OTC Pharmaceuticals - EU-27

EU-27

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$38.56bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 3.88% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Other OTC Pharmaceuticals with a market volume of US$11.52bn in 2024.
In global comparison, most revenue is generated in the United States (US$41,240m in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$86.16 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 15.9% of total revenue will be generated through online sales by 2024.

Key regions: Worldwide, India, Philippines, United States, Europe

Definition:
The Over-the-Counter Pharmaceuticals market includes non-prescription medications, treatments, and healthcare products that are available directly to consumers without a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. It includes both products which are exclusively sold in pharmacies and products which can be purchased elsewhere such as supermarkets, and online retailers. Sales by hospitals are not included.

Structure:
The market is subdivided into Analgesics, Cold and Cough Remedies, Digestives and Intestinal Remedies, Skin Treatment, Vitamins and Minerals, Hand Sanitizer, Eye care, Sleep aids, Wound care, and Other OTC Pharmaceuticals. The Analgesics market covers non-prescription pain-relief medications which help to relief aches, pains and fevers. Cold & Cough market covers non-prescription remedies aimed at relieving nasal congestion, coughing, sore throat, and related cold discomforts. The Digestives and Intestinal Remedies market encompasses non-prescription products designed to alleviate symptoms related to digestive discomfort and intestinal issues. The Skin Treatment market includes non-prescription medications formulated to address various dermatological concerns such as acne, eczema and dryness. The Vitamins and Minerals market comprises non-prescription dietary supplements containing essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. The Hand sanitizer market covers sanitizing products which are applied on hands to effectively reduce the presence of bacteria and viruses. The Eye Care market covers non-prescription products to address common eye-related discomforts such as dryness, irritation or redness. The Sleep Aids market covers non-prescription products designed to promote relaxation, alleviate insomnia, and improve sleep quality. The Wound Care market includes non-prescription products designed to facilitate wound healing and prevent infection.

Additional information:
OTC Pharmaceuticals comprises revenues, average revenue per capita. Sales channels show online and offline revenue. Revenues include VAT. The market only displays B2C revenues, hence B2B and B2G revenues are not included.
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Market

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Analyst Opinion

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27 has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, driven by changing customer preferences, emerging trends, and local special circumstances.

Customer preferences: In the EU-27 region, customers have shown a growing preference for self-medication and over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical products. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including the convenience and accessibility of OTC products, the increasing awareness and knowledge of consumers about self-care, and the rising healthcare costs. Customers are increasingly seeking affordable and easily accessible remedies for common ailments, such as cough and cold, allergies, and pain relief, which has fueled the demand for OTC pharmaceuticals.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27 is the growing demand for natural and herbal remedies. Customers are becoming more conscious of the ingredients used in pharmaceutical products and are actively seeking natural alternatives. This trend is driven by the increasing focus on health and wellness, as well as the perception that natural remedies are safer and have fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs. As a result, companies in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market are introducing a wide range of natural and herbal products to cater to this growing demand. Another trend in the market is the increasing availability of OTC pharmaceuticals through online platforms. With the rise of e-commerce, customers now have the option to purchase OTC products conveniently from the comfort of their homes. Online platforms offer a wide variety of products, competitive pricing, and convenient delivery options, which have contributed to the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27. This trend is expected to continue as more customers embrace online shopping and seek convenience in their healthcare purchases.

Local special circumstances: The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27 is influenced by local regulations and healthcare systems in each country. Some countries have more liberal regulations that allow a wider range of OTC products to be available to customers, while others have stricter regulations that restrict the availability of certain products. These variations in regulations can impact the market dynamics and the availability of OTC pharmaceuticals in different countries within the EU-27 region.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27 is also influenced by underlying macroeconomic factors. Factors such as population growth, aging demographics, and increasing disposable income levels play a significant role in driving the demand for OTC products. As the population grows and ages, there is a higher prevalence of chronic conditions and a greater need for self-care and preventive healthcare. Additionally, rising disposable income levels enable customers to afford OTC pharmaceuticals and invest in their health and well-being. In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in EU-27 is experiencing growth due to changing customer preferences, emerging trends such as the demand for natural remedies and the availability of OTC products online, as well as local special circumstances and underlying macroeconomic factors. As customers continue to seek convenient and affordable healthcare solutions, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market is poised for further expansion in the EU-27 region.

Methodology

Data coverage:

Data encompasses B2C spend. Figures are based on the OTC Pharmaceuticals market values, representing revenues generated by both product sales which take place exclusively in pharmacies and products which can be purchased elsewhere. Sales by hospitals are not included.

Modeling approach / Market size:

Market sizes are determined by a combined top-down and bottom-up approach, based on a specific rationale for each market market. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use data from national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, and self-medication associations. Next, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as consumer healthcare spending, out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, health system accessibilities, and GDP. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the particular market. For example, forecasts are based on historical developments, current trends, and key market indicators, using advanced statistical methods.

Additional notes:

Data is modeled in US$ using current exchange rates. The market is updated twice per year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is considered at a country-specific level. Whereas this market covers only OTC drugs, the Statista Pharmaceuticals market covers both OTC and prescription drugs.