Constipation Treatment Market
By Drug Type;
Laxatives, Stool Softeners, Lubricants and OthersBy Treatment Type;
Oral Medications, Enemas, Rectal Suppositories and OthersBy Formulation;
Tablets, Liquid, Powder and OthersBy Distribution Channel;
Hospitals & Clinics, Pharmacies & Drugstores and Online PharmaciesBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Constipation Treatment Market Overview
Constipation Treatment Market (USD Million)
Constipation Treatment Market was valued at USD 18,475.63 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 27,063.91 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.6%.
Constipation Treatment Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.6 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 | 
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 | 
| CAGR (%) | 5.6 % | 
| Market Size (2024) | USD 18,475.63 Million | 
| Market Size (2031) | USD 27,063.91 Million | 
| Market Concentration | Medium | 
| Report Pages | 381 | 
Major Players
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd
 - Synergy Pharmaceuticals, Inc
 - Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc
 - Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc
 - Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc
 - Abbott Laboratories
 - AstraZeneca
 - Cosmo Pharmaceuticals NVSanofi
 - Daewoong Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd
 - Bayer AG
 - Prestige Brands Holdings, Inc
 - Janssen Pharmaceutical Company
 - Shionogi & Co., Ltd
 - Albireo Pharma
 - Renexxion
 
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Constipation Treatment Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Constipation Treatment Market is expanding steadily with the increasing prevalence of digestive health issues and rising demand for effective treatment solutions. Nearly 35% of individuals encounter constipation-related complications, encouraging innovation in pharmaceutical formulations and advanced laxative products to enhance patient comfort and therapeutic outcomes.
Increasing Demand for Innovative Therapies
Growing awareness of gut health and preference for non-invasive treatments are driving the adoption of advanced solutions. Over 40% of newly introduced therapies focus on target-specific mechanisms, providing faster relief, fewer side effects, and higher patient adherence, thereby improving treatment effectiveness and consumer trust.
Technological Advancements in Treatment Solutions
Innovations in drug delivery technologies, such as controlled-release systems and probiotic-based therapies, are reshaping the treatment landscape. Approximately 45% of manufacturers are investing in personalized therapeutic options, focusing on tailored solutions that improve treatment precision and maximize digestive health benefits.
Rise of Over-the-Counter Medications
The accessibility of over-the-counter remedies and natural treatment options is redefining patient preferences. Nearly 50% of consumers now opt for fiber-rich supplements, herbal formulations, and mild laxatives to manage symptoms independently, contributing to increased adoption of convenient, self-care-focused therapeutic approaches.
Future Prospects and Market Growth
With rising investments in research and development, the market is shifting toward combination treatments and innovative formulations. Over 38% of ongoing clinical trials are focused on delivering long-term relief and improving digestive wellness, positioning the market for strong growth and continuous technological advancements.
Constipation Treatment Market Key Takeaways
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Rising prevalence of digestive disorders—increasing incidence of constipation, especially among aging populations and sedentary lifestyles, is driving demand for effective treatments.
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Shift towards OTC and self-care products&mdash>consumers prefer over-the-counter laxatives, fiber supplements, and natural remedies for ease of access and convenience.
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Technological advancements in drug formulations&mdash>innovations such as slow-release tablets, palatable syrups, and combination therapies enhance efficacy and patient compliance.
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Emerging markets present growth opportunities&mdash>rising healthcare awareness, expanding retail pharmacy networks, and urbanization in Asia-Pacific and Latin America support market growth.
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Focus on natural and functional ingredients&mdash>products containing prebiotics, probiotics, and herbal extracts are gaining popularity due to perceived safety and health benefits.
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Healthcare provider recommendations influence adoption&mdash>physicians and pharmacists play a critical role in guiding treatment selection, particularly for chronic or severe cases.
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Regulatory compliance and safety remain key considerations&mdash>manufacturers must ensure adherence to safety standards, labeling, and quality controls to maintain market credibility.
 
Constipation Treatment Market Recent Developments
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In May 2025, Shionogi & Co. announced that China has accepted the New Drug Application (NDA) for naldemedine tosilate, a treatment for opioid-induced constipation (OIC). Developed by the company, naldemedine is a peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA). It has already been launched in countries such as Japan, the United States, Europe, and Taiwan, significantly helping improve symptoms for many patients dealing with opioid-induced constipation.
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In August 2025, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals and VectivBio entered into a definitive agreement for Ironwood to acquire VectivBio. This acquisition aims to pioneer novel treatments for severe rare gastrointestinal diseases such as constipation.
 
