Over-the-counter sales of drugs in Sweden 1976-1983.

The over-the-counter (OTC) sales of drugs were estimated by subtraction of sales on prescription and to hospitals from total drug sales in Sweden during the period 1976-1983. Increased sales of antitussives and decreased sales of expectorants characterized cough remedies. Making topical nasal decongestants available as OTC drugs immediately resulted in a large and increasing volume of OTC sales. Among analgesics, sales of acetaminophen and acetylsalisylic acid + caffeine combinations increased, while those of other groups decreased. Drugs for disorders of the alimentary tract were second to analgesics in the numbers of packs sold; amongst them antacids and laxatives dominated. Laxative sales decreased due to decreased sales of stimulant preparations. Vitamin C and multivitamin preparations dominated OTC vitamin sales. The sales of topical corticosteroids, only available as OTC drugs during the last quarter of 1983, were substantial. The OTC drug sales statistics reflect patterns of self-medication and may be used to monitor this important part of health care.