The India over the counter (OTC) drugs market was valued at USD 2.09 Billion in 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.50%, reaching USD 3.57 Billion by 2035. The market growth is driven by increasing self-medication practices, wider retail and e-commerce penetration, and rising consumer awareness of preventive healthcare. Growing demand for affordable, easily accessible medications for minor ailments and supportive government initiatives are expected to accelerate expansion in the forecast period.
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Historical Period
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According to Dr. Sayujya S. Ghosh et al., 2024, 20%–30% of India’s population suffers from at least one allergic condition, with allergic rhinitis cases rising, which is driving demand for OTC drugs.
In June 2024, Dr. Reddy’s announced the acquisition of Haleon’s global Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) portfolio, including Nicotinell, Nicabate, Habitrol, and Thrive. This strategic move is expected to strengthen India’s OTC market and drive significant growth.
The market is witnessing robust growth, driven by rising self-medication trends, increasing consumer awareness, easy product accessibility, expanding retail networks, and a growing prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
5.5%
Value in USD Billion
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs have become an integral part of healthcare in India, providing quick and convenient relief for everyday health issues while reducing pressure on formal healthcare systems. Increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and greater consumer awareness are supporting demand growth. Strong government initiatives promoting self-care and the expansion of pharmacy networks also contribute to market expansion. The market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.50% during the forecast period of 2026-2035, highlighting India’s growing preference for OTC drug use.
Rising Prevalence of Respiratory Disorders to Drive the Market Growth
The increasing prevalence of respiratory disorders is a key driver of growth in the market. Arundhati Garud et al. 2024, reported that India alone has approximately 33 million asthma patients and 55 million individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, representing over 10% of the global burden of these conditions. This growing patient population has led to heightened demand for accessible, non-prescription treatments, including bronchodilators, anti-allergy medications, and symptomatic relief products. Consequently, the market is expected to expand steadily, fueled by rising health awareness and self-medication trends.
The market is witnessing several trends, including strategic acquisitions and government-driven innovation.
Strategic Acquisitions to Elevate the OTC Drug Portfolio Expansion
The market is witnessing a trend toward strategic acquisitions that is increasingly shaping the OTC drugs market, enabling companies to expand product portfolios and strengthen market leadership. For instance, in October 2024, Mankind Pharma completed a landmark acquisition of Bharat Serums and Vaccines (BSV), enhancing its portfolio in women’s health, fertility, and critical care segments while leveraging advanced R&D capabilities. This move exemplifies how acquisitions allow firms to access high-entry-barrier products, optimize commercial operations, and scale niche offerings effectively. Such strategic consolidation is expected to continue boosting market growth and competitiveness in the OTC segment.
Government-Backed Initiatives to Boost the India Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs Market Value
Increasing research and development (R&D) and innovation is a significant trend shaping the market. With a highly diversified product portfolio encompassing generic drugs, bulk drugs, OTC drugs, vaccines, biosimilars, and biologics, the Indian pharmaceutical industry maintains a strong presence. In December 2024, the Department of Pharmaceuticals highlighted initiatives such as national policies and dedicated research institutes to promote innovation and advanced drug development. These measures are fostering new formulations and improving product quality, supporting sustained growth in the OTC drugs market.
Infectious Diseases to Lead the Segmentation by Disease Type
Various disease types in the market are infectious diseases, respiratory diseases, women’s health, dermatological diseases, eye conditions, allergies, and others. Each segment addresses specific therapeutic needs and patient populations. Among these, the infectious diseases segment is expected to lead the market, supported by the rising prevalence of bacterial and viral infections. For instance, according to the Press Information Bureau of India, the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) recorded its highest-ever case notifications, reporting 25.5 lakh TB cases in 2023 and 26.07 lakh cases in 2024. Such rising cases demand increasing awareness about early treatment and improved access to medicines, which further strengthens demand and makes this segment the dominant contributor in the market.
The key features of the market report comprise clinical trials analysis, patent analysis, funding and investment analysis, and strategic initiatives by the leading players. The major companies in the market are as follows:
Novartis AG, through its Sandoz division, plays a vital role in the market by providing essential medicines for respiratory, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory conditions. Its trusted OTC portfolio strengthens the availability of affordable treatments, supporting the growing trend of self-care and accessible healthcare solutions.
Pfizer, Inc. is a leading player in the market, offering science-based self-care solutions through well-known brands such as Advil, Centrum, Robitussin, and Emergen-C. These products, support pain relief, immunity, and general wellness. With its strong consumer healthcare portfolio, Pfizer contributes to the growth of the OTC segment in India, enabling accessible healthcare solutions.
Johnson & Johnson has been a significant player in the OTC drugs market through trusted consumer health products. Its recognized brands, including Imodium®, the leading OTC anti-diarrheal, and Listerine®, the world’s top daily mouthwash, have been widely available. These products strengthened the company’s consumer healthcare presence and supported growing self-care trends in India.
Merck & Co., Inc., a leading global healthcare company, has played a notable role in the OTC drugs segment through its consumer care division. Although its product Oxytrol® for women was introduced primarily in the United States, the company’s expertise in prescription-to-OTC switches and its established portfolio, including popular consumer health brands, highlighted its broader commitment to advancing access to self-care solutions across markets, including India’s evolving OTC landscape.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Other key players in the market include F. Hoffmann La Roche, Sanofi SA, AbbVie Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, GSK plc, and AstraZeneca plc.
The market report offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Drug Type
Market Breakup by Product Type
Market Breakup by Disease Type
Market Breakup by Route of Administration
Market Breakup by Age Group
Market Breakup by Distribution Channel
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*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Drug Type |
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| Breakup by Product Type |
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| Breakup by Disease Type |
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| Breakup by Route of Administration |
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| Breakup by Age Group |
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| Breakup by Distribution Channel |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Supplier Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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