OTC Pharmaceuticals - India

India

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$7.53bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 8.15% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Vitamins & Minerals with a market volume of US$2.63bn 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$5.22 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 5.7% 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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Analyst Opinion

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India is witnessing significant growth due to various factors such as changing customer preferences, emerging trends, and local special circumstances.

Customer preferences: Customers in India are increasingly opting for over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical products due to their convenience and accessibility. The growing middle-class population and increasing awareness about self-medication have contributed to the rising demand for OTC products. Customers prefer OTC medications for common ailments such as cold, cough, and headache, as they offer quick relief without the need for a doctor's prescription. Furthermore, the affordability of OTC products compared to prescription drugs also makes them a popular choice among customers.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India is the increasing availability of OTC products in modern retail outlets and e-commerce platforms. This trend has made OTC medications more accessible to customers, especially in urban areas. Additionally, there has been a shift towards natural and herbal OTC products, driven by the growing preference for holistic and traditional remedies. This trend is particularly evident in segments such as Ayurvedic and herbal medicines. Moreover, the market is witnessing the introduction of innovative OTC products, such as combination drugs and specialized formulations targeting specific health conditions.

Local special circumstances: India has a unique healthcare landscape characterized by a large population, limited healthcare infrastructure, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. This has led to a significant burden on the healthcare system, resulting in long waiting times and limited access to healthcare services. In such a scenario, OTC medications play a crucial role in providing immediate relief for minor health issues. Additionally, the presence of a robust network of small retail pharmacies across the country further contributes to the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India is also influenced by underlying macroeconomic factors. The country's economic growth, rising disposable incomes, and increasing urbanization have contributed to the expansion of the middle-class population. This demographic segment has become a key consumer base for OTC products. Furthermore, government initiatives such as the promotion of generic drugs and the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have made OTC medications more affordable for the general population. These factors have created a favorable market environment for the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India. In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India is experiencing significant growth driven by changing customer preferences, emerging trends, and local special circumstances. The increasing availability of OTC products, the preference for natural and herbal remedies, and the convenience of self-medication are some of the key factors contributing to the market's development. Additionally, underlying macroeconomic factors such as economic growth and government initiatives have further propelled the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in India.

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.