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In short: on 23 October 2026 the SFDA register listed 697 valid OTC medicines in Saudi Arabia, made from 207 distinct active ingredients or combinations and spread across 38 therapy groups (WHO ATC level 2, plus entries without a code). That is 7.6% of all validly registered medicines. The five largest groups (R06, N02, M01, A02, R01) hold 49.4% of OTC registrations, and the most registered single ingredient is paracetamol (48 products).
Ask a launch team in Saudi Arabia what the OTC market looks like and you usually get a market value and a growth rate. What you rarely get is the list: which ingredients are registered as OTC medicines, how many products sit on each one, in which forms, and at what price. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority publishes all of that in its drug register. This page turns the OTC part of the register into a category map.
It is built for marketers, so it stays at the level of ingredients and therapy groups. It does not name brands or companies, and it is not medical advice.
What does OTC mean in Saudi Arabia?
In the SFDA register, OTC is a legal status: the medicine may be supplied without a prescription, usually through a pharmacy. The other legal status is prescription-only, which covers 8,510 of the 9,207 valid registrations. The SFDA sets the status product by product, so the same ingredient can be OTC in one strength or pack and prescription-only in another. Pharmacists remain part of the supply, and rules on display, advice and advertising apply on top of the legal status.
Those rules change over time. Treat this page as a description of the register on one date, and check current SFDA rules before you make a decision about a specific product. Our guide to SFDA marketing compliance covers what you may say about an OTC product once it is registered.
How was this OTC list built?
Method
- Source: the SFDA Registered Drug service on the authority's open-data developer portal (developer.sfda.gov.sa), snapshot of 23 October 2026.
- Filters: authorization status Valid and legal status OTC. Withdrawn, suspended and prescription-only products are left out.
- Unit: one register entry, which is one registered product (a trade name in one strength, form and pack). An ingredient count is the number of such products.
- Ingredient: the scientific name as SFDA records it. A combination product is its own entry, so "paracetamol" and "paracetamol, caffeine" are counted separately.
- Grouping: the product's ATC code at level 2 (the WHO therapeutic subgroup, for example R06 antihistamines). Products without an ATC code sit in a "Not coded" row.
- Price: the SFDA public price in SAR at the snapshot date. For each ingredient the tables show the minimum, median and maximum across its registered presentations. These are list prices per pack, not sales-weighted and not shelf prices.
Which OTC categories have the most registered products?
Antihistamines (allergy) (R06) lead with 131 of 697 OTC products (18.8%), followed by analgesics (pain and fever) (N02, 83) and oral anti-inflammatory painkillers (nsaids) (M01, 48). The five largest groups together hold 49.4% of the OTC register. At the other end, 14 groups have five products or fewer and 5 have a single product.
| ATC | Group | OTC products | Share | Ingredient entries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R06 | Antihistamines (allergy) | 131 | 18.8% | 21 |
| N02 | Analgesics (pain and fever) | 83 | 11.9% | 16 |
| M01 | Oral anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) | 48 | 6.9% | 13 |
| A02 | Antacids and acid reducers | 44 | 6.3% | 21 |
| R01 | Nasal preparations | 38 | 5.5% | 9 |
| D01 | Topical antifungals | 34 | 4.9% | 6 |
| S01 | Eye preparations | 32 | 4.6% | 20 |
| A11 | Vitamins | 31 | 4.4% | 22 |
| A06 | Laxatives | 29 | 4.2% | 10 |
| B03 | Iron and anti-anaemia preparations | 29 | 4.2% | 7 |
| D11 | Other dermatologicals (incl. hair loss) | 24 | 3.4% | 3 |
| M02 | Topical pain relief for joints and muscles | 23 | 3.3% | 8 |
| R05 | Cough and cold preparations | 19 | 2.7% | 5 |
| A07 | Antidiarrhoeals and intestinal anti-infectives | 14 | 2.0% | 7 |
| A03 | Antispasmodics | 11 | 1.6% | 4 |
| A12 | Mineral supplements | 9 | 1.3% | 8 |
| D04 | Anti-itch preparations | 9 | 1.3% | 5 |
| G01 | Gynaecological anti-infectives | 9 | 1.3% | 2 |
| N07 | Other nervous system drugs (incl. smoking cessation) | 9 | 1.3% | 2 |
| D07 | Topical corticosteroids | 8 | 1.1% | 3 |
| A01 | Mouth and throat preparations | 7 | 1.0% | 4 |
| A04 | Antiemetics and antinauseants | 7 | 1.0% | 1 |
| R02 | Throat preparations | 7 | 1.0% | 3 |
| P03 | Lice and scabies treatments | 6 | 0.9% | 3 |
| A09 | Digestives and enzymes | 4 | 0.6% | 3 |
| B05 | Blood substitutes and perfusion solutions | 4 | 0.6% | 3 |
| C10 | Lipid modifying agents | 4 | 0.6% | 2 |
| D03 | Wound and ulcer care | 4 | 0.6% | 3 |
| D10 | Anti-acne preparations | 4 | 0.6% | 2 |
| n/a | Not coded | 3 | 0.4% | 3 |
| G03 | Sex hormones and modulators | 3 | 0.4% | 2 |
| V07 | All other non-therapeutic products | 3 | 0.4% | 2 |
| V03 | All other therapeutic products | 2 | 0.3% | 2 |
| C05 | Haemorrhoid and vein preparations | 1 | 0.1% | 1 |
| D02 | Emollients and skin protectives | 1 | 0.1% | 1 |
| D05 | Psoriasis preparations | 1 | 0.1% | 1 |
| D06 | Topical antibiotics and antivirals | 1 | 0.1% | 1 |
| N06 | Psychoanaleptics | 1 | 0.1% | 1 |
"Ingredient entries" counts single ingredients and combinations separately, so a group can have more entries than it has distinct molecules.
