The over-the-counter drug manufacturing companies in nan focus on developing products that consumers can purchase without a prescription. This sector serves various health needs, offering pain relief, allergy management, digestive solutions, and more. The companies typically range from established multinational corporations to local firms catering to specific markets. Notably, advancements in technology and changing consumer preferences towards holistic health have begun influencing product innovation. As trends pivot towards personalized medicine and natural ingredients, these companies are evolving to enhance their offerings in convenient and accessible formats, ensuring a robust presence in the global healthcare market.


This list highlights 21 prominent companies in the over-the-counter drug manufacturing sector, located across various countries. These firms vary in size, with workforces ranging from a couple of hundred to several thousand employees. Founded from the 1930s to the 2000s, they represent diverse specialties, including pharmaceutical innovation, healthcare solutions for animals, and dietary supplements. Locations span Latin America to Europe and Africa, reflecting the global reach of their production and marketing capabilities. Such breadth underscores the competitive landscape driven by both private and family-owned enterprises striving for excellence in quality and service.


Read on to explore the top over the counter drug manufacturing companies.


Top 21 Over The Counter Drug Manufacturing Companies


1. Laboratorios Bagó

  • Website: bago.com.ar
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: General Pacheco, Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Employee distribution: Argentina 70%, Brazil 6%, Ecuador 4%, Other 19%
  • Founded year: 1934
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: laboratorios_bago

Laboratorios Bagó is a private pharmaceutical company based in General Pacheco, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Established in 1934, it specializes in the development and manufacturing of both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The company is dedicated to research and development, striving to create innovative healthcare solutions that cater to healthcare professionals, hospitals, and patients alike. With a workforce of around 1808 employees, Laboratorios Bagó operates in various countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, and Peru, among others. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality and excellence, with a portfolio that includes over 480 products. Their focus on pharmacovigilance and patient education underscores their dedication to improving health outcomes. Laboratorios Bagó has also made significant strides in R&D, holding 148 patents across 28 countries, which highlights their innovative capabilities in the pharmaceutical industry.


2. Polpharma

  • Website: polpharma.pl
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Poland
  • Employee distribution: Poland 92%, Ukraine 2%, Other 6%
  • Founded year: 1935
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: polpharma

Polpharma, founded in 1935, is a private pharmaceutical company based in Poland. With a workforce of over 4,300 employees, it stands as the largest Polish producer of medicines and plays a crucial role in the healthcare sector across Central and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The company focuses on developing safe and effective healthcare solutions, catering to patients, healthcare providers, and hospitals. Polpharma is dedicated to innovation, investing significantly in research and development to create new products, including a variety of over-the-counter medications. Their product portfolio includes not only prescription drugs but also OTC products, dietary supplements, and medical devices. The company operates multiple production facilities and is committed to maintaining high standards of quality and safety in its manufacturing processes.


3. Laboratorios Sanfer

  • Website: sanfer.com.mx
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
  • Employee distribution: Mexico 81%, Colombia 10%, Ecuador 4%, Other 6%
  • Latest funding: $500.0M, August 2019
  • Founded year: 1941
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: sanfer

Laboratorios Sanfer, founded in 1941, is a prominent pharmaceutical company based in Mexico City. The firm specializes in the manufacturing and marketing of innovative health products aimed at both human and animal health. With a workforce of over 9,900 employees, Sanfer operates in multiple countries, including Colombia and Ecuador, and has a significant presence in the Mexican market. The company is committed to improving health outcomes through its extensive portfolio of pharmaceutical solutions, which includes a variety of over-the-counter medications. Sanfer's dedication to quality and innovation is evident in its ongoing efforts to develop effective treatments that meet the needs of healthcare professionals and consumers alike. In 2019, the company secured a substantial funding amount of 500 million, indicating strong investor confidence in its growth potential and operational capabilities.


