Analgesic use in Germany: Survey of the years 2008 to 2019

Abstract

Background: There are previously published data on the per capita use of analgesics in Germany, but only to 2005. In the present analysis, data for the years 2008–2019 were evaluated. The use of prescription and nonprescription analgesics was investigated and possible influencing factors were discussed. Materials and methods: The per capita use of prescription and nonprescription analgesics was determined based on data on prescriptions and cash purchases in pharmacies (IMS Pharmascope®, Wiener Neudorf, Austria). Moreover, an evaluation according to active substances was performed for nonprescription drugs. In addition, pharmaceutical manufacturers’ advertising expenditures and changes in distribution channels were analyzed as possible influencing factors. Results: During the observation period 2008–2019, the use of prescription analgesics in Germany increased, while the use of nonprescription analgesics decreased. Single-agent drugs constitute the majority of sales of nonprescription analgesics. The share of combination drugs has decreased in recent years. Conclusion: The use of nonprescription analgesics in Germany decreased between 2008 and 2019. The trend as of 1995, which was observed in a previous investigation, is therefore continuing. External factors, such as the increase in advertising expenses or easier access via mail-order pharmacies, do not appear to influence use.