OTC Medicines in the United States:

• There are approximately 1,000 active ingredients used in the more than 100,000 OTC products available in the U.S. marketplace today. [CHPA, 2001]
• U.S. retail sales of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in 2004 (excluding Wal-Mart) were $15.1 billion. [ACNielsen, 2005]
• By sales, in 2004 the most popular OTC medicine categories were: cough/cold, pain relievers, toothpastes (with fluoride), and heartburn. [ACNielsen, 2005]
• Using OTC medications to treat common upper respiratory infections saves the U.S. healthcare system and economy $4.75 billion each year. [Northwestern University, 2004]

Consumer Usage of OTC Medicines in the United States:

• 73% of OTC medicines are purchased by women. [ACNielsen Homescan Panel, 2005]
• 77% of Americans report using an OTC medication in the past six months: 82% of women and 71% of men. [Roper Starch Worldwide, 2001]
• Adults 65 years and older consume 33% of all OTC medicines sold in the United States. [American Pharmacists Association, 2000]
• Adults over 65 take, on average, 4.5 prescription drugs and two OTC medications. [American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, 1999]
• Women are more likely than men to look at the Drug Facts medicine label or talk to a pharmacist for information. [Prevention, 2002]

Consumer Safety and OTC Medicines in the United States:

• Consumers have an appreciation for the OTC Drug Facts label where symptoms and dosages are concerned, but less understanding of other important label content such as possible side effects, active ingredients, drug interactions, or other warnings. [CHPA, 2005]
• 61% of consumers are not concerned about experiencing side effects when taking an OTC medicine. [CHPA, 2005]
• 46% of consumers correctly believe the dosage instructions on OTC medications refer to the precise amount of medicine to take. [CHPA, 2005]
• 17% of adults admit they take three or more pills of the same medicine at a single time. [CHPA, 2005]

Updated September 2005