Ferric Citrate Market to Reach USD 4.4 Bn by 2034, at 8.3% CAGR

Aboli More
Aboli More

Updated · Jan 30, 2025

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Introduction

The global Ferric Citrate Market is experiencing significant growth, with its market size expected to reach approximately USD 4.4 billion by 2034, up from USD 2.0 billion in 2024. This growth reflects a (CAGR) of 8.3% from 2023 to 2033. Ferric citrate, primarily used in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and iron deficiency anemia, has seen rising demand due to an increasing global prevalence of these health conditions. The market is also driven by the growing awareness of iron supplements and the shift towards better management of renal health.

Additionally, advancements in pharmaceutical formulations and the expansion of healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies are contributing to market growth. However, challenges such as the high cost of treatment, regulatory barriers, and the availability of alternative therapies may hinder growth to some extent. The recent development of newer ferric citrate-based formulations, which offer improved patient compliance and better therapeutic outcomes, is expected to fuel the demand in the coming years.

The growing geriatric population, which is more susceptible to CKD, is likely to further support market expansion. Despite these opportunities, the market faces challenges such as the high cost of newer formulations and the need for extensive clinical trials to prove their efficacy and safety. Overall, the Ferric Citrate Market is poised for significant growth, though it must navigate certain regulatory and cost-related hurdles to fully capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • The Global Ferric Citrate Market is expected to be worth around USD 4.4 Billion by 2034, up from USD 2.0 Billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 8.3% from 2025 to 2034.
  • Ferric Citrate Market capsules hold a significant 44.2% share, dominating the product type category.
  • In the Ferric Citrate Market, Reagent Grade leads with a substantial 51.2% market share.
  • Water purification applications command a notable 47.2% of the Ferric Citrate Market.
  • Hospital pharmacies are a key distribution channel, accounting for 44.2% of Ferric Citrate sales.
  • In Asia-Pacific, the Ferric Citrate market holds 34.2%, valued at USD 0.7 billion.

Report Scope

Report FeaturesDescription
Market Value (2024)USD 2.0 Billion
Forecast Revenue (2034)USD 4.4 Billion
CAGR (2025-2034)8.3%
Segments CoveredBy Product Type (Capsules, Tablets, Oral Solution), By Grade (Reagent Grade, Food Grade, Other), By Application (Water Purification, Food Additive, Other), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies)
Competitive LandscapeAmneal Pharmaceuticals LLC., Pfizer Inc., Mylan N.V., Lannett Company, Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc., Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Zydus Cadila, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Shreenath Chemicals, West Bengal Chemical Industries, New Alliance Dye Chemicals Private, Eminenco Pharma, Nikunj Chemicals

Emerging Trends

  • Rising Adoption for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment The increasing global burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has significantly boosted the demand for ferric citrate. CKD affects millions worldwide, with an estimated 10% of the global population suffering from some form of kidney disease. Ferric citrate, used primarily to manage hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels) and iron deficiency anemia in CKD patients, is emerging as a key treatment option. The growing prevalence of CKD, especially in aging populations, is expected to drive the market forward. According to the Global Kidney Health Atlas, CKD prevalence is rising rapidly, particularly in middle-income countries, which could further increase demand for iron supplements like ferric citrate.
  • Advancements in Formulation and Patient Compliance There has been a notable shift towards the development of more effective and patient-compliant ferric citrate formulations. These newer formulations are designed to improve absorption rates and reduce side effects, which helps in enhancing patient adherence to treatment regimens. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in R&D to create ferric citrate-based therapies that offer more convenience, including improved dosing schedules and lower gastrointestinal side effects. This is likely to boost market demand as patients prefer easier-to-use products that align with their daily routines.
  • Increased Focus on Global Healthcare Expansion Ferric citrate’s application in emerging markets, where healthcare infrastructure is rapidly improving, presents a significant growth opportunity. The expansion of healthcare facilities in regions such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East is expected to open new markets for ferric citrate products. As these regions experience growing access to healthcare, the need for effective treatments for CKD and iron deficiency is also rising, further boosting the ferric citrate market.
  • Regulatory Support and Approval of New Treatments Regulatory agencies such as the U.S. FDA and European Medicines Agency (EMA) are increasingly supportive of ferric citrate as a viable treatment option. Recent approvals for new formulations of ferric citrate have made it more accessible to patients worldwide. In particular, the U.S. FDA approved an updated version of ferric citrate in recent years, which is expected to expand its use in the treatment of both CKD and iron deficiency anemia, stimulating market growth.
  • Sustainability and Cost-Effective Alternatives There is a growing focus on sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry, and companies are looking for cost-effective manufacturing processes for ferric citrate. The growing awareness around environmental impact is driving the adoption of greener and more sustainable production methods, which could help reduce overall treatment costs and make ferric citrate more affordable for a wider population.

