OTC Pharmaceuticals - Asia

Asia

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$72.72bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 5.97% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Cold & Cough Remedies with a market volume of US$16.06bn 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$16.00 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 20.7% 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

Region

Region comparison

Currency

Analyst Opinion

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Asia is experiencing significant growth and development, driven by customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors.

Customer preferences: Customers in Asia are increasingly turning to over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals for their healthcare needs. This shift is driven by several factors, including convenience, affordability, and the desire for self-care. OTC medications offer consumers the ability to treat common ailments and minor health issues without the need for a prescription or a visit to a healthcare professional. This convenience factor is particularly appealing in Asia, where access to healthcare services may be limited in certain areas. Additionally, OTC medications are often more affordable than prescription drugs, making them a popular choice for cost-conscious consumers. The desire for self-care is also driving the demand for OTC pharmaceuticals, as individuals take a more proactive approach to managing their health.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Asia is the increasing availability and variety of OTC products. As demand for these products grows, manufacturers are expanding their offerings to cater to a wider range of customer needs. This includes the development of new formulations, such as chewable tablets or liquid medications, as well as the introduction of new product categories, such as herbal remedies or natural supplements. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards online purchasing of OTC medications, with consumers opting for the convenience of home delivery and the ability to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.

Local special circumstances: Asia is a diverse region with unique cultural, regulatory, and healthcare systems in each country. These local special circumstances influence the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in different ways. For example, in countries with a strong traditional medicine culture, there may be a preference for herbal remedies or natural supplements over conventional OTC medications. Additionally, regulatory frameworks vary across the region, with some countries having stricter regulations on the sale and advertising of OTC pharmaceuticals than others. This can impact the availability and marketing of OTC products in different markets.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: Several macroeconomic factors are driving the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Asia. Firstly, rising disposable incomes in many Asian countries have increased consumers' ability to spend on healthcare products, including OTC medications. Secondly, the aging population in Asia is creating a larger customer base for OTC pharmaceuticals, as older individuals often require more frequent access to healthcare products for managing chronic conditions. Finally, increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles are leading to a greater prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues, such as obesity or stress-related disorders, which can be managed with OTC medications. In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Asia is experiencing growth and development due to customer preferences for convenience, affordability, and self-care. The market is characterized by the increasing availability and variety of OTC products, as well as the trend towards online purchasing. Local special circumstances, such as cultural preferences and regulatory frameworks, also influence the market. Underlying macroeconomic factors, including rising disposable incomes, an aging population, and changing lifestyles, further contribute to the growth of the market.

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.