Cough, Cold and Allergy (Hay Fever) Remedies in India

PROSPECTS

Heavily polluted cities lead to strong demand for cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies

Weather conditions and high levels of pollution are key factors in generating demand for cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in India. Indeed, during periods of particularly bad pollution, chemists have been reported to have faced shortages of medicines such as anti-allergy drugs.

Growing demand for herbal/traditional products

Rising consumer concerns about the side effects and potential adverse impact of long-term consumption of OTC medicines is driving up demand for herbal/traditional products across a range of categories. While this trend is a feature of a number of consumer health markets, in India it is supported by the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine.

Negligible sales of paediatric cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies

Sales of paediatric cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies are negligible in India. Parents are not comfortable with the idea of self-medicating their children for coughs and colds, preferring to visit a doctor when their children fall ill.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

P&G reimagines family to help Vicks appeal to younger consumers

Procter & Gamble’s Vicks remained the largest brand in cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies at the end of the review period. The brand’s strength is founded on high levels of consumer recognition and the provision of a wide range of formats and product extensions across most categories.

Expansion of online pharmacies boosting sales, but future uncertain

The expansion of online pharmacies is aiding the development of cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in India. The broader product variety, competitive pricing and convenience associated with internet retailing are encouraging many consumers, especially time-pressed young working consumers, to purchase such products online.

Manufacturers reformulating under established brands

Manufacturers are focusing on revisiting their product formulations, especially in cough remedies, because of the Indian Government’s ban on certain FDCs. While manufacturers are working to develop new formulations, they are generally looking to maintain existing brand names, which have gained consumer recognition and are considered easier for doctors and pharmacists to remember when prescribing or recommending.

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