What you need to know

The OTC analgesic market is stable, posting steady gains since 2013, with similar growth trends expected through 2020. The majority of consumers turn to some form of OTC analgesic to treat pain, with internal analgesics remaining the dominate choice for pain relief, though external analgesics are experiencing rapid growth. Looking forward, consumers’ need for pain treatments is not expected to change, however interest is growing for natural ingredients and alternative formats that are easy-to-consume and take on-the-go.

Definition

This report focuses on the market for internal and external analgesics specifically marketed for pain relief that are available over the counter/without a prescription.

  • OTC internal analgesics are ingestible/oral tablets or liquid taken for the purposes of relieving pain. Feminine pain relievers are also included in this segment. Products within this market typically contain one or more of the following active ingredients:

  • Acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, magnesium salicylate

  • The OTC external analgesics segment consists of rubs (such as topical creams/sprays that alleviate pain) and wraps, with heating and/or cooling properties.

Excluded from this report are:

  • Antihistamines, decongestants, sinus, cough, cold, and flu remedies

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