Which OTC ingredients are registered most often?
Paracetamol is the most registered OTC ingredient with 48 products, followed by desloratadine (28) and ibuprofen (25). At the other end, 121 of the 230 ingredient entries have a single registered product.
| # | Ingredient | ATC group | OTC products | Public price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paracetamol | N02 Analgesics (pain and fever) | 48 | SAR 2.45 to 172.75 (median 7.18) |
| 2 | Desloratadine | R06 Antihistamines (allergy) | 28 | SAR 5.60 to 34.90 (median 18.85) |
| 3 | Ibuprofen | M01 Oral anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) | 25 | SAR 5.80 to 17.15 (median 7.90) |
| 4 | Loratadine | R06 Antihistamines (allergy) | 23 | SAR 5.90 to 910.00 (median 16.65) |
| 5 | Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride | R06 Antihistamines (allergy) | 19 | SAR 7.60 to 28.50 (median 19.40) |
| 6 | Cetirizine Hydrochloride | R06 Antihistamines (allergy) | 17 | SAR 6.60 to 32.40 (median 11.80) |
| 7 | Minoxidil | D11 Other dermatologicals (incl. hair loss) | 16 | SAR 37.40 to 132.00 (median 61.60) |
| 8 | Xylometazoline Hydrochloride | R01 Nasal preparations | 15 | SAR 5.50 to 16.55 (median 9.65) |
| 9 | Miconazole Nitrate | D01 Topical antifungals | 15 | SAR 5.75 to 25.20 (median 11.35) |
| 10 | Fexofenadine Hydrochloride | R06 Antihistamines (allergy) | 12 | SAR 15.15 to 43.65 (median 27.60) |
Counts are per ingredient within one ATC group. Where the same ingredient is coded to two groups (diclofenac gels, for example, appear under more than one), each group is counted on its own.
OTC medicines in Saudi Arabia by therapy group
One table per group with more than five OTC products, largest first. Each row is one ingredient or combination, with the number of registered OTC products, the dosage forms SFDA records for it, and its public price range.
Antihistamines (allergy) (R06): 131 OTC products
Desloratadine accounts for 28 of the group's 131 products (21.4%), across 21 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 2.55 to SAR 27.60. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
Our reading: The allergy shelf is the most crowded OTC group in the register, and the competition is concentrated in a handful of second-generation antihistamines. A new entrant on one of the leading molecules joins a long list of registered alternatives; the open spaces are more likely in form (liquids for children) or in the less crowded molecules than in another standard tablet.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desloratadine | 28 | Film-coated tablet, Syrup, Tablet | SAR 5.60 to 34.90 (median 18.85) |
| Loratadine | 23 | Tablet, Syrup | SAR 5.90 to 910.00 (median 16.65) |
| Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride | 19 | Film-coated tablet, Oral solution, Syrup | SAR 7.60 to 28.50 (median 19.40) |
| Cetirizine Hydrochloride | 17 | Film-coated tablet, Syrup, Oral solution | SAR 6.60 to 32.40 (median 11.80) |
| Fexofenadine Hydrochloride | 12 | Film-coated tablet, Tablet | SAR 15.15 to 43.65 (median 27.60) |
| Chlorpheniramine Maleate | 8 | Tablet, Syrup | SAR 2.55 to 56.60 (median 6.38) |
| Ketotifen | 4 | Syrup | SAR 18.30 to 24.40 (median 21.55) |
| Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride | 3 | Syrup | SAR 7.15 to 7.70 (median 7.25) |
| Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Loratadine | 3 | Syrup, Tablet | SAR 18.85 to 22.90 (median 21.00) |
| Ammonium Chloride, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride | 2 | Syrup | SAR 4.65 to 8.30 (median 6.48) |
| Sodium Citrate, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride | 2 | Syrup | SAR 5.15 |
| Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride | 1 | Syrup | SAR 2.55 |
| Dimenhydrinate | 1 | Tablet | SAR 9.40 |
| Dimethindene Maleate | 1 | Drops | SAR 14.45 |
| Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, Menthol | 1 | Syrup | SAR 6.00 |
| Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, Sodium Citrate, Ammonium Chloride | 1 | Syrup | SAR 8.30 |
| Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, Sodium Citrate, Menthol | 1 | Syrup | SAR 7.00 |
| Fexofenadine Hydrochloride, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 18.65 |
| Levocitrizine | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 22.80 |
| Oxomemazine | 1 | Syrup | SAR 26.25 |
| Pyridoxine, Meclozine | 1 | Tablet | SAR 10.00 |
Analgesics (pain and fever) (N02): 83 OTC products
Paracetamol accounts for 48 of the group's 83 products (57.8%), across 16 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 6.40 to SAR 19.20. One ingredient carries most of the group.
