Global OTC Topical Drugs Market - 2023-2030

Market Overview

The Global OTC Topical Drugs Market reached US$ 46.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to witness lucrative growth by reaching up to US$ 79.0 billion by 2027. The global OTC topical drugs market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

The OTC (Over-the-Counter) topical drugs market refers to the market for non-prescription medications that are applied externally to the skin for various purposes. These products are available without a prescription and are commonly used for the treatment of minor skin conditions, such as rashes, itching, sunburn, acne, and insect bites. They are typically available in the form of creams, gels, lotions, ointments, sprays, and patches.

The increasing clinical trials for novel drugs are driving up demand for global OTC topical drug market trends. Advancements in formulation technologies and product innovation have resulted in the development of new topical OTC drug formulations. For example, transdermal patches, sprays, and gels with improved drug delivery mechanisms and enhanced efficacy have gained popularity.

Market Dynamics

Increasing Consumer Awareness and Self-Care Drives the Growth of the Global OTC Topical Drugs Market

Growing consumer awareness about healthcare and a shift towards self-care have been significant drivers. OTC topical drugs allow individuals to address common health conditions and symptoms without needing a healthcare professional's intervention.

Additionally, there is a high prevalence of self-medication among pregnant women in France. According to the research published in January 2021, titled "Over-the-counter analgesics during pregnancy: a comprehensive review of the global prevalence and offspring safety," there is a very high prevalence of maternal consumption of OTC analgesics globally, which is increasing sharply.

Expansion of E-commerce and Online Sales of Topical OTC Drugs is Boosting the Global OTC Topical Drugs Market Growth

The growth of e-commerce has transformed the retail landscape, including the sales of topical OTC drugs. This trend has accelerated further with the COVID-19 pandemic as online shopping gained even more prominence. E-commerce platforms offer a more extensive product selection compared to physical stores. Consumers can find a variety of OTC topical drugs from different brands and formulations, including specialized products that may not be available in their local stores. This expanded product range allows consumers to find the specific OTC topical drug that suits their needs.

Side Effects Associated with OTC Topical Drugs will Hamper the Growth of the Market

The ingestion of inappropriate doses can lead to side effects and the occurrence of adverse reactions and drug-drug interactions. The specific side effects can vary depending on the active ingredient and the individual's sensitivity or allergic reactions. Certain topical drugs, especially those used for acne treatment or skin conditions, may cause dryness or excessive moisture in the treated area. This can lead to flaking, peeling, or increased oiliness, depending on the formulation and individual response. The side effects of OTC drug abuse which include slurred speech, impaired motor coordination, impaired cognitive abilities.

For instance, during the treatment of dermatophytosis by using anti-fungal topical drugs it can lead to many side effects which include allergic reactions, intensive facial pruritus, nausea and vomiting. Hence, owing to the above factors, the market is expected to hamper over the forecast period.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the global OTC topical drug market. The global supply chains for pharmaceutical products, including OTC topical drugs, have been disrupted due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and disruptions in manufacturing and distribution. This has led to challenges in the availability of certain OTC topical drugs and fluctuations in product supply. The pandemic has shifted the focus of healthcare systems, regulatory bodies, and consumers toward essential healthcare products, including vaccines, therapeutics, and medical devices directly related to COVID-19. This may have diverted attention and resources away from OTC topical drugs for other conditions.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict Analysis

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is estimated to have a moderate impact on the global topical OTC drugs market, owing to the low prevalence and absence of key market players in this region. Regulatory processes and approvals for OTC topical drugs face challenges in conflict-affected regions due to the disruption of government institutions and regulatory authorities.

This hinder the introduction of new products or the registration of existing ones, impacting the market dynamics. However, the impact of the import and export of raw materials is expected to have little influence over the global OTC topical drug market growth over the forecast period.

Segment Analysis

The global OTC topical drug market is segmented based on product type, application type, distribution channel, and region.

OTC Topical Creams in the Product Type Segment Account for 37.3% of the Market Share Owing to Rising Novel Product Launches

OTC topical creams are non-prescription medications that are applied directly to the skin for various purposes. They are available over-the-counter without the need for a prescription and are commonly used for the treatment of minor skin conditions, including rashes, itching, sunburn, insect bites, and mild pain relief.

For instance, on May 15, 2023, the USA-based Calgenex Corp introduced Dermalleve, its new over-the-counter topical drug treatment for psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. The product combines maximum-strength anti-pruritic medicine with natural skin conditioners and emollients to stop the itching, reduce inflammation and support the body's healing process. Dermalleve contains 1% hydrocortisone, the maximum strength OTC anti-pruritic allowed by the US FDA.

On April 19, 2023, Resilia Pharmaceuticals announced the relaunch of Solace Cream to treat the signs and symptoms of eczema. The product, which is now available over-the-counter (OTC), had previously received approval from the Food and Drug Administration under the brand name PruMyx for prescription use. Thus, owing to the above factors, the product type segment is expected to hold the largest market share over the forecast period

Geographical Analysis

North America Accounted for Approximately 39.4% of the Market Share in 2022, Owing to the Increasing Research and Development Activities and Well-Established Healthcare Infrastructure

North America, particularly the United States and Canada, has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, including a robust pharmaceutical industry, advanced research facilities, and a strong regulatory framework. This enables efficient product development, clinical trials, and regulatory approvals for OTC topical drugs.

Skin conditions are prevalent in North America, with a significant portion of the population experiencing issues such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. The increasing prevalence of these conditions drives the demand for OTC topical drugs as consumers seek convenient and cost-effective solutions.

North America has a strong retail infrastructure, with well-established pharmacy chains, drugstores, supermarkets, and convenience stores. These retail channels provide wide distribution networks for OTC topical drugs, making them easily accessible to consumers. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce platforms has further expanded the availability and convenience of purchasing OTC topical drugs online. Thus, from the above factors, the North American region is expected to hold the largest market share over the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include: Merck & Co., Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Bayer AG, Galderma, Sanofi, Taisho Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Novartis AG, Pfizer, and Teva Pharmaceuticals.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global OTC topical drug market segmentation based on the product type, application type, distribution channel, and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of OTC topical market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as Excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The Global OTC Topical Market Report Would Provide Approximately 95 tables, 95 figures, and 180 Pages.

Target Audience 2023

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies