline Development and Research Initiatives
- Increasing Awareness and Screening Programs
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Increasing Prevalence of Liver Diseases- Liver diseases encompass a spectrum of conditions, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer, among others. As these liver diseases progress, they can impair liver function and lead to complications such as hepatic encephalopathy. One of the primary risk factors for hepatic encephalopathy is cirrhosis, a chronic liver disease characterized by extensive scarring of liver tissue. Cirrhosis can result from various causes, including chronic alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and autoimmune liver diseases. As the incidence and prevalence of these underlying liver diseases increase globally, particularly in regions with rising rates of obesity, alcohol consumption, and viral hepatitis, the pool of patients at risk of developing hepatic encephalopathy also expands. Moreover, the aging population contributes to the increasing prevalence of liver diseases and hepatic encephalopathy. As individuals age, they may develop chronic liver conditions due to factors such as long-term alcohol consumption, exposure to hepatotoxic medications, or the cumulative effects of metabolic syndrome and other comorbidities. Additionally, older adults may have reduced liver function and a higher risk of developing complications such as cirrhosis, making them more susceptible to hepatic encephalopathy.
The increasing prevalence of liver diseases has profound implications for healthcare systems worldwide, driving demand for diagnostic tests, therapeutic interventions, and supportive care services to manage hepatic encephalopathy and its complications.
Restraints
- Stigma and Misunderstanding
- Disease Progression and Recurrence
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Limited Treatment Options- Despite advancements in medical science and technology, the management of OHE remains a complex and multifaceted endeavor, with a limited repertoire of therapeutic interventions available. This constraint stems from several factors inherent to the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of OHE. The underlying mechanisms contributing to the development of OHE are not fully understood, complicating efforts to identify molecular targets and develop targeted therapies. OHE is believed to result from the accumulation of neurotoxic substances, such as ammonia, in the brain due to impaired liver function. However, the precise pathways through which these toxins exert their effects on neurological function remain incompletely elucidated, hampering the development of specific pharmacological agents to mitigate their impact. Additionally, the management of OHE is further complicated by the heterogeneity of the patient population and the variable nature of the condition. OHE can manifest across a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to profound alterations in consciousness and behavior. Moreover, OHE may occur as an acute episode or as a chronic, recurring condition, requiring different approaches to treatment and management. This diversity in clinical presentation necessitates a personalized approach to therapy, tailored to the individual patient's needs and underlying etiology. Furthermore, the limited treatment options for OHE contribute to challenges in achieving optimal outcomes for patients. Currently available pharmacological interventions, such as lactulose and rifaximin, aim to reduce ammonia levels in the blood and alleviate symptoms of OHE. However, these treatments are not universally effective and may be associated with adverse effects, including gastrointestinal discomfort and antibiotic resistance. Moreover, the long-term efficacy of pharmacological therapies in preventing OHE recurrence and improving overall survival remains uncertain, highlighting the need for alternative treatment modalities.
The scarcity of treatment options in the OHE market underscores the urgent need for continued research and innovation to address this unmet medical need. Efforts to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of OHE, identify novel therapeutic targets, and develop innovative treatment approaches hold promise for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration between academia, industry, and regulatory agencies can facilitate the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical practice, accelerating the development and approval of new therapies for OHE.
Opportunities
- Patient Education and Support
- Advancements in Medical Technology
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Rising Incidence of Liver Diseases- Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer, are major contributors to the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). As the prevalence of these liver diseases continues to increase worldwide, particularly due to factors such as alcohol consumption, obesity, viral infections, and metabolic disorders, the pool of patients at risk of developing OHE also expands. This growing patient population creates a demand for diagnostic tests, treatment modalities, and supportive care strategies tailored to the management of OHE. The rising incidence of liver diseases drives the need for early detection and diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy among at-risk patients. Healthcare providers and diagnostic companies can capitalize on this opportunity by developing and commercializing innovative diagnostic tools and screening protocols for the timely identification of OHE symptoms. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and treatment initiation, potentially preventing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.
The increasing prevalence of liver diseases highlights the importance of effective management strategies for OHE. Pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers can leverage this opportunity by investing in the development of new pharmacological agents, dietary supplements, and supportive care interventions aimed at managing OHE symptoms and improving patient quality of life. Additionally, there is a growing demand for personalized treatment approaches that address the underlying causes of liver disease and target specific pathways involved in hepatic encephalopathy pathogenesis.
The rising incidence of liver diseases necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, involving collaboration between hepatologists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. This presents opportunities for healthcare organizations to establish specialized liver clinics, multidisciplinary care teams, and comprehensive disease management programs focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of OHE. By offering integrated and coordinated care services, healthcare providers can optimize patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience for individuals affected by liver diseases and hepatic encephalopathy.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market include:
- Alfa Wassermann S.P.A
- Rebiotix Inc.
- Cosmo Pharmaceuticals S.P.A
- Spherium Biomed S.L
- Horizon Pharma Plc
- Umecrine Cognition AB
- Ocera Therapeutics Inc.
- Kannalife Sciences Inc.
- Bausch Health Companies Inc.
- ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd
- Norgine BV
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
- Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc.
- Abbott Laboratories
- Bausch Health Companies Inc.
- Lupin Limited
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Diagnosis
- Market Snapshot, By Treatment
- Market Snapshot, By End User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Pipeline Development and Research Initiatives
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Increasing Awareness and Screening Programs
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Increasing Prevalence of Liver Diseases
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- Restraints
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Stigma and Misunderstanding
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Disease Progression and Recurrence
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Limited Treatment Options
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- Opportunities
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Patient Education and Support
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Advancements in Medical Technology
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Rising Incidence of Liver Diseases
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Covert
- Overt
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By Diagnosis, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Blood Tests
- Liver Function Test
- Detection Of Serum Ammonia Levels
- Encephalogram
- Others
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By Treatment, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Lactulose
- Antibiotics
- Probiotics
- Branched-Chain Amino Acids
- Liver Transplantation
- Others
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By End User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Hospitals & Clinics
- Research Institutes
- Surgical Centers
- Others
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
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Alfa Wassermann S.P.A
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Rebiotix Inc.
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Cosmo Pharmaceuticals S.P.A
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Spherium Biomed S.L
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Horizon Pharma Plc
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Umecrine Cognition AB
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Ocera Therapeutics Inc.
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Kannalife Sciences Inc.
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Bausch Health Companies Inc.
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ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd
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Norgine BV
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Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
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Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc.
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Abbott Laboratories
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Bausch Health Companies Inc.
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Lupin Limited
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- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market