Our reading: Paracetamol alone makes up most of the analgesic group, which tells you how commoditised plain pain and fever relief is on the register. The rest of the group is combinations (with caffeine, decongestants or antihistamines), which is where products try to stand apart.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | 48 | Tablet, Suppository, Syrup | SAR 2.45 to 172.75 (median 7.18) |
| Acetylsalicylic Acid | 6 | Enteric-coated tablet, Tablet | SAR 3.50 to 30.00 (median 13.28) |
| Paracetamol, Caffeine Citrate | 5 | Tablet, Caplet | SAR 3.85 to 8.70 (median 6.40) |
| Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Chlorpheniramine Maleate | 5 | Tablet, Syrup | SAR 2.90 to 16.05 (median 14.40) |
| Paracetamol, Caffeine | 3 | Film-coated tablet, Tablet | SAR 4.65 to 13.60 (median 6.80) |
| Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride | 3 | Tablet | SAR 10.90 to 13.90 (median 13.60) |
| Caffeine, Paracetamol | 2 | Tablet | SAR 12.80 to 25.60 (median 19.20) |
| Paracetamol, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride | 2 | Caplet, Tablet | SAR 9.30 to 11.60 (median 10.45) |
| Paracetamol, Sodium Bicarbonate | 2 | Film-coated tablet, Tablet | SAR 4.20 to 9.15 (median 6.68) |
| Acetylsalicylic Acid, Ascorbic Acid | 1 | Effervescent tablet | SAR 9.65 |
| Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Paracetamol | 1 | Tablet | SAR 10.00 |
| Paracetamol, Caffeine Citrate, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Chlorpheniramine Maleate | 1 | Tablet | SAR 12.30 |
| Paracetamol, Orphenadrine Citrate | 1 | Tablet | SAR 6.60 |
| Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride | 1 | Tablet | SAR 14.85 |
| Pizotifen | 1 | Coated tablet | SAR 17.70 |
| Sodium Bicarbonate, Paracetamol | 1 | Tablet | SAR 10.05 |
Oral anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) (M01): 48 OTC products
Ibuprofen accounts for 25 of the group's 48 products (52.1%), across 13 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 7.80 to SAR 109.20. One ingredient carries most of the group.
Our reading: Ibuprofen carries most of the oral NSAID group. The group also contains several glucosamine-based joint products, which shows how broadly the register uses this ATC code; anyone sizing the NSAID category should separate the two.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | 25 | Tablet, Film-coated tablet, Oral suspension | SAR 5.80 to 17.15 (median 7.90) |
| Naproxen | 5 | Tablet, Film-coated tablet | SAR 17.20 to 43.35 (median 19.90) |
| Loxoprofen | 4 | Cutaneous patch, Tablet | SAR 30.40 to 151.80 (median 36.23) |
| Ibuprofen, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride | 3 | Tablet, Film-coated tablet | SAR 6.70 to 13.65 (median 9.00) |
| Glucosamine Sulfate | 2 | Powder for oral solution, Film-coated tablet | SAR 62.25 to 92.10 (median 77.17) |
| Glucosamine Sulfate, Collagen Type Ii, Chondroitin, Copper, Ginger Extract, Manganese, Tocopherol, Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Cholecalciferol, Cyanocobalamin, Folic Acid, Selenium Sulfide | 2 | Tablet | SAR 27.30 to 54.60 (median 40.95) |
| Diclofenac Diethylamine | 1 | Gel | SAR 7.80 |
| Diclofenac Sodium | 1 | Gel | SAR 13.45 |
| Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Methylsulfonylmethane, Calcium Fructoborate, Chondroitin, Sodium Hyaluronate | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 109.20 |
| Glucosamine Sulfate, Cholecalciferol, Chondroitin, Copper, Cyanocobalamin, Folic Acid, Ginger Extract, Manganese, Tocopherol, Selenium Sulfide, Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid | 1 | Tablet | SAR 27.30 |
| Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin, Copper, Ginger Extract, Manganese, Tocopherol, Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Cholecalciferol, Cyanocobalamin, Folic Acid, Selenium Sulfide | 1 | Tablet | SAR 54.60 |
| Glucosamine Sulfate, Cod Liver Oil, Fish Collagen | 1 | Tablet | SAR 81.90 |
| Glucosamine Sulfate, Ginkgo Biloba | 1 | Capsule, hard | SAR 26.00 |
Antacids and acid reducers (A02): 44 OTC products
Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide accounts for 6 of the group's 44 products (13.6%), across 21 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 4.70 to SAR 165.50. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
Our reading: Antacids are spread across many small ingredient entries rather than one dominant molecule: classic aluminium and magnesium mixtures, alginate rafts and a few acid reducers. A fragmented group like this tends to be won on shelf presence and pharmacist habit more than on molecule.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide | 6 | Chewable tablet, Oral suspension, Effervescent granules | SAR 4.45 to 9.10 (median 6.90) |
| Sodium Alginate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Calcium Carbonate | 4 | Oral suspension, Chewable tablet | SAR 9.60 to 15.20 (median 13.88) |
| Esomeprazole | 3 | Gastro-resistant tablet, Modified-release capsule | SAR 26.95 to 35.25 (median 28.45) |
| Lansoprazole | 3 | Capsule, hard, Capsule | SAR 13.25 to 22.95 (median 22.95) |
| Sodium Alginate, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Bicarbonate | 3 | Chewable tablet, Oral suspension | SAR 10.55 to 25.10 (median 21.10) |
| Sodium Alginate, Potassium Bicarbonate | 3 | Oral suspension | SAR 15.20 to 30.40 (median 26.70) |
| Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone | 2 | Oral suspension | SAR 5.65 to 9.10 (median 7.38) |
| Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate | 2 | Tablet | SAR 11.15 |
| Esomeprazole Magnesium | 2 | Capsule, hard, Gastro-resistant capsule, hard | SAR 26.95 |
| Magaldrate | 2 | Chewable tablet, Suspension | SAR 4.45 to 4.95 (median 4.70) |
| Magaldrate, Simethicone | 2 | Suspension, Chewable tablet | SAR 4.95 |
| Sodium Bicarbonate, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid Anhydrous | 2 | Effervescent granules | SAR 6.45 |
| Sodium Bicarbonate, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid Anhydrous, Tri Sodium Citrate | 2 | Effervescent granules | SAR 9.75 to 29.25 (median 19.50) |
| Aluminium Hydroxide Dried, Magnesium Hydroxide, Dimethicone | 1 | Suspension | SAR 6.20 |
| Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Oxethazaine | 1 | Suspension | SAR 7.15 |
| Dihydroxyaluminium Sodium Carbonate, Simethicone | 1 | Chewable tablet | SAR 7.00 |
| Esomeprazole Sodium | 1 | Gastro-resistant capsule | SAR 26.95 |
| Famotidine | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 6.45 |
| Magnesium Alginate, Sodium Alginate | 1 | Powder for oral suspension | SAR 14.50 |
| Magnesium Hydroxide, Aluminium Hydroxide Dried | 1 | Chewable tablet | SAR 165.50 |
| Sodium Alginate, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, Calcium Carbonate | 1 | Chewable tablet | SAR 11.80 |
Nasal preparations (R01): 38 OTC products
Xylometazoline Hydrochloride accounts for 15 of the group's 38 products (39.5%), across 9 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 3.85 to SAR 33.60. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
Our reading: Decongestant nasal sprays and drops lead the nasal group, with xylometazoline the most registered. Steroid nasal sprays and oral decongestant combinations make up the rest, so the group mixes very different price points.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xylometazoline Hydrochloride | 15 | Nasal spray, Nasal drops, Nasal spray, solution | SAR 5.50 to 16.55 (median 9.65) |
| Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Triprolidine | 6 | Syrup, Tablet | SAR 2.95 to 8.00 (median 3.85) |
| Fluticasone Propionate | 4 | Nasal spray, Nasal drops, suspension | SAR 18.00 to 26.00 (median 24.70) |
| Oxymetazoline | 4 | Nasal spray, Nasal drops | SAR 4.40 to 25.85 (median 15.60) |
| Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Triprolidine | 3 | Syrup, Tablet | SAR 8.65 to 12.00 (median 10.80) |
| Desloratadine, Pseudoephedrine Sulfate | 2 | Extended-release tablet | SAR 24.60 to 35.00 (median 29.80) |
| Guaifenesin, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Triprolidine | 2 | Syrup | SAR 7.30 |
| Levocabastine | 1 | Nasal spray, suspension | SAR 33.60 |
| Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Loratadine | 1 | Syrup | SAR 17.35 |
Topical antifungals (D01): 34 OTC products
Miconazole Nitrate accounts for 15 of the group's 34 products (44.1%), across 6 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 11.35 to SAR 72.25. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miconazole Nitrate | 15 | Cream, Vaginal cream, Vaginal capsule, soft | SAR 5.75 to 25.20 (median 11.35) |
| Clotrimazole | 8 | Cream, Cutaneous solution, Ear drops | SAR 5.90 to 19.30 (median 12.25) |
| Terbinafine | 6 | Cream, Spray, Cutaneous spray, solution | SAR 10.95 to 43.20 (median 21.32) |
| Amorolfine | 2 | Cutaneous liquid, Solution | SAR 66.40 to 78.10 (median 72.25) |
| Salicylic Acid | 2 | Ointment | SAR 14.80 |
| Ciclopirox Olamine | 1 | Shampoo | SAR 28.85 |
Eye preparations (S01): 32 OTC products
Phenylephrine Hydrochloride accounts for 4 of the group's 32 products (12.5%), across 20 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 3.60 to SAR 54.55. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phenylephrine Hydrochloride | 4 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 9.30 to 60.10 (median 54.55) |
| Sodium Hyaluronate | 4 | Eye drops, eye gel, Ear/eye drops, solution | SAR 28.40 to 46.10 (median 44.62) |
| Hyaluronic Acid | 3 | Eye drops, solution, Eye drops | SAR 14.10 to 25.60 (median 14.10) |
| Antazoline Hydrochloride, Tetrahydrozoline | 2 | Ear drops, solution, Eye drops | SAR 8.60 to 9.00 (median 8.80) |
| Carmellose | 2 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 15.80 |
| Hyaluronic Acid, Ts-Polysaccharide | 2 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 29.85 |
| Ketotifen | 2 | Eye drops | SAR 22.65 to 24.00 (median 23.32) |
| Brimonidine Tartrate | 1 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 38.50 |
| Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 17.20 |
| Cromoglicate Sodium | 1 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 15.05 |
| Cromolyn Sodium | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 10.60 |
| Hyaluronic Acid, Ginko Biloba | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 33.90 |
| Levocabastine | 1 | Eye drops, suspension | SAR 36.00 |
| Menthol, Xylometazoline Hydrochloride | 1 | Nasal spray, solution | SAR 16.55 |
| Oxymetazoline | 1 | Spray | SAR 3.60 |
| Pheniramine, Naphazoline Hydrochloride | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 17.25 |
| Polyethylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 47.80 |
| Polyvinyl Alcohol, Povidone | 1 | Eye drops, solution | SAR 19.00 |
| Sodium Chloride | 1 | Ear/eye/nose drops, solution | SAR 5.70 |
| Sodium Chloride, Hypromellose 2208 (750 Mpa.S) | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 10.70 |
Vitamins (A11): 31 OTC products
