OTC Pharmaceuticals - Benelux | Statista Market Forecast

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$2.30bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 3.24% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Cold & Cough Remedies with a market volume of US$482.60m in 2024.
In global comparison, most revenue is generated United States (US$41bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$76.45 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 22.8% of total revenue will be generated through online sales by 2024.

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.
For more information on the data displayed, use the info button next to the boxes.

Natural and synthetic agents
Analgesics (e.g. Asprin, Paracetamol)
Cough & Cold remedies (e.g. Vicks VapoRub)
Vitamins and Minerals
Skin treatment products

Prescription medicines
Homeopathic remedies

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux is experiencing steady growth due to a combination of factors. Customer preferences for self-medication and convenience are driving the demand for over-the-counter products.

The market is also benefiting from favorable macroeconomic conditions and local special circumstances. Customer preferences in Benelux are shifting towards self-medication and a preference for convenience. Consumers are increasingly seeking accessible and affordable healthcare options, and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals provide a convenient solution.

The ease of purchasing these products without a prescription allows consumers to quickly address common health issues without the need for a doctor's visit. Additionally, the availability of a wide range of OTC products caters to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers in the region. The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux is witnessing several trends.

Firstly, there is a growing demand for natural and herbal remedies. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their health and are seeking alternative solutions that are perceived as safer and more sustainable. This trend is driving the growth of herbal and natural OTC products in the market.

Secondly, there is an increasing focus on preventive healthcare. Consumers are becoming proactive in maintaining their health and are turning to OTC products for preventive measures. This includes vitamins, supplements, and other preventive medications that help boost immunity and overall well-being.

Another trend in the market is the rise of e-commerce. Online platforms provide consumers with a convenient and accessible way to purchase OTC products. The ease of comparing prices, reading reviews, and accessing a wide range of products online has contributed to the growth of e-commerce in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux.

Local special circumstances in Benelux also contribute to the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market. The region has a well-developed healthcare system with a high level of accessibility to healthcare services. This, combined with a high level of health literacy among the population, creates a conducive environment for the growth of the OTC market.

Furthermore, the aging population in Benelux is driving the demand for OTC pharmaceuticals. As the population ages, there is an increased need for self-care and management of chronic conditions. OTC products provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for managing these conditions.

Underlying macroeconomic factors, such as stable economic growth and increasing disposable incomes, are also fueling the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux. As consumers have more disposable income, they are willing to spend on healthcare products, including OTC pharmaceuticals. In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux is experiencing steady growth due to customer preferences for self-medication and convenience, as well as favorable macroeconomic conditions and local special circumstances.

The market is witnessing trends such as the demand for natural and preventive healthcare products, the rise of e-commerce, and the aging population. These factors, combined with stable economic growth and increasing disposable incomes, contribute to the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Benelux.

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.

This report presents a comprehensive analysis and additional information on the Consumer market, in a PDF format.

The pharmaceutical industry is responsible for the research, development, production, and distribution of medications. The market has experienced significant growth during the past two decades, and pharma revenues worldwide totaled 1.48 trillion U.S. dollars in 2022.