Constipation Treatment Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Constipation Treatment Market has been segmented by Drug Type, Treatment Type, Formulation, Distribution Channel and Geography.
Constipation Treatment Market, Segmentation by Drug Type
The Drug Type segmentation distinguishes how patients and providers select therapies based on mechanism of action, speed of relief, and safety profiles. Demand is shaped by self-medication trends, evolving clinical guidelines, and payer preferences for cost-effective options. Vendors pursue portfolio strategies spanning fast-acting and maintenance solutions, while partnerships with retail pharmacies and telehealth platforms help broaden access and adherence programs across age groups.
Laxatives
Laxatives remain the frontline choice in many care pathways thanks to broad availability and familiarity among consumers and clinicians. Growth is supported by innovations in osmotic and stimulant classes, patient education on titration, and improved tolerability messaging. Companies emphasize evidence-backed labeling, real-world outcomes, and OTC-to-digital engagement that encourages appropriate use and repeat purchase while minimizing misuse risks.
Stool Softeners
Stool Softeners address patients prioritizing gentle relief, including older adults and those on constipating medications. Brands differentiate via once-daily dosing, combination packs, and clinician outreach in primary care and geriatrics. Education focuses on hydration, dietary fiber co-use, and safety in long-term management, while distribution strategies leverage pharmacy counseling and targeted in-aisle positioning.
Lubricants
Lubricants serve niche needs for rapid facilitation of stool passage where straining must be minimized. Market relevance is tied to procedure preparation, post-surgical care, and patient cohorts with pelvic floor dysfunction. Suppliers underscore onset of action, clear instructions, and compatibility with other regimens, and collaborate with hospitals & clinics on standardized care protocols to support consistent outcomes.
Others
The Others category captures emerging and adjunct therapies, including secretagogues and novel mechanisms under evaluation. While smaller in absolute volume, this segment benefits from R&D investment, improved diagnostic stratification, and specialty prescriber engagement. Market entrants advance through evidence generation, real-world studies, and partnerships that extend access programs to specific, hard-to-treat subpopulations.
Constipation Treatment Market, Segmentation by Treatment Type
The Treatment Type lens reflects how care settings and patient preferences translate into modality choices for relief and maintenance. Stakeholders balance speed of onset, ease of administration, and adherence, while clinical pathways increasingly integrate lifestyle counseling and digital nudges. Companies invest in patient-centric design, clear instructions, and multi-channel education to reduce trial-and-error and improve outcomes.
Oral Medications
Oral Medications dominate for convenience, titratability, and broad OTC and prescription coverage. Growth strategies center on line extensions (flavors, sugar-free, low-sodium), smart refill prompts, and physician detailing on stepwise therapy. Suppliers highlight quality manufacturing, predictable onset, and transparent ingredient profiles that align with consumer trust and pharmacist recommendations.
Enemas
Enemas provide targeted, rapid relief for acute episodes and pre-procedure needs in clinical settings and at home. Vendors differentiate with ready-to-use delivery, safety valves, and clear dosing guidance to limit overuse. Hospital partnerships and protocol integration underpin demand, while education on indications and contraindications supports safer utilization.
Rectal Suppositories
Rectal Suppositories appeal where localized action and quick onset are desired, especially when oral routes are unsuitable. Messaging emphasizes precision dosing, predictable pharmacodynamics, and compatibility within step-care algorithms. Manufacturers collaborate with clinics and pharmacies to ensure counseling, storage stability, and clear instructions that minimize administration barriers.
Others
The Others segment encompasses adjunctive or specialized approaches, including combination regimens and supportive therapies. Commercial traction depends on clinical evidence, differentiation in tolerability, and integration into care management programs. Partnerships with telemedicine and remote monitoring platforms can expand reach to patients needing personalized titration and follow-up.
Constipation Treatment Market, Segmentation by Formulation
Formulation choices influence patient experience, adherence, and brand loyalty across demographics. Companies tailor Tablets, Liquid, and Powder formats to address swallowing ease, taste, portability, and dosing flexibility. Investments in stability, palatability, and fast-dissolving technologies, alongside sustainable packaging, help brands capture share in both OTC and Rx channels.
Tablets
Tablets are favored for convenience, precise dosing, and efficient shelf logistics. Vendors focus on film-coating for easier swallowing, modified-release profiles to match symptom patterns, and blister formats enhancing adherence tracking. Portfolio breadth across strengths supports step-up/down strategies recommended by clinicians and payers.
Liquid
Liquid formulations address pediatric, geriatric, and dysphagia populations requiring flexible dosing and improved swallowability. Brands emphasize taste-masking, measuring devices for accuracy, and clear storage guidance. Collaboration with pediatrics and home care providers supports education on dosing consistency and monitoring of response.
Powder