Pyridoxine, Thiamine, Cyanocobalamin accounts for 4 of the group's 31 products (12.9%), across 22 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 2.90 to SAR 61.05. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyridoxine, Thiamine, Cyanocobalamin | 4 | Coated tablet, Film-coated tablet | SAR 12.40 to 23.30 (median 17.82) |
| Alpha Tocoferil | 3 | Capsule, Capsule, soft | SAR 36.30 |
| Thiamine, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin | 3 | Film-coated tablet, Coated tablet | SAR 10.00 to 13.45 (median 12.05) |
| Folic Acid | 2 | Tablet | SAR 20.70 |
| Multivitamins | 2 | Film-coated tablet, Syrup | SAR 6.10 to 9.95 (median 8.02) |
| Ascorbic Acid | 1 | Effervescent tablet | SAR 5.10 |
| Beta Carotene, Lutein, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Folic Acid, Calcium Phosphate, Phosphorus, Biotin, Iodine, Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Oxide, Sodium Molybdate, Chromium Chloride Hexahydrate, Potassium Chloride, Vitamin K1, Selenium Sulfide, Nicotinamide, Dl-Alpha Tocoferil Acetate, Ferrous Fumarate, Pantothenic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamine, Cyanocobalamin, Manganese, Copper | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 55.00 |
| Beta Carotene, Lutein, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Folic Acid, Calcium Phosphate, Phosphorus, Iodine, Biotin, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Molybdate, Potassium Chloride, Chromium Chloride Hexahydrate, Vitamin K1, Selenium Sulfide, Nicotinamide, Ferrous Fumarate, Pantothenic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamine, Cyanocobalamin, Manganese, Copper | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 20.40 |
| Biotin | 1 | Tablet | SAR 61.05 |
| Colecalciferol | 1 | Oral drops | SAR 9.30 |
| Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin, Hyaluronic Acid, Methyl Sulfonyl Methane | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 54.60 |
| Dexpanthenol | 1 | Cream | SAR 14.75 |
| Dl-Alpha Tocoferil Acetate | 1 | Capsule | SAR 7.75 |
| Effervescent Base, Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Carbonate | 1 | Effervescent granules | SAR 9.15 |
| Methylcobalamin | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 22.80 |
| Niacinamide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Thiamine, Pyridoxine | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 22.80 |
| Phosphorus, Calcium Phosphate, Magnesium Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Zinc Oxide, Manganese, Copper, Sodium Molybdate, Biotin, Nicotinamide, Ascorbic Acid, Cyanocobalamin, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamine, Tocopherol, Ginseng, Ferrous Fumarate, Magnesium Sulfate, Cholecalciferol, Folic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Phospholipids | 1 | Capsule | SAR 6.20 |
| Pyridoxine | 1 | Tablet | SAR 5.35 |
| Retinol, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3) | 1 | Oral drops | SAR 8.20 |
| Retinol, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Tocopherol, Ascorbic Acid, Thiamine, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Nicotinamide | 1 | Oral drops | SAR 2.90 |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamine, Biotin, Manganese, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Copper, Cyanocobalamin, Nicotinamide, Calcium Pantothenate, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Hydroxide, Phosphate, Calcium Chloride, Retinol, Ferrous Fumarate, Zinc Oxide, Dl-Alpha Tocoferil Acetate | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 39.00 |
| Thiamine | 1 | Tablet | SAR 8.20 |
Laxatives (A06): 29 OTC products
Glycerin accounts for 10 of the group's 29 products (34.5%), across 10 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 6.20 to SAR 60.55. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glycerin | 10 | Suppository | SAR 6.20 to 94.85 (median 60.55) |
| Lactulose | 9 | Syrup, Oral solution, Solution | SAR 7.00 to 24.40 (median 15.25) |
| Bisacodyl | 2 | Suppository, Coated tablet | SAR 7.55 to 14.55 (median 11.05) |
| Phosphate Sodium Monobasic, Sodium Phosphate | 2 | Enema | SAR 15.50 to 16.05 (median 15.78) |
| Magnesium Citrate | 1 | Effervescent powder | SAR 6.20 |
| Monosodium Phosphate, Disodium Phosphate | 1 | Enema | SAR 8.55 |
| Polyethylene Glycol | 1 | Powder for oral solution | SAR 52.95 |
| Polyethylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol | 1 | Eye drops | SAR 31.05 |
| Psyllium Husk | 1 | Granules | SAR 8.65 |
| Sodium Picosulfate | 1 | Oral drops | SAR 14.40 |
Iron and anti-anaemia preparations (B03): 29 OTC products
Folic Acid accounts for 9 of the group's 29 products (31.0%), across 7 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 7.70 to SAR 23.40. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folic Acid | 9 | Tablet | SAR 6.15 to 24.85 (median 9.20) |
| Iron Polymaltose | 8 | Syrup, Chewable tablet, Tablet | SAR 10.45 to 19.30 (median 13.62) |
| Methylcobalamin | 4 | Film-coated tablet, Tablet | SAR 20.75 to 76.00 (median 23.40) |
| Ferrous Sulfate | 3 | Film-coated tablet, Drops | SAR 8.40 to 63.15 (median 15.60) |
| Ferric Hydroxide, Folic Acid | 2 | Tablet, Chewable tablet | SAR 17.45 to 19.40 (median 18.42) |
| Ferrous Sulfate, Folic Acid | 2 | Capsule, Sustained-release tablet | SAR 7.00 to 8.40 (median 7.70) |
| Iron Polymaltose, Folic Acid | 1 | Chewable tablet | SAR 15.70 |
Other dermatologicals (incl. hair loss) (D11): 24 OTC products