4. Douglas Pharmaceuticals

  • Website: douglas.co.nz
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
  • Employee distribution: New Zealand 88%, Fiji Islands 10%, Other 2%
  • Founded year: 1967
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: douglas-pharmaceuticals

Douglas Pharmaceuticals, founded in 1967, is a family-owned pharmaceutical company based in Auckland, New Zealand. With a workforce of around 631 employees, the company has established a strong reputation for its commitment to high manufacturing standards and quality products. Douglas Pharmaceuticals specializes in the manufacture and distribution of prescription medicines, nutraceuticals, and consumer healthcare products. They serve healthcare providers, pharmacies, and consumers, aiming to improve health outcomes through innovative solutions. The company operates primarily in New Zealand and Fiji, with a notable export footprint that spans 40 countries worldwide. Their product offerings include a range of over-the-counter medications, which are known for their safety and efficacy. Douglas Pharmaceuticals also engages in contract manufacturing, providing services to other companies in the health sector. Their dedication to quality and customer service has earned them recognition in the industry, making them a significant player in the OTC drug manufacturing sector.


5. Laboratorios Vargas, S.A.


Laboratorios Vargas, S.A. is a family-owned pharmaceutical manufacturer located in Caracas, Venezuela. Founded in 1955, the company has a rich history that traces back to the early 19th century with roots in the pharmacy business. Laboratorios Vargas is dedicated to producing a wide array of medications, including over-the-counter products, which cater to healthcare providers, pharmacies, and consumers. The company emphasizes quality and innovation, maintaining a robust production capacity that allows them to manufacture both their own products and those for third parties. They are certified in Good Manufacturing Practices, ensuring that their products meet high standards of safety and efficacy. With a workforce of around 283 employees, the company is primarily focused on the Venezuelan market, although it also has a presence in Peru. Laboratorios Vargas continues to evolve, aiming to expand its reach and enhance its product offerings in the Latin American pharmaceutical market.


6. Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd

  • Website: emzorpharma.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Employee distribution: Nigeria 98%, Other 2%
  • Latest funding: Other (Debt), $14.1M, July 2022
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: emzor-pharmaceutical-industries-ltd

Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, based in Lagos, Nigeria, is a prominent pharmaceutical manufacturer and distributor. Founded in 1984, the company has grown from a small retail chemist's shop to a significant player in the Nigerian pharmaceutical industry. Emzor produces a wide range of products, including vitamins, antibiotics, and analgesics, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. The company operates ISO and NAFDAC approved manufacturing facilities, ensuring high-quality standards in its production processes. Emzor's commitment to enhancing wellness is evident in its extensive product offerings and its efforts to reach healthcare providers, including pharmacies and hospitals. In July 2022, Emzor secured funding of approximately $14 million, indicating ongoing investment in its operations and growth. The company also engages in corporate social responsibility initiatives, aiming to improve health awareness and combat drug abuse in Nigeria.


7. AC HELCOR Pharmaceutical Company


AC HELCOR Pharmaceutical Company, based in Baia Mare, Romania, has been a significant player in the pharmaceutical industry since its establishment in 1990. The company operates as a private entity with a workforce of approximately 64 employees. AC HELCOR specializes in the manufacturing of both prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as dietary supplements. Their product offerings are designed to meet the needs of healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and consumers, ensuring access to high-quality health products. The company emphasizes innovation and quality, maintaining strict compliance with European manufacturing standards. Their commitment to research and development is evident, as they continuously seek to create modern and accessible treatments. AC HELCOR also engages in social responsibility initiatives, reflecting their dedication to community health and well-being.


8. Farmoquimica S/A

  • Website: fqmgrupo.com.br
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Centro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
  • Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: farmoquimica-s-a

Farmoquimica S/A, founded in 1932, is a private pharmaceutical company based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With a workforce of approximately 1,596 employees, the company specializes in the development and distribution of a wide range of health products, including medications, dietary supplements, and dermatological solutions. Farmoquimica operates through two main business units: FQM CONSUMO, which focuses on OTC medications and dietary supplements, and FQM PRESCRIÇÃO, which deals with prescription medications. The company has a strong commitment to innovation and quality, ensuring that their products meet the needs of healthcare professionals and consumers alike. Their extensive history in the market and dedication to research and development highlight their role as a significant player in the Brazilian pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the OTC segment.


9. Alvogen

  • Website: alvogen.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Montville, New Jersey, United States (USA)
  • Latest funding: Other (Debt), $669.0M, March 2025
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: alvogen

Alvogen is a pharmaceutical company based in Montville, New Jersey, founded in 2009. The company specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of generic medications, injectables, and over-the-counter (OTC) products. Alvogen aims to make high-quality medicines accessible and affordable for healthcare providers, pharmacies, and patients. With a workforce of around 797 employees, the company operates with a strong commitment to quality and innovation. Alvogen has an extensive OTC portfolio that addresses common health concerns, including pain relief, antihistamines, and ointments. Their approach to OTC products focuses on patented technology and clinically proven efficacy, ensuring they meet consumer needs effectively. Alvogen has also secured significant funding, with a reported amount of $669 million in debt funding as of March 2025, which supports their growth and development initiatives in the pharmaceutical sector.