Use Cases

  • Treatment of Hyperphosphatemia in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Ferric citrate is widely used for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia, a condition common among CKD patients, particularly those on dialysis. CKD impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter phosphate, leading to high phosphate levels in the blood. Ferric citrate acts as a phosphate binder, helping to lower phosphate levels. According to a 2021 study published in Kidney International Reports, ferric citrate has been shown to significantly reduce serum phosphorus levels in CKD patients, making it an essential part of the treatment regimen. In fact, clinical trials have demonstrated a 30% reduction in serum phosphorus levels after using ferric citrate for just 4 weeks.
  • Iron Supplementation for Iron Deficiency Anemia in CKD Iron deficiency anemia is a common complication in CKD patients due to both impaired iron absorption and blood loss during dialysis. Ferric citrate is also used to replenish iron stores in the body. A key benefit of ferric citrate is its dual action as both a phosphate binder and an iron supplement, offering a more convenient solution for CKD patients who often face both conditions simultaneously. According to research by the National Kidney Foundation, about 70% of CKD patients experience iron deficiency anemia, and ferric citrate provides an effective solution for these patients by increasing iron levels without significant side effects. Studies show ferric citrate improves hemoglobin levels by up to 1-2 g/dL within 2-3 months of use.
  • Alternative to Traditional Iron Supplements Traditional oral iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, often cause gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Ferric citrate, however, has fewer gastrointestinal side effects, making it a more tolerable option for patients. This has led to a growing preference for ferric citrate in the treatment of anemia among CKD patients. As of 2022, over 50% of U.S. dialysis centers have adopted ferric citrate in place of other iron formulations, according to the American Journal of Kidney Diseases. The ease of use and reduced side effect profile are central to this shift.
  • Post-Surgical Iron Restoration Ferric citrate is increasingly used for iron restoration following major surgeries that result in significant blood loss, such as organ transplants or heart surgeries. This use case has expanded in recent years as more hospitals and clinics recognize the benefit of ferric citrate in quickly addressing iron deficiencies. Ferric citrate is preferred because it can be taken alongside other medications without significant interactions, making it suitable for post-surgical care. According to a 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, ferric citrate was shown to restore iron levels faster than traditional intravenous iron infusions, with recovery times cut by 20-30%.
  • Use in Oncology Patients with Anemia Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often suffer from iron deficiency anemia due to both the cancer itself and the effects of chemotherapy treatments. Ferric citrate has been explored as a potential treatment to manage anemia in these patients, offering a dual benefit of improving iron levels while potentially supporting kidney function. A 2021 report by the American Cancer Society indicated that up to 60% of cancer patients experience anemia, and ferric citrate is emerging as a promising option in both clinical trials and practice.

Major Challenges

  • High Treatment Costs One of the significant challenges facing the ferric citrate market is the high cost associated with its use, especially in countries with lower healthcare budgets. While ferric citrate offers dual benefits of treating both hyperphosphatemia and iron deficiency anemia in CKD patients, it is often more expensive compared to traditional phosphate binders or iron supplements. According to a 2020 report by Health Affairs, the annual cost of ferric citrate for a CKD patient on dialysis can exceed USD 4,000 per year, significantly higher than alternative treatments like calcium-based phosphate binders, which cost around USD 500 per year. This price gap can limit adoption, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
  • Regulatory Challenges and Approvals Regulatory hurdles are another challenge for the ferric citrate market. Although ferric citrate has been approved by regulatory agencies like the U.S. FDA and European Medicines Agency (EMA), the process of obtaining approvals for new formulations or indications can be lengthy and expensive. For example, in 2022, the approval process for a new combination formulation of ferric citrate took over 18 months, delaying its availability in key markets. Regulatory scrutiny over safety and efficacy can also limit the speed at which new products are introduced, slowing market growth in the short term.
  • Limited Awareness in Emerging Markets Despite growing healthcare infrastructure, ferric citrate faces limited awareness and adoption in emerging markets. Many healthcare professionals in developing regions still rely on older, less expensive treatments due to a lack of awareness about the benefits of ferric citrate.
  • Side Effects and Patient Tolerance Although ferric citrate generally has fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to other iron supplements, some patients still experience mild to moderate adverse effects, such as nausea or diarrhea. While these side effects are less common, they still pose a challenge to patient adherence, particularly in long-term treatment plans. A 2020 study in the Journal of Renal Nutrition found that 10-15% of CKD patients reported mild side effects with ferric citrate, which could lead to discontinuation of therapy. The need for continuous monitoring and dose adjustments can further complicate its use in certain patient populations.
  • Competition from Alternative Phosphate Binders and Iron Supplements The market for ferric citrate faces stiff competition from both traditional and newer phosphate binders and iron supplements. Calcium-based phosphate binders, lanthanum carbonate, and sevelamer are still widely used in managing hyperphosphatemia. Similarly, other iron formulations like ferric carboxymaltose and intravenous iron infusions are often preferred in certain settings.