Minoxidil accounts for 16 of the group's 24 products (66.7%), across 3 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 8.00 to SAR 61.60. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minoxidil | 16 | Cutaneous solution, Solution, Cutaneous foam | SAR 37.40 to 132.00 (median 61.60) |
| Hydroquinone | 5 | Cream | SAR 15.60 to 27.25 (median 20.80) |
| Diclofenac Sodium | 3 | Cream, Gel | SAR 3.90 to 9.30 (median 8.00) |
Topical pain relief for joints and muscles (M02): 23 OTC products
Diclofenac Diethylamine accounts for 8 of the group's 23 products (34.8%), across 8 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 2.80 to SAR 49.35. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diclofenac Diethylamine | 8 | Gel | SAR 8.70 to 58.50 (median 20.88) |
| Diclofenac Sodium | 8 | Gel, Transdermal patch | SAR 3.50 to 49.35 (median 13.45) |
| Benzydamine Hydrochloride | 2 | Gel | SAR 15.20 to 76.00 (median 45.60) |
| Camphor, Turpentine Oil, Menthol, Eucalyptus Oil | 1 | Ointment | SAR 5.35 |
| Diclofenac Epolamine | 1 | Medicated plaster | SAR 49.35 |
| Diethylamine Salicylate | 1 | Cream | SAR 13.85 |
| Ibuprofen | 1 | Cream | SAR 12.25 |
| Piroxicam | 1 | Gel | SAR 2.80 |
Cough and cold preparations (R05): 19 OTC products
Ambroxol Hydrochloride accounts for 7 of the group's 19 products (36.8%), across 5 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 7.15 to SAR 14.70. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ambroxol Hydrochloride | 7 | Tablet, Syrup, Oral liquid | SAR 7.15 to 34.90 (median 14.70) |
| Bromhexine | 7 | Syrup, Tablet, Oral solution | SAR 6.20 to 11.90 (median 7.60) |
| Acetylcysteine | 2 | Effervescent tablet, Powder for oral solution | SAR 11.40 to 16.55 (median 13.98) |
| Guaifenesin | 2 | Syrup | SAR 6.50 to 7.80 (median 7.15) |
| Ibuprofen, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Chlorpheniramine Maleate | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 12.45 |
Antidiarrhoeals and intestinal anti-infectives (A07): 14 OTC products
Dextrose, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Chloride accounts for 4 of the group's 14 products (28.6%), across 7 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 7.00 to SAR 24.20. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dextrose, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Chloride | 4 | Oral solution, Powder for oral solution | SAR 4.05 to 12.15 (median 9.68) |
| Loperamide | 3 | Tablet, Capsule | SAR 6.45 to 22.35 (median 12.40) |
| Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Tri Sodium Citrate, Dextrose | 3 | Powder for oral solution in sachet | SAR 7.20 to 30.30 (median 9.30) |
| Anhydrous Dextrose, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Chloride | 1 | Oral powder | SAR 24.20 |
| Carbo Ligni Pulv, Sulfur Depuratum, Folium Sennae, Extractum Rhei | 1 | Tablet | SAR 23.45 |
| Kaolin, Pectin | 1 | Suspension | SAR 9.30 |
| Oral Rehydration Salts | 1 | Solution | SAR 7.00 |
Antispasmodics (A03): 11 OTC products
Simethicone accounts for 8 of the group's 11 products (72.7%), across 4 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 10.45 to SAR 158.80. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simethicone | 8 | Chewable tablet, Drops, Oral drops, solution | SAR 6.85 to 15.40 (median 10.45) |
| Hyoscine Butylbromide | 1 | Coated tablet | SAR 158.80 |
| Peppermint Oil | 1 | Capsule | SAR 18.55 |
| Simethicone, Loperamide | 1 | Tablet | SAR 19.30 |
Mineral supplements (A12): 9 OTC products
Calcium Carbonate accounts for 2 of the group's 9 products (22.2%), across 8 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 2.95 to SAR 55.00. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calcium Carbonate | 2 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 25.00 to 30.00 (median 27.50) |
| Calcium Glubionate, Calcium Lactobionate | 1 | Syrup | SAR 7.10 |
| Calcium Lactate Gluconate, Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Carbonate | 1 | Effervescent tablet | SAR 11.65 |
| Copper, Manganese, Cyanocobalamin, Thiamine, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Zinc Oxide, Pantothenic Acid, Ferrous Fumarate, Selenium Sulfide, Chromium Chloride Hexahydrate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Molybdate, Ascorbic Acid, Biotin, Iodine, Phosphorus, Calcium Phosphate, Folic Acid, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3), Lutein, Beta Carotene, Vitamin K1, Nicotinamide | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 55.00 |
| Effervescent Base, Citric Acid Anhydrous, Magnesium Oxide | 1 | Effervescent granules | SAR 2.95 |
| Ferrous Fumarate | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 23.15 |
| Iodine, Selenium Sulfide, Chromium Chloride Hexahydrate, Folic Acid, Calcium Phosphate, Phosphorus, Biotin, Ascorbic Acid, Ferrous Fumarate, Sodium Molybdate, Vitamin K1, Nicotinamide, Dl-Alpha Tocoferil Acetate, Beta Carotene, Copper, Manganese, Magnesium Oxide, Cyanocobalamin, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), Zinc Oxide, Pantothenic Acid, Lutein, Potassium Chloride, Thiamine, Colecalciferol (Vitamin D3) | 1 | Film-coated tablet | SAR 20.40 |
| Potassium Sodium Hydrogen Citrate | 1 | Granules | SAR 52.10 |
Anti-itch preparations (D04): 9 OTC products
Lidocaine Hydrochloride accounts for 4 of the group's 9 products (44.4%), across 5 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 6.05 to SAR 12.30. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lidocaine Hydrochloride | 4 | Gel | SAR 6.00 to 11.00 (median 7.53) |
