CHPA Underscores Value of OTC Medicines at FDA Public Meeting

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) issued the below statement today following remarks by CHPA Senior Vice President of Legal, Policy & Government Affairs David Spangler during a panel convened by the Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy, "Opportunities to Improve Public Health with Nonprescription Treatments," held as part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) public meeting on increasing access to nonprescription drugs.

"OTC medicines are a cornerstone of self-care, enabling millions of Americans to safely and effectively manage common conditions without a prescription," said Spangler. "They deliver value across access, affordability, and empowerment by removing friction, reducing layers, steps, and delays so Americans can access timely options."

"As demand for care continues to outpace provider capacity-with nearly one in five Americans living in a primary care shortage area-OTC medicines are an important part of scalable, efficient solutions," Spangler added.

Background:

This hybrid public meeting, convened by the Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy under a cooperative agreement with the FDA, brought together drug developers, healthcare providers, patient and consumer representatives, and other stakeholders to discuss opportunities to increase access to nonprescription drugs.

OTC medicines are a cornerstone of self-care in the U.S. healthcare system, enabling millions of Americans to safely and effectively manage common conditions without a prescription or provider visit. By offering immediate access to treatment, OTC options help reduce delays in care, lower costs, and alleviate pressure on an already strained healthcare system.

These benefits are particularly important as demand for care continues to outpace provider capacity-nearly one in five Americans live in a primary care shortage area-and as many consumers face high out-of-pocket costs due to lack of coverage or high-deductible health plans.

As more medicines become available over-the-counter, OTC access plays an increasingly important role in improving public health outcomes by expanding access, reducing system friction, and preserving clinical resources for higher-acuity care.

For more information on the value of OTC medicines, view CHPA's fact sheet: Less Friction. More Care.

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), founded in 1881, is the national trade association representing the leading manufacturers and marketers of consumer healthcare products, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, dietary supplements, and OTC medical devices. CHPA is committed to empowering self-care by ensuring that Americans have access to products they can count on to be reliable, affordable, and convenient, while also delivering new and better ways to get and stay healthy. Visit www.chpa.org.