OTC Pharmaceuticals - United States

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$41.24bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 3.65% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Cold & Cough Remedies with a market volume of US$11.19bn 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$120.70 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 35.3% 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 United States is experiencing significant growth and development. Customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors all contribute to this growth.

Customer preferences play a crucial role in the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United States. Consumers are increasingly seeking convenience and self-care options for their healthcare needs. OTC medications provide an accessible and cost-effective solution for common ailments and minor health issues.

With a busy lifestyle and limited time for doctor visits, many consumers are turning to OTC medications for quick relief. Additionally, the growing aging population in the United States is driving demand for OTC medications that address age-related health concerns. Several trends are shaping the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United States.

One key trend is the increasing availability of OTC medications in various retail channels. Pharmacies, supermarkets, and online platforms are expanding their product offerings to meet consumer demand. This trend is driven by the convenience and accessibility of OTC medications, allowing consumers to easily purchase them alongside their regular shopping.

Another trend is the rise of private label OTC medications. Retailers are launching their own brands of OTC medications, offering consumers more affordable options without compromising on quality. This trend is particularly popular among price-conscious consumers.

Local special circumstances also contribute to the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United States. The country has a well-established healthcare system with a strong emphasis on self-care and consumer empowerment. This cultural mindset encourages consumers to take control of their health and seek OTC medications for minor ailments.

Additionally, the United States has a robust regulatory framework for OTC medications, ensuring safety and efficacy. This regulatory environment instills confidence in consumers and encourages them to choose OTC medications over prescription alternatives. Underlying macroeconomic factors further support the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United States.

The country has a high disposable income and strong consumer purchasing power. This enables consumers to afford OTC medications and drives demand for these products. Additionally, the United States has a well-developed retail infrastructure, with a wide range of distribution channels.

This infrastructure facilitates the availability and accessibility of OTC medications to consumers across the country. In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United States is experiencing significant growth and development due to customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors. The increasing demand for convenience and self-care options, the availability of OTC medications in various retail channels, the rise of private label brands, the cultural emphasis on self-care, the robust regulatory framework, the high disposable income, and the well-developed retail infrastructure all contribute to the growth of this market.

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 global pharmaceutical industry has experienced significant growth during the past two decades, with revenues totaling around 1.6 trillion U.S. dollars in 2023. With growth like that, the industry's size is now comparable to the gross domestic products (GDPs) of countries like Spain, Mexico, or Australia.