| Crotamiton | 2 | Cream, Lotion | SAR 7.55 to 11.15 (median 9.35) |
| Dimethindene Maleate | 1 | Gel | SAR 12.30 |
| Dimetindene Maleate | 1 | Gel | SAR 12.00 |
| Menthol, Methyl Salicylate, Camphor, Eucalyptus Oil | 1 | Solution | SAR 6.05 |
Gynaecological anti-infectives (G01): 9 OTC products
Miconazole Nitrate accounts for 6 of the group's 9 products (66.7%), across 2 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 15.70 to SAR 19.48. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miconazole Nitrate | 6 | Suppository, Pessary, Capsule | SAR 12.25 to 23.90 (median 19.48) |
| Clotrimazole | 3 | Tablet, Vaginal cream | SAR 15.65 to 29.20 (median 15.70) |
Other nervous system drugs (incl. smoking cessation) (N07): 9 OTC products
Nicotine accounts for 8 of the group's 9 products (88.9%), across 2 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 60.10 to SAR 65.20. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicotine | 8 | Transdermal patch, Medicated chewing-gum | SAR 28.30 to 66.10 (median 60.10) |
| Nicotine Ditatrate Dihydrate | 1 | Lozenge | SAR 65.20 |
Topical corticosteroids (D07): 8 OTC products
Hydrocortisone Butyrate accounts for 4 of the group's 8 products (50.0%), across 3 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 8.20 to SAR 16.35. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone Butyrate | 4 | Cream, Cutaneous liquid, Ointment | SAR 9.45 to 19.80 (median 11.40) |
| Hydrocortisone Acetate | 3 | Cream, Ointment | SAR 7.15 to 8.20 (median 8.20) |
| Hydrocortisone | 1 | Cream | SAR 16.35 |
Mouth and throat preparations (A01): 7 OTC products
Miconazole Nitrate accounts for 3 of the group's 7 products (42.9%), across 4 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 13.85 to SAR 46.55. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miconazole Nitrate | 3 | Gel, Oral gel | SAR 12.65 to 16.50 (median 14.85) |
| Anthraquinone Glycoside, Salicylic Acid | 2 | Cutaneous solution, Solution | SAR 12.60 to 15.10 (median 13.85) |
| Benzydamine Hydrochloride | 1 | Mouthwash | SAR 15.65 |
| Triamcinolone Acetonide | 1 | Nasal spray | SAR 46.55 |
Antiemetics and antinauseants (A04): 7 OTC products
Hyoscine Butylbromide accounts for 7 of the group's 7 products (100.0%), across 1 ingredient entries. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyoscine Butylbromide | 7 | Tablet, Syrup, Film-coated tablet | SAR 7.40 to 16.25 (median 10.80) |
Throat preparations (R02): 7 OTC products
Benzydamine Hydrochloride, Cetylpyridinium Chloride accounts for 3 of the group's 7 products (42.9%), across 3 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 26.25 to SAR 30.35. No single ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benzydamine Hydrochloride, Cetylpyridinium Chloride | 3 | Lozenge, Solution for spray | SAR 30.35 to 54.50 (median 30.35) |
| Menthol, Benzocaine | 3 | Lozenge | SAR 26.25 |
| Benzydamine Hydrochloride | 1 | Mouthwash | SAR 30.00 |
Lice and scabies treatments (P03): 6 OTC products
Permethrin accounts for 3 of the group's 6 products (50.0%), across 3 ingredient entries. Median public prices by ingredient run from SAR 18.00 to SAR 42.90. One ingredient carries most of the group.
| Ingredient | Products | Common forms | Public price (SAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permethrin | 3 | Cream | SAR 42.90 to 85.80 (median 42.90) |
| Simethicone | 2 | Chewable tablet | SAR 18.80 to 20.50 (median 19.65) |
| Benzyl Benzoate | 1 | Lotion | SAR 18.00 |
Smaller OTC groups (five products or fewer)
14 groups hold 36 OTC products between them. They are listed together here.
| ATC | Group | Products | Ingredients (products) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A09 | Digestives and enzymes | 4 | Citric Acid, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tartaric Acid (2); Citric Acid Anhydrous, Tartaric Acid, Sodium Bicarbonate (1); Magnesium Citrate (1) |
| B05 | Blood substitutes and perfusion solutions | 4 | Amino Acids, Sodium Hyaluronate (2); Dextrose, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Citrate (1); Sodium Chloride (1) |
| C10 | Lipid modifying agents | 4 | Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters (3); Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (1) |
| D03 | Wound and ulcer care | 4 | Dexpanthenol (2); Dexpanthenol, Chlorhexidine (1); Sulfadiazine Silver, Sodium Hyaluronate (1) |
| D10 | Anti-acne preparations | 4 | Benzoyl Peroxide (3); Ichthammol (1) |
| n/a | Not coded | 3 | Ambroxol Hydrochloride (1); Aspirin, Paracetamol, Caffeine (1); Vitamin A Palmitate (1) |
| G03 | Sex hormones and modulators | 3 | Levonorgestrel (2); Ulipristal Acetate (1) |
| V07 | All other non-therapeutic products | 3 | Sterilized Apyrogenic Distilled Water (2); Water (1) |
| V03 | All other therapeutic products | 2 | Ectoine (1); Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid Anhydrous, Sodium Bicarbonate (1) |
| C05 | Haemorrhoid and vein preparations | 1 | Zinc Oxide (1) |
| D02 | Emollients and skin protectives | 1 | White Petrolatum, Mineral Oil (1) |
| D05 | Psoriasis preparations | 1 | Coal Tar, Juniper, Pine (1) |
| D06 | Topical antibiotics and antivirals | 1 | Sulfadiazine Silver (1) |
| N06 | Psychoanaleptics | 1 | Amitriptyline Hydrochloride (1) |
What does the OTC register mean for marketers?
Everything above is a count. What follows is interpretation: our reading of what the counts suggest for brand and launch decisions. Treat it as a starting point for your own analysis, not as a finding of the register.