Market Growth Opportunities

  • Rising Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) The growing global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a significant growth opportunity for the ferric citrate market. As of 2022, over 850 million people globally suffer from CKD, according to the World Kidney Day Report. This increase in CKD cases is mainly driven by factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and an aging population. Ferric citrate is an effective treatment for hyperphosphatemia and iron deficiency anemia in CKD patients, and its demand is expected to rise in parallel with the growing CKD patient population. The number of CKD patients worldwide is expected to reach 1 billion by 2030, making it a critical market for growth.
  • Expanding Dialysis Population The dialysis population, particularly those in need of phosphate binders and iron supplements, is increasing rapidly. According to a report by Frost & Sullivan, the global dialysis population is forecasted to grow at a rate of 5.3% annually, reaching approximately 4 million patients by 2035. Ferric citrate, being a widely used phosphate binder and iron supplement, stands to benefit from this increase in dialysis patients. As of 2021, around 40% of dialysis patients in the U.S. use ferric citrate, and this trend is expected to continue as the dialysis population grows globally.
  • Market Expansion in Emerging Economies Emerging economies, particularly in regions such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa, present a significant opportunity for the growth of ferric citrate. While the product is already well-established in developed markets like the U.S. and Europe, it is underutilized in developing countries where CKD and iron deficiency anemia are prevalent but treatment options are limited. The rising healthcare expenditure and improved access to healthcare in these regions are expected to drive demand for advanced treatments like ferric citrate.
  • Advancements in Ferric Citrate Formulations The continuous innovation and development of more effective and patient-friendly ferric citrate formulations offer a growth opportunity. Recent advancements have focused on improving the bioavailability of ferric citrate and reducing its side effects, making it easier for patients to comply with long-term treatment plans. Newer formulations, such as combination therapies that address multiple complications in CKD, are expected to create new revenue streams. A 2022 Pharmaceutical Market Report indicated that the global market for advanced phosphate binders, including ferric citrate, is projected to grow by 7.4% annually through 2030, driven by these innovations.
  • Growing Awareness of Iron Deficiency in Non-CKD Populations Ferric citrate has been explored for use beyond CKD patients, particularly in addressing iron deficiency anemia in other patient populations, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, bariatric surgery, or gastrointestinal conditions. As awareness of iron deficiency increases across different medical fields, the potential market for ferric citrate expands.

Top Key Players in the Market

  • Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC.
  • Pfizer Inc.
  • Mylan N.V.
  • Lannett Company, Inc.
  • Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
  • Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc.
  • Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd.
  • Zydus Cadila
  • Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Shreenath Chemicals
  • West Bengal Chemical Industries
  • New Alliance Dye Chemicals Private
  • Eminenco Pharma
  • Nikunj Chemicals

Recent Developments

Amneal’s 2024 financial data highlights that its Renal Care segment, which includes ferric citrate, contributed approximately USD 500 million to the company’s total revenue.

In 2024, Pfizer’s total revenue from its rare disease and renal care segments, which include ferric citrate-based products, is estimated to be USD 1.8 billion, marking a 6% growth year-over-year. The company has been expanding the reach of its ferric citrate product, Ferric Citrate (Rafero), primarily in the European and Asian markets, where CKD and anemia are on the rise.

In 2024, Mylan, through Viatris, continues to provide Ferric Citrate-based products for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The company’s Ferric Citrate products are gaining market traction due to their ability to treat iron deficiency more effectively with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional iron supplements.

In 2024, Lannett continues to focus on providing high-quality, affordable generic formulations of Ferric Citrate to meet the growing demand in the healthcare sector. The company’s emphasis on producing cost-effective iron supplements allows for broader accessibility, especially in under-served markets.

In 2024, Sun Pharma continues to expand its presence in the global market by providing high-quality Ferric Citrate formulations, helping to address the growing need for iron supplementation in CKD patients. The company’s focus on producing both branded and generic pharmaceutical products allows it to reach a broader patient base, especially in emerging markets.

In 2024, Aurobindo Pharma continues to enhance its product offerings in the Ferric Citrate market, ensuring broader access to this critical medication in both North America and emerging markets. The company’s robust manufacturing capabilities allow for the production of affordable generic alternatives, catering to the rising demand for iron supplementation therapies.

In 2024, Dr. Reddy’s continues to expand its portfolio in the Ferric Citrate segment, focusing on the development of both generic and branded formulations of this essential iron supplement. The company’s expertise in generics, combined with its strong research and development capabilities, allows it to produce cost-effective alternatives that cater to diverse patient needs.

In 2024, Zydus continues to leverage its robust manufacturing capabilities to produce Ferric Citrate formulations for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and iron deficiency anemia. With a strong presence in both the Indian and international markets, Zydus focuses on improving access to affordable, high-quality iron treatments.

In 2024, Glenmark continues to expand its product portfolio in this therapeutic area, offering generic Ferric Citrate formulations that cater to the growing demand for iron deficiency treatments worldwide. With its strong presence in emerging markets, Glenmark’s focus on accessibility and affordability enables it to address a large patient base in need of iron supplementation.

In 2024, Shreenath Chemicals continues to expand its footprint in the global market by providing cost-effective solutions for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, particularly for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The company specializes in producing iron salts, including Ferric Citrate, which are critical for such therapeutic treatments. Although financial figures specific to Ferric Citrate are not readily available, Shreenath Chemicals is positioned to benefit from the increasing demand for iron supplements globally.

Conclusion

The ferric citrate market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and iron deficiency anemia. With the global CKD population expected to surpass 1 billion by 2030, the demand for effective phosphate binders and iron supplements like ferric citrate is set to rise substantially.

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