Powder formats enable customizable dosing and convenient mixing with beverages, aligning with daily wellness routines. Suppliers highlight rapid dissolution, low grit, and single-serve sachets for on-the-go use. Cross-merchandising with hydration and fiber products in retail and e-commerce bundles drives repeat purchase behavior.
Others
The Others formulation category includes chewables, orally disintegrating options, and novel delivery technologies. Differentiation stems from patient-friendly design, portability, and stability under varied climates. Partnerships with contract manufacturers and focus on regulatory compliance ensure quality while enabling rapid line extensions.
Constipation Treatment Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
Distribution dynamics shape brand visibility, patient access, and margins across care settings. Strategies blend Hospitals & Clinics for protocol-driven usage, Pharmacies & Drugstores for OTC throughput and counseling, and Online Pharmacies for convenience, auto-refill, and discreet purchasing. Omnichannel execution, inventory availability, and pharmacist education are pivotal to sustaining share and adherence.
Hospitals & Clinics
Hospitals & Clinics influence therapy initiation and transitions of care, especially for patients with complex comorbidities or procedure prep. Vendors engage through formulary access, staff education, and protocol alignment to standardize dosing and minimize complications. Data sharing on outcomes and readmission reduction strengthens institutional partnerships.
Pharmacies & Drugstores
Pharmacies & Drugstores remain the core OTC channel where pharmacist counseling steers product choice and safe use. Assortments prioritize recognizable brands, value packs, and adjacent category bundling with hydration and fiber. In-store education, planogram optimization, and seasonal promotions support conversion and repeat purchases.
Online Pharmacies
Online Pharmacies capture demand for convenience, confidentiality, and home delivery, increasingly complemented by teleconsultation and auto-refill programs. Digital storefronts leverage reviews, symptom checkers, and adherence reminders to improve outcomes. Suppliers optimize direct-to-consumer content, cold-chain where needed, and marketplace analytics for targeted growth.
Constipation Treatment Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Constipation Treatment Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
Rest of the World
North America
North America benefits from high OTC penetration, established clinical guidelines, and strong payer coverage for prescription options in chronic cases. Vendors leverage omnichannel distribution, pharmacist-led education, and data-driven adherence programs. Growth is reinforced by aging demographics, lifestyle factors, and digital health engagement that supports personalized titration.
Europe
Europe features diverse reimbursement landscapes and robust pharmacy counseling cultures that influence brand choice. Harmonized quality standards, emphasis on patient safety, and rising self-care trends support stable demand. Companies compete via evidence communication, multilingual labeling, and sustainability in packaging aligned with regional policies.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific exhibits rapid market expansion driven by urbanization, evolving dietary patterns, and improved healthcare access. The channel mix favors retail pharmacies and e-commerce, with education campaigns addressing stigma and proper use. Local partnerships and price tiers tailored to income diversity help accelerate adoption across emerging markets.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa sees growing awareness and gradual improvements in primary care infrastructure. Market development focuses on affordable formulations, reliable supply chains, and provider training to standardize protocols. Collaborations with public health initiatives and distributors enhance reach in both urban hubs and underserved areas.
Latin America
Latin America combines strong OTC demand with sensitivity to pricing and access. Brands advance through local manufacturing, pharmacy partnerships, and consumer education on hydration and diet alongside medication use. Stabilizing logistics and regulatory clarity support broader assortment availability across brick-and-mortar and online channels.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Constipation Treatment Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers :
- Aging Population
 - Sedentary Lifestyles
 - Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis
 - Technological Advancements
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Regulatory Support and Approvals - The global constipation treatment market is buoyed by robust regulatory support and approvals, which play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of constipation therapeutics. Regulatory agencies worldwide, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and their counterparts in other regions, rigorously evaluate constipation treatment medications for safety, efficacy, and quality before granting approvals for market entry. These regulatory endorsements instill confidence among healthcare professionals, patients, and industry stakeholders regarding the reliability and effectiveness of constipation treatment options. Moreover, regulatory support fosters innovation by incentivizing pharmaceutical companies to invest in research and development efforts aimed at bringing novel constipation therapies to market. Collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies and industry players further streamline the approval process, expediting the availability of new treatment modalities to address unmet medical needs in constipation management. Overall, the robust regulatory framework and approvals serve as a cornerstone for driving advancements and ensuring the quality and safety of constipation treatment options globally.
 
