OTC Pharmaceuticals - Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe

Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market amounts to US$9.97bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 3.81% (CAGR 2024-2029).
The market's largest segment is the segment Other OTC Pharmaceuticals with a market volume of US$2.60bn 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$41.93 are generated in 2024.
In the OTC Pharmaceuticals market, 9.0% 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 Eastern Europe has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. Customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors have all played a role in shaping the development of this market.

Customer preferences in Eastern Europe have been shifting towards self-medication and a preference for over-the-counter (OTC) products. This can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing availability of OTC medications in pharmacies and supermarkets, as well as the convenience and cost-effectiveness of self-treatment. Customers in Eastern Europe are increasingly seeking quick and accessible solutions for common health issues, and OTC medications provide a convenient option for them.

One of the key trends in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Eastern Europe is the growing demand for natural and herbal remedies. Customers in this region have shown a preference for products that are perceived as being more natural and less chemically-based. This trend is driven by a growing awareness of the potential side effects of synthetic drugs and a desire for more holistic approaches to healthcare.

As a result, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly developing and marketing OTC products that are derived from natural sources. Another trend in the market is the increasing availability of OTC medications online. With the rise of e-commerce platforms, customers in Eastern Europe now have the option to purchase OTC medications online and have them delivered to their doorstep.

This trend has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as customers have sought to minimize their visits to physical stores. Online pharmacies and e-commerce platforms have responded to this demand by expanding their product offerings and improving their delivery services. Local special circumstances in Eastern Europe have also influenced the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market.

For example, some countries in the region have implemented regulations that restrict the sale of certain medications without a prescription. This has created opportunities for local manufacturers to develop and market OTC alternatives that comply with these regulations. Additionally, the presence of a large aging population in some Eastern European countries has led to an increased demand for OTC medications that cater to the specific health needs of older adults.

Underlying macroeconomic factors have also played a role in the development of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Eastern Europe. Economic growth in the region has led to an increase in disposable income, allowing customers to spend more on healthcare products, including OTC medications. Furthermore, the expansion of healthcare infrastructure in Eastern Europe has improved access to pharmacies and healthcare services, leading to an increase in the overall demand for OTC products.

In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in Eastern Europe is developing in response to customer preferences, market trends, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors. The shift towards self-medication, the demand for natural remedies, the availability of OTC medications online, and the presence of regulations and an aging population are all shaping the growth of this market. With the continued growth of the Eastern European economy and the increasing focus on self-care and convenience, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in the region is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

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.