Pharmacology Mentor

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs in India: A Comprehensive Overview

Main Takeaway: India lacks a unified regulatory framework for OTC drugs, creating a complex landscape where medications not listed as prescription-only are sold over-the-counter. With 62.3% of urban populations practicing self-medication and an estimated market value of ₹188.6 billion, the CDSCO's upcoming 2025 OTC Drug Regulation represents a significant step toward establishing proper oversight and consumer safety. 1. Current Regulatory Status in India Absence of Unified OTC Framework Unlike Western countries, India currently lacks specific unifying regulations for OTC drugs. The term "OTC" has no legal recognition in Indian law. Instead, the regulatory approach follows a negative definition: drugs are considered OTC unless specifically listed as prescription-only medicines. Existing Drug Classification System Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, medications are categorized into different schedules: ScheduleDescriptionRequirementsSchedule HPrescription drugs"To be sold by retail only on prescription of a registered medical practitioner"Schedule H1Restricted prescription drugsStricter prescription requirementsSchedule XNarcotics and controlled substancesPrescription mandatorySchedule GCaution drugs (antihistamines)"Caution: it is dangerous to take this preparation except under medical supervision"Schedule KHousehold remediesCan be sold in villages with population below 1,000 Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), headed by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), serves as India's primary drug regulatory authority. CDSCO is responsible for: 2. The Upcoming 2025 OTC Drug Regulation Key Regulatory Changes The Over-the-Counter Drug Regulation India 2025 introduces several landmark changes: Schedule O Classification: Official categorization of OTC drugs into a new Schedule O Mandatory Labeling Requirements: Clear dosage instructions, warnings, and QR codes for consumer verification Advertising Restrictions: Ban on TV/radio advertisements for certain categories like antibiotics Online Sale Regulation: Only licensed platforms can sell OTC drugs with proper segregation from prescription medicines Approved OTC Medications Under 2025 Framework Drug CategoryApproved OTC MedicinesPain ReliefParacetamol, IbuprofenCold & FluCetirizine, ChlorpheniramineAntacids & DigestiveRanitidine, Antacid Gel, DigeneSkin CareCalamine lotion, Antifungal creamsVitamins & SupplementsVitamin C, B-complex, Iron tabletsOral RehydrationORS sachets, Electrolyte powders Important Exclusions: Antibiotics, steroids, and habit-forming drugs remain strictly excluded from OTC classification. 3. Popular OTC Brands and Market Leaders Major Indian OTC Brands Pain Relief Medications: Digestive Health: Cold and Respiratory: Market Size and Growth The Indian OTC market is valued at approximately ₹188.6 billion (US$ 2.7 billion) with a 9% CAGR, expected to reach ₹441.1 billion (US$ 6.5 billion). Major market players include: 4. Self-Medication Practices in India Usage Statistics Self-medication prevalence varies significantly across India: Common Reasons for Self-Medication Urban Population Motivations: Most Commonly Self-Treated Conditions: Medication Preferences Most Used OTC Medications: 5. Distribution Channels and Accessibility Traditional Pharmacy Chains Leading Retail Pharmacy Networks: Online Pharmacy Growth The e-pharmacy sector has experienced rapid expansion since 2016, with platforms offering:pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih 6. Traditional Medicine Integration AYUSH System Integration India's unique healthcare landscape includes traditional medicine systems regulated under the Ministry of AYUSH 7. Regulatory Challenges and Future Outlook Current Issues Regulatory Gaps: Safety Concerns: Progressive Regulatory Measures Recent Developments: Behind-the-Counter Medicines The DCC is introducing a "Behind the Counter" category for medicines that don't require prescriptions but must be sold "only under the supervision of a qualified pharmacist". 8. Impact on Healthcare Accessibility Benefits of OTC Availability Risks and Mitigation Strategies Public Health Risks: Proposed Solutions: The evolution of India's OTC drug landscape reflects the country's efforts to balance healthcare accessibility with patient safety. The 2025 regulatory framework represents a crucial step toward establishing international standards while addressing India's unique healthcare challenges and diverse population needs.