The OTC Outlook to 2007: Extending revenue streams and product lifecycles after patent expiry

Executive Summary

The impending expiry of the patents covering 18 major prescription drugs has encouraged pharmaceutical companies to look towards the OTC market for revenue protection and lifecycle extension for their major products. Although certain sectors of the OTC market are maturing, growth opportunities do exist in emerging markets, possible product switches and novel indications. As self-medication is more widely adopted and healthcare payers seek to contain costs, the OTC market seems set for significant future growth. The OTC Outlook to 2007, a new management report by Reuters Business Insight, analyses the recent performance of the OTC markets in the US, Japan, Germany, the UK and France. Market data is allied to an evaluation of strategies, trends and growth drivers to forecast future revenue potential in therapeutic and national markets and growth opportunities are identified for all companies throughout OTC sectors.