10. Adamed Pharma

  • Website: adamed.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Warsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland
  • Employee distribution: Poland 92%, Spain 3%, Other 5%
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: adamed

Adamed Pharma S.A., founded in 1986 and based in Warsaw, Poland, is a pharmaceutical and biotechnology company dedicated to developing and manufacturing high-quality medicinal products. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, the company has established a significant presence in the industry, focusing on innovative solutions for chronic diseases. Adamed Pharma's product offerings include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, dermocosmetics, and medical devices. The company serves both consumers and healthcare professionals, emphasizing the importance of addressing key medical challenges. Adamed Pharma operates in multiple therapeutic areas and has a robust portfolio of approximately 900 products available in Poland and abroad. Their commitment to quality and safety is evident in their continuous monitoring of product efficacy and safety, ensuring that they meet the needs of patients and healthcare providers alike.


11. Upsa

  • Website: upsa.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Poitou-Charentes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
  • Employee distribution: France 85%, Belgium 3%, Italy 3%, Other 9%
  • Latest funding: $1.6B, December 2018
  • Founded year: 1935
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: upsa-france

Laboratoires UPSA, founded in 1935, is a French pharmaceutical company based in Poitou-Charentes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The company specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of medications, medical devices, and dietary supplements. With a strong commitment to quality, UPSA serves healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and consumers, providing effective solutions for health management. The company operates primarily in France and exports to over 60 countries, showcasing its international reach. UPSA is particularly known for its range of over-the-counter medications that address common health issues, including pain relief, digestive health, and sleep disorders. The company operates one of the largest pharmaceutical production sites in Europe, emphasizing its capacity to meet market demands. UPSA is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and quality, as evidenced by its B Corp certification and rigorous quality control processes. As of the end of 2023, UPSA reported a revenue of approximately 478.5 million euros, reflecting its significant role in the pharmaceutical sector.


12. Laboratorios Liomont

  • Website: liomont.com.mx
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cuauhtemoc, Ciudad De México, Mexico
  • Employee distribution: Mexico 97%, Other 3%
  • Founded year: 1938
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: laboratorios-liomont

Laboratorios Liomont, S.A. de C.V. is a private pharmaceutical company based in Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, founded in 1938 by Martin Lewinberg. The company specializes in developing, producing, and marketing medications that help alleviate human pain. With a workforce of approximately 1,133 employees, Liomont serves both healthcare providers and consumers, offering a wide array of prescription and over-the-counter products. Their commitment to quality is underscored by certifications such as ISO 9001, reflecting their adherence to high standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Liomont has expanded its operations over the years, including the establishment of modern production facilities and a focus on innovation. They also engage in social responsibility initiatives through the Fundación Liomont, which supports health, education, and environmental conservation. This multifaceted approach positions Liomont as a significant player in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the OTC segment.


13. MedQuímica


MedQuímica Indústria Farmacêutica, founded in 1975 and based in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil, is a pharmaceutical company that specializes in the development, production, and distribution of a wide array of medicines and dietary supplements. With a workforce of approximately 531 employees, the company has carved out a significant niche in the Brazilian pharmaceutical market. MedQuímica offers a comprehensive line of products, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, branded generics, hospital medications, generics, and food supplements. In 2015, MedQuímica became part of the Lupin Group, a prominent global pharmaceutical entity, which has further bolstered its capabilities and market presence. The company is dedicated to ensuring high-quality pharmaceutical products and actively engages with customers for feedback and support, demonstrating a commitment to safety and customer service. MedQuímica is certified by Anvisa, reflecting its adherence to stringent manufacturing standards, and it plays a vital role in providing accessible healthcare solutions to millions of people across Brazil.


