CT And MRI Contrast Agents Market Trends
The global CT and MRI contrast agents market size was estimated at USD 6.22 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.81% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing demand for iodinated contrast media, the rising burden of chronic disorders, and the rising focus of government bodies on improving diagnostic infrastructure are anticipated to support the market growth. Several government authorities are undertaking initiatives to increase access to medical imaging such as CT and MRI.
For instance, in March 2024, data published by the UK government revealed that the Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) program has provided over 7 million diagnostic tests, checks, and scans across England since its launch in July 2021. This initiative is supported by an investment of USD 2.45 billion, marking the most significant financial commitment to CT and MRI capacity in the history of the NHS. Around 155 centres are operational in England, and the government is focused on opening 160 centres by March 2025. This growing focus on expanding diagnostic facilities is expected to drive market growth.
Market Concentration & Characteristics
The CT and MRI contrast agents industry is in a moderate growth stage, driven by the rising prevalence of chronic disorders, growing production capacities, and increasing healthcare investments.
The CT and MRI contrast agents market is experiencing a significant surge in innovation. Key developments include enhanced formulations for safer and more effective agents, using nanotechnology for more precise imaging, and introducing biodegradable agents that minimize environmental impact. For instance, in April 2023, GE HealthCare launched Pixxoscan (gadobutrol), a gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent featuring eco-friendly +PLUSPAK plastic packaging that reduces costs, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances safety.
Application Insights
The neurological disorders segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024. The segment's growth can be attributed to the rising prevalence of neurological disorders and the growing availability of various contrast agents that can be used in neurological disorders such as brain tumors and multiple sclerosis, among others. Several studies have recommended the use of contrast agents during neurological disease diagnosis. For instance, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine in September 2023, the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCA) are recommended in diagnosing individuals suspected of having multiple sclerosis. Thus, such recommendations are anticipated to drive the segment growth over the forecast period.
Route Of Administration Insights
The intravenous segment led the market with a revenue share in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the numerous advantages of intravenous contrast administration and the wide availability of various intravenous contrasts, including ProHance, Elucirem, Eovist, Optiray, and Visipaque. A study published by PubMed Central in March 2024 highlights that, unlike oral contrast, which does not significantly enhance patient management, intravenous iodine contrast media offers clinical benefits without introducing substantial artifacts in imaging or affecting quantification. These advantages over other administration routes are anticipated to drive the growth of the intravenous segment further.
End-use Insights
The hospital segment accounted for the largest market share at 58.98% in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the increasing launches of contrast agents and the rising adoption of these agents by hospitals. For instance, in February 2023, Bracco revealed that the gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) VUEWAY is available for use in hospitals and clinics. In addition, the growing investments in advancing medical imaging in hospital settings are supporting the segment growth.
Regional Insights
North America dominated the global market revenue for CT and MRI contrast agents in 2024. This was driven by the high prevalence of chronic disorders and a robust healthcare infrastructure. The region benefits from significant investments in research and development, which foster continuous innovation in CT and MRI contrast agents. For example, according to data published by the Radiology Society of North America in January 2023, the 2022 Kuo York Chynn Neuroradiology Research Award was presented to the University of Connecticut School of Medicine to study a new MRI contrast agent. This new agent uses a lower gadolinium concentration than existing options but may provide equivalent or superior diagnostic results.
Key CT And MRI Contrast Agents Company Insights
Key players operating in the CT and MRI contrast agents industry are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their market presence and increase the reach of their products. Strategies such as expansion activities, product approvals, and partnerships are playing key roles in propelling market growth.
Key CT And MRI Contrast Agents Companies:
The following are the leading companies in the CT and MRI contrast agents market. These companies collectively hold the largest market share and dictate industry trends.
Bracco Diagnostics Inc.
Guerbet
GE HealthCare
Bayer
Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC
Recent Developments
In January 2025, Bayer reported positive results from the pivotal Phase III QUANTI studies, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of gadoquatrane, an investigational GBCA intended for MRI. These favourable clinical studies are expected to contribute to market growth.
In November 2024, Bracco Diagnostics Inc., announced that its latest FDA-approved MRI agent, VUEWAY (gadopiclenol) injection, has reached one million patient administrations across more than 480 customer sites.
In October 2024, GE HealthCare announced the results of its Phase I clinical trial for manganese-based macrocyclic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent.