Restraints :
- Side Effects
 - Dependency
 - Limited Efficacy
 - High Costs
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Regulatory Restrictions - The Global Constipation Treatment Market faces regulatory restrictions that impact its growth trajectory. Regulatory authorities play a crucial role in overseeing the safety, efficacy, and quality of constipation treatment medications, imposing stringent guidelines and standards for their approval and commercialization. These regulations aim to safeguard public health and ensure that treatment options meet rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness. However, navigating the regulatory landscape can present challenges for market players, requiring compliance with complex regulatory frameworks and documentation requirements. Additionally, regulatory restrictions may entail lengthy approval processes, limiting the speed at which new treatments can enter the market. Despite these challenges, adherence to regulatory standards is essential for maintaining patient safety and fostering trust in constipation treatment medications. As such, market participants must stay abreast of evolving regulatory requirements and invest in robust regulatory affairs strategies to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
 
Opportunities :
- Increasing Awareness and Education
 - Development of Novel Therapies
 - Expansion of Product Portfolio
 - Focus on Personalized Medicine
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Targeting Specific Patient Populations -The Global Constipation Treatment Market is witnessing a strategic shift towards targeting specific patient populations to address their unique needs and preferences. This targeted approach involves tailoring constipation treatment solutions to address the diverse underlying causes and characteristics of the condition in different patient groups. For instance, there is a growing focus on developing specialized therapies for specific subtypes of constipation, such as chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), and opioid-induced constipation (OIC). By understanding the distinct pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical profiles associated with each subtype, healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies can develop more effective and personalized treatment regimens.
There is an increasing recognition of the importance of patient-centric care in managing constipation. This involves considering factors such as patient age, comorbidities, medication history, lifestyle factors, and treatment preferences when devising treatment plans. For example, pediatric patients may require age-appropriate formulations or dosing regimens, while elderly patients may benefit from simplified treatment regimens or alternative delivery formats. By adopting a patient-centric approach, healthcare providers can enhance treatment adherence, improve clinical outcomes, and enhance patient satisfaction.
There is a growing emphasis on addressing constipation within specific patient populations that may be at higher risk or have unique treatment needs. This includes targeting vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, postoperative patients, individuals with neurological disorders, and those with chronic medical conditions. By developing specialized treatment strategies and interventions tailored to the needs of these populations, healthcare providers can optimize constipation management and improve quality of life.
Targeting specific patient populations represents a promising strategy for advancing constipation treatment approaches, optimizing clinical outcomes, and meeting the evolving needs of diverse patient groups. By leveraging insights from patient-centered research, clinical trials, and real-world data, stakeholders in the constipation treatment market can drive innovation and deliver more personalized and effective care to patients worldwide.
 
