How to Save on Over-the-Counter Medications in 2025

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications make up a significant portion of the household budget for many European families. According to recent studies, the average family spends roughly €200-300 per year on OTC medications. Can you save on this? Absolutely!

1. Compare entire shopping baskets before buying

Medication prices can vary significantly between online pharmacies, but the real savings emerge when you compare the total cost of your shopping basket. For example, a pharmacy offering a popular painkiller for €3.50 may have more expensive other products, while a pharmacy with the same medication at €4.20 may offer lower prices on the rest of your shopping list.

The key is to compare the total basket cost, not individual products. A pharmacy with the lowest price on one medication may have higher prices on other items in your shopping list - and ultimately you'll pay more for the entire order. You'll find the full guide to saving on your whole medicine basket here: The Cheapest Medicine Basket, Not the Cheapest Medicine — How to Save.

2. Choose generic medications

Generic medications contain the same active ingredient as branded medications but cost significantly less. Savings can reach up to 80%. For example, a branded ibuprofen may cost €6, while a generic with the same dose and tablet count costs just €2.

Generic medications undergo the same quality and efficacy testing as branded ones. The price difference mainly comes from the absence of marketing and research costs, which have already been covered by the original manufacturer.

3. Buy larger packs

Larger packs often offer better value per unit. Check the price per tablet or millilitre to compare the real value. For example:

• Pack of 20 tablets: €3.50 (€0.175 per tablet)
• Pack of 50 tablets: €6.50 (€0.130 per tablet)

By buying the larger pack, you save 25% per tablet!

4. Use price comparison platforms

Instead of manually checking prices at dozens of pharmacies, use tools like CheaperForDrug, which automatically compare the total cost of your shopping basket across over 100 online pharmacies. You save not only money but also time.

Comparison platforms show you the total basket cost at each pharmacy, including delivery charges. This way you can be sure you're choosing the cheapest pharmacy for your entire shopping list - not just for individual products.

5. Pay attention to delivery costs

The cheapest medication doesn't always mean the lowest total cost. Factor in delivery charges when comparing offers. Some pharmacies offer free delivery above a certain order value, which can significantly affect the final price.

Example: Pharmacy A offers your basket for €10.50 + €2.30 delivery = €12.80. Pharmacy B offers the same basket for €12.10 with free delivery. Pharmacy B is €0.70 cheaper!

6. Plan your purchases ahead

Buying medications at the last minute often leads to overpaying. By planning purchases ahead, you have time to compare prices and find the best deals. You can also take advantage of promotions and discounts that are often available at online pharmacies.

Summary: Conscious OTC medication shopping can save hundreds of euros per year. The key is comparing total basket costs, choosing generic medications and using comparison platforms that show the cheapest pharmacy for your entire medication list. Remember - every euro saved is a euro you can spend on other important things!