Analgesics in Canada

PROSPECTS

Topical analgesics driven by ageing yet physically active population

Topical analgesics/anaesthetic continued to deliver strong retail value growth, recording the highest increase for 2018. Strong growth is also expected over the forecast period, driven by an ageing but physically active population.

Growing awareness of health risks of acetaminophen presents challenges

The future outlook for adult analgesics’ growth remains challenged as consumers remain aware of the potential side effects of systemic analgesics. The discussion by Canadian healthcare professionals regarding stricter controls over OTC products containing acetaminophen has not subsided despite Health Canada’s September 2016 introduction of new labelling standards for acetaminophen.

Regulatory changes including OTC labelling requirements may hamper growth

Health Canada’s revised regulations on OTC labelling and a proposed increase in OTC licensing fees (announced in October 2017) continue to challenge players. Health Canada introduced revised OTC labelling requirements in June 2016 featuring a standardised drug facts table on the outer labels of non-prescription drugs, with strict requirements on font size.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Large pharmaceutical companies continue to dominate landscape

Wyeth Consumer Healthcare, McNeil Consumer Healthcare and Bayer retained their positions as the leading three players in analgesics in 2018. The leading brand, Advil by Wyeth Consumer Healthcare, continued to exhibit strength in adult ibuprofen and paediatric ibuprofen.

Private label competition from drugstores challenges brand success

Private label lines from large Canadian drugstore chains Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu Group and Uniprix continues to challenge branded products. Private label offers lower prices while guaranteeing the same ingredients and the same effectiveness.

E-commerce presents opportunity and challenges

Other than London Drugs from Western Canada, the large drugstore chains either do not offer e-commerce operations or have limited e-commerce. For example, Jean Coutu offers online shopping but does not sell OTC drugs online.

Files are delivered directly into your account within a few minutes of purchase.