Constipation Treatment Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Constipation Treatment Market is characterized by intense competition where leading players emphasize strategies such as collaboration, merger, and partnerships to strengthen their presence. Companies invest in targeted therapies and patient-centric solutions, driving consistent growth across regions. The landscape is shaped by technological advancements and innovation, enabling firms to enhance product portfolios and expand treatment accessibility.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market exhibits moderate concentration, with a few dominant players holding significant percentage shares while smaller firms compete through niche innovations. Strategic collaboration and merger activities have consolidated market positions, ensuring stronger distribution reach. The balance between established leaders and emerging entrants continues to define market competitiveness, highlighting both consolidation and expansion trends in this therapeutic segment.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Key companies focus on differentiated strategies to boost brand positioning, leveraging digital campaigns and expanded distribution networks. Strong partnerships with healthcare providers and pharmacies improve treatment accessibility and patient adherence. By refining brand value through education and awareness initiatives, manufacturers sustain growth and create deeper market penetration across diversified channels, reinforcing competitive advantage.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
R&D investments and technological advancements are central to driving innovation in the market. Companies explore novel formulations, delivery systems, and combination therapies to enhance efficacy and patient convenience. The adoption of AI-enabled platforms, real-time monitoring, and precision-targeted treatment solutions reflects growing innovation momentum, ensuring competitive differentiation and positioning within the evolving therapeutic landscape.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
The market’s expansion is fueled by strong regional demand, supported by healthcare infrastructure improvements and strategic alliances. Leading players focus on localized partnerships and tailored treatment models to meet regional healthcare needs. Competitive momentum is further reinforced through joint ventures and distribution tie-ups, enabling companies to capture incremental percentage shares across high-demand therapeutic zones.
Future Outlook
The market’s future outlook indicates steady percentage-based growth, underpinned by continued investment in strategies such as innovation, partnerships, and technological advancements. Increasing acceptance of advanced treatment methods will drive adoption across regions. Sustained emphasis on collaborative models and patient-focused innovation ensures the competitive landscape will remain dynamic and strategically progressive in the years ahead.
Key players in Constipation Treatment Market include:
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
 - Abbott Laboratories
 - Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
 - Allergan plc (AbbVie Inc.)
 - Pfizer Inc.
 - Sanofi S.A.
 - Bayer AG
 - GlaxoSmithKline plc
 - Novartis AG
 - AstraZeneca plc
 - Ferring Pharmaceuticals
 - Albireo Pharma, Inc.
 - Bausch Health Companies Inc.
 - Salix Pharmaceuticals (Bausch Health)
 - Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
 
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
 - 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 Drug Type
 - Market Snapshot, By Treatment Type
 - Market Snapshot, By Formulation
 - Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
 - Market Snapshot, By Region
 
 - Constipation Treatment Market Dynamics 
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
- Drivers 
- Aging Population
 - Sedentary Lifestyles
 - Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis
 - Technological Advancements
 - Regulatory Support and Approvals
 
 - Restraints 
- Side Effects
 - Dependency
 - Limited Efficacy
 - High Costs
 - Regulatory Restrictions
 
 - Opportunities 
- Increasing Awareness and Education
 - Development of Novel Therapies
 - Expansion of Product Portfolio
 - Focus on Personalized Medicine
 - Targeting Specific Patient Populations
 
 
 - 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
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Competitive Rivalry
 
 
 - Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
 - Market Segmentation 
- Constipation Treatment Market, By Drug Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Laxatives
 - Stool Softeners
 - Lubricants
 - Others
 
 - Constipation Treatment Market, By Treatment Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Oral Medications
 - Enemas
 - Rectal Suppositories
 - Others
 
 - Constipation Treatment Market, By Formulation, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Tablets
 - Liquid
 - Powder
 - Others
 
 - Constipation Treatment Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Hospitals & Clinics
 - Pharmacies & Drugstores
 - Online Pharmacies
 
 - Constipation Treatment Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
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North America
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United States
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Canada
 
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Europe
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Germany
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United Kingdom
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France
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Italy
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Spain
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Nordic
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Benelux
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Rest of Europe
 
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Asia Pacific
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Japan
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China
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India
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Australia & New Zealand
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South Korea
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ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
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Rest of Asia Pacific
 
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Middle East & Africa
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GCC
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Israel
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South Africa
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Rest of Middle East & Africa
 
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Latin America
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Brazil
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Mexico
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Argentina
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Rest of Latin America
 
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 - Constipation Treatment Market, By Drug Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
 - Competitive Landscape 
- Company Profiles 
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
 - Abbott Laboratories
 - Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
 - Allergan plc (AbbVie Inc.)
 - Pfizer Inc.
 - Sanofi S.A.
 - Bayer AG
 - GlaxoSmithKline plc
 - Novartis AG
 - AstraZeneca plc
 - Ferring Pharmaceuticals
 - Albireo Pharma, Inc.
 - Bausch Health Companies Inc.
 - Salix Pharmaceuticals (Bausch Health)
 - Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
 
 
 - Company Profiles 
 - Analyst Views
 - Future Outlook of the Market
 

