The OTC pain relief market in the US has experienced minimal movement. Established players have managed to keep their sales consistent, owing to their robust market presence and customers' loyalty to products that are both effective and trusted.
Covering the US over-the-counter (OTC) pain management market, this report provides a complete analysis of the industry and consumer. What types of pain are most commonly experienced? Which OTC pain management solutions drive interest? Answer these questions and more.
See the Report Scope for an overview of the types of pain management solutions discussed in this report.
While demand for pain relief remains essential, the industry saw a slight decline in 2023. In 2024, predictions indicate a decline for the second year. This is primarily attributable to consumer confidence in the economy, and with this, established brands are likely to remain steady due to long-standing market presence and other factors. Brands can stimulate growth through to 2029 by incorporating natural ingredients, and technology, into pain management solutions.
For parents and younger audiences, pain is more often mental. Contrary to older consumers, these demographics experience stress-related pain and headaches at a greater percentage, making it key to consider the differing needs of those experiencing pain.
Notably, older consumers are more likely to report needing to treat more types of pain, indicating the potential for streamlining pain management solutions.
With the shift toward holistic health among many consumers, topical treatments are gaining in popularity. Offering more natural alternatives means they can be perceived as less intrusive on the body than oral medications. This reflects the growth of topical pain reliever usage where 10% more consumers are using them in 2024 than in 2023.
Pain is a frequent issue for many, with two-thirds experiencing pain once a week. Yet, only a third of pain medication consumers are trying to fix the root of their pain to avoid having to take pain medication in the future. As many consumers treat pain reactively, there is room for brands to look to proactive measures in pain management education and solutions, offering empowerment and control.
Buy the full report for a complete analysis of the US OTC pain management market.
You may also be interested in our Managing Common Illness Report, which offers a wider illness perspective, and a further look at the US OTC industry.
This Report focuses on analgesics and pain management devices that are available over the counter/without a prescription.
For the purposes of this Report, Mintel has segmented the OTC analgesics and pain management devices market as follows:
Electrotherapy devices, such as TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) units, are also covered in this Report, but not included in the market size, forecast, or market breakdown.
Excluded from this Report are:
Health industry expert Lindsay Cameron delivers in-depth insights with this report.
Brands dedicated to enhancing proactive pain management can ignite curiosity in the category, allowing consumers to experience relief both physically and mentally.
Lindsay Cameron
Analyst, Health and Wellness
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