January 23rd 2026

By Ailsa Colquhoun

New report pledges ongoing support for medicines reclassification

Over the counter (OTC) medicine suppliers have reaffirmed support for reclassifying 25 medicines over the next five years.

A new report PAGB launches new report highlighting the economic and growth value of the over-the-counter sector calls for more access to self-care by widening the conditions these medicines can be used to treat and/or the available quantity.

The 25 medicines have been agreed by a Reclassification Alliance, a working group made up of government, NHS, clinicians, pharmacists, and industry. The list includes six conditions, including pain management and skin problems, and three indications covering gastro, skin and women’s health.  

MHRA has made clear that it will not consider any applications for medicines that include opioids or antibiotics. 

According to another PAGB report, How naming and umbrella branding of over-the-counter products enables self-selection and self-care for consumers, some 85 per cent of medicine suppliers had products suitable for reclassification. Almost seven in ten (69%) said reclassification is a key growth priority.

The report also notes that more than nine in 10 people in the UK say they feel confident using OTC medicines to manage their symptoms for self-treatable conditions.