Market Overview and Growth Projections
The cold and cough treatment segment dominates Mexico’s over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical market, with an expected value of $447 million by 2025. This segment is projected to grow at an annual rate of 3.79% between 2025 and 2030, according to data from Statista, a data analysis and statistics firm.
Increasing Respiratory Illnesses and Self-Care Trends
The growth in Mexico’s cold medicine market is attributed to the rise in respiratory diseases and consumers’ preference for self-care, seeking immediate relief from symptoms. Since August, the incidence of respiratory illnesses has increased by approximately 33% compared to 2024, with over 12 million cases reported so far in 2025, according to Erika Cabrera, Director of Scientific Affairs at Opella Mexico, citing data from the Epidemiological Bulletin of the Ministry of Health.
Climate Conditions Contributing to Respiratory Illness Surge
Cabrera explained that current climate conditions have played a significant role in this increase. “The climatic effect and everything happening today are considerably influencing the resurgence of respiratory diseases,” she added.
Importance of Self-Care and Preventive Measures
Cabrera emphasized the significance of self-care, focusing on strengthening the immune system to prevent respiratory illnesses as winter approaches. Preventive and personal care measures include frequent handwashing, proper hydration, protection against temperature changes, physical activity, balanced nutrition, ventilating indoor spaces, adequate rest, and stress management.
“Simple yet Effective” Self-Care
Cabrera stressed that self-care should be as simple and effective as possible. She agreed that demand for OTC medications to prevent and alleviate respiratory disease symptoms increases during this season.
Opella’s Position in the Global OTC and Supplements Market
Opella is recognized as the third-largest global player in the OTC products and vitamins, minerals, and supplements sector.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is driving the growth in Mexico’s cold medicine market? The primary factors are the rise in respiratory illnesses and consumers’ preference for self-care, seeking immediate relief from symptoms.
- How have climate conditions contributed to the increase in respiratory illnesses? Current climate conditions have significantly influenced the resurgence of respiratory diseases, according to Erika Cabrera.
- What preventive measures are recommended to strengthen the immune system? Measures include frequent handwashing, proper hydration, protection against temperature changes, physical activity, balanced nutrition, ventilating indoor spaces, adequate rest, and stress management.
- What role does Opella play in the global OTC and supplements market? Opella is recognized as the third-largest global player in the OTC products and vitamins, minerals, and supplements sector.