- Crowded groups are concentrated. 49.4% of OTC registrations sit in five groups, and in several of them one ingredient carries a large share. A launch on paracetamol or desloratadine joins a long list of registered alternatives; a point of difference in form, pack or claim has to be designed in from the start.
- Thin groups are not automatically gaps. 14 groups have five OTC products or fewer. A thin group can mean an unmet need, a category that is mostly sold under other rules (supplements, cosmetics, devices), or a molecule the SFDA keeps on prescription in most presentations. Check which of the three it is before you call it an opportunity.
- Price corridors are visible. The median OTC pack lists at SAR 14.35, and each ingredient table above shows the minimum, median and maximum public price for its registered presentations. A new product priced well outside its ingredient's corridor needs a reason the shopper can see. Our pharmacy trade margin calculator shows what a given public price leaves for the pharmacy and the distributor.
- Form is a lever. The forms column shows where a molecule is registered only as a tablet or only as a syrup. A missing form on a well-known ingredient is often a cleaner opportunity than a new molecule, provided it solves a real shopper problem.
- The register is the start, not the whole market. Registrations measure how many products are allowed on the shelf, not how much any of them sells. Pair this map with sell-out data or pharmacy audits before sizing a category.
What are the limits of this list?
- It shows what SFDA lists. The OTC status and the ATC code are the register's own fields. The register can contain coding inconsistencies: some ingredients appear in unexpected groups (simethicone under lice and scabies treatments, an eye-drop product under laxatives), and 3 entries have no ATC code at all. We report the codes as recorded and do not correct them.
- Some prices stretch far. 2 ingredient entries have a maximum price more than ten times their median. That can reflect a large pack, a different strength or a data error; the median is the safer reference.
- Registration is not availability. A product can be registered and not stocked, or stocked in some regions and chains only. What a shopper finds in a pharmacy differs from the register.
- It is not medical advice. The page lists ingredients and counts. It says nothing about which medicine suits anyone, about dosing or about effectiveness. Ask a pharmacist or a doctor.
- It is a snapshot. The register changes every week. Check the live SFDA register before any decision.
- No brands or companies, by design. Brand and company names are deliberately not listed. For product-level search, use the official SFDA drug register.
How should a marketer use this OTC list?
- Screen a category before you enter it. Find your ingredient's group, count the registered products and note how many sit on your exact molecule. Our OTC launch playbook for Saudi Arabia shows where this check fits.
- Position your price. Read the median and range for your ingredient, then test your planned price against pharmacy and distributor margins and against a first-year budget with the OTC launch budget estimator.
- Look for portfolio gaps. Compare the forms registered for each ingredient with what your portfolio holds. The pharmaceutical marketing mix guide covers how product, price, place and promotion work together once you pick a gap.
- Plan the shelf. Crowded groups are won at the shelf. Our guides to the pharmacy planogram and category management in pharmacy show how to argue for space.
- Read the whole register. For the full picture beyond OTC (prescription medicines, product types, therapy areas and registrations by year), see our Saudi drug registration statistics.
To turn a category screen into a plan, the category review template and the launch plan and readiness workbook both have a place for the register count, the price corridor and the gap you chose.
How should I cite this list?
Suggested citation:
PharmaGrowth analysis of the SFDA drug register (OTC products), data as of 23 October 2026. https://pharmagrowth.co/blog/saudi-otc-medicines-list
You are welcome to reuse the counts with that credit and a link. Quote the date with the number.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many OTC medicines are registered in Saudi Arabia?
On 23 October 2026 the SFDA drug register listed 697 products with a valid authorization and OTC legal status, out of 9,207 validly registered medicines (7.6%). They contain 207 distinct active ingredients or combinations. Each product is one registered presentation, so one brand in two strengths counts twice.
What is the most registered OTC ingredient in Saudi Arabia?
Paracetamol, with 48 valid OTC registrations as a single ingredient, followed by desloratadine (28) and ibuprofen (25). Combinations that contain these ingredients are counted separately.
Which OTC categories have the most products in Saudi Arabia?
Antihistamines (allergy) (R06) lead with 131 products, followed by analgesics (pain and fever) (N02, 83) and oral anti-inflammatory painkillers (nsaids) (M01, 48). The five largest groups hold 49.4% of all OTC registrations.
What does OTC mean in Saudi Arabia?
In the SFDA drug register, OTC is a legal status given to a medicine that can be supplied without a prescription, usually from a pharmacy. The SFDA decides the status product by product, so the same ingredient can be OTC in one strength or pack and prescription-only in another. Check the current SFDA rules and the live register for any specific product.
How much do OTC medicines cost in Saudi Arabia?
The median SFDA public price of a valid OTC pack is SAR 14.35. Prices vary widely by ingredient and pack: the tables on this page give the minimum, median and maximum public price for each ingredient. These are register list prices, not what a pharmacy charges on a given day.
How can I check whether a specific medicine is OTC in Saudi Arabia?
Search the product on the SFDA drug register (the SFDA website or its open-data portal at developer.sfda.gov.sa) and read its legal status field. This page lists ingredients and groups only, so it cannot confirm the status of a particular brand or pack.
Why does this list not show brand or company names?
On purpose. The page is a category map for marketers, so it counts ingredients and therapy groups. Product-level detail, including trade names and marketing authorization holders, is in the official SFDA register, which is the right source for any product decision.
Where does this OTC data come from and how current is it?
From the SFDA Registered Drug service on the authority's open-data developer portal, read on 23 October 2026. PharmaGrowth filters the register to valid OTC products and counts them; no licensed sales data is used. Quote the date with any number you take from this page.
Sources
- Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Registered Drug service, open-data developer portal (developer.sfda.gov.sa), snapshot of 23 October 2026.
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology, ATC classification system, level-2 therapeutic subgroups.