14. PL Developments

  • Website: pldevelopments.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Westbury, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
  • Latest funding: Other (Debt), $500.0M, October 2024
  • Founded year: 1988
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: pl-developments

PL Developments, based in Westbury, New York, is a family-owned pharmaceutical manufacturer that has been operational since 1988. The company specializes in the development and production of over-the-counter health and beauty products. Their product range includes allergy medications, analgesics, cough and cold remedies, digestive aids, feminine care products, first aid items, personal care solutions, nicotine replacement therapies, and sleep aids. PL Developments serves major retailers and consumers, emphasizing quality and strong partnerships. The company has a robust operational framework that includes product development, manufacturing, packaging, quality assurance, and distribution. Recently, PL Developments secured $500 million in funding, indicating a strategic move to bolster their market position and expand their offerings. With a dedicated workforce of over 500 employees, PL Developments continues to play a significant role in the OTC pharmaceutical sector.


15. USP Zdrowie

  • Website: uspzdrowie.pl
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Warsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland
  • Employee distribution: Poland 99%, Other 1%
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: usp-zdrowie

USP Zdrowie, based in Warsaw, Poland, is a private pharmaceutical company that has been operational since 1991. The company focuses on the development and distribution of over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements, catering primarily to the Polish market. With a workforce of approximately 606 employees, USP Zdrowie has built a reputation for providing trusted health solutions, particularly in pain relief and nutritional support. Their flagship products, including Ibuprom and Apap, are among the top-selling OTC brands in Poland, reflecting their strong consumer recognition and reliability. Recently, USP Zdrowie has expanded its portfolio by acquiring the distribution rights for Hepatil and Magnokal Asparaginian, further solidifying its position in the market. The company is committed to maintaining high-quality standards in its products, which has earned it the trust of consumers, healthcare professionals, and pharmacists alike.


16. HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL GmbH


HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL GmbH, based in Pullach, Bavaria, Germany, is a family-owned pharmaceutical company that has been operational since 1907. The firm specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of health products and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. With a workforce of around 150 employees, HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL is dedicated to enhancing health and well-being through its extensive range of products. The company serves both pharmacies and consumers, ensuring a broad distribution of its offerings. HERMES operates primarily in Germany and Austria, but it also exports its products to approximately 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and South America. The company boasts a portfolio of over 30 successful OTC brands, including well-known names like Biolectra, doc, algovir, and ANTI BRUMM. HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, striving to maintain long-term partnerships with its clients. The company is on a growth trajectory, aiming to break into the top 10 OTC manufacturers in Germany in the near future.


17. Laboratorios Bagó del Perú


Laboratorios Bagó del Perú, founded in 1934, is a private pharmaceutical company based in Miraflores, Lima. With a workforce of over 200 professionals, the company specializes in the development and distribution of medications and health products. They provide a variety of prescription and over-the-counter products, catering to both healthcare professionals and consumers. The company emphasizes quality and innovation, maintaining high standards in their manufacturing processes. They hold 148 patents across more than 28 countries, showcasing their commitment to research and development. Additionally, Laboratorios Bagó del Perú engages in health education initiatives, aiming to inform and empower the community regarding health issues. Their social responsibility efforts further enhance their standing in the industry, making them a notable player in the pharmaceutical sector.


18. Aspen - SSA


Aspen - SSA, known as Beta Healthcare International Ltd, is a prominent pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Nairobi, Kenya. Founded in 1942, the company has established itself as a key player in the production of over-the-counter (OTC) medications and prescription drugs. With a focus on meeting the health needs of consumers and healthcare providers in East and Central Africa, Beta Healthcare operates manufacturing facilities that adhere to strict quality standards. The company has a robust product portfolio that includes well-known OTC brands, which are widely available in pharmacies and supermarkets across the region. In 2012, Beta Healthcare was acquired by Aspen Group, enhancing its operational capabilities and expanding its market presence. The company is dedicated to quality management and compliance, ensuring that its products meet both local and international standards. Through strategic partnerships, Beta Healthcare continues to innovate and introduce new products to the market, solidifying its position in the pharmaceutical industry.


19. UNI-PHARMA Pharmaceutical Laboratories S.A.

  • Website: uni-pharma.gr
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Karellas, Anatoliki Attiki, Greece
  • Employee distribution: Greece 90%, Egypt 5%, Other 4%
  • Founded year: 1963
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: uni-pharma-s.a.

UNI-PHARMA Pharmaceutical Laboratories S.A., founded in 1963, is a private pharmaceutical company based in Karellas, Anatoliki Attiki, Greece. With a workforce of approximately 242 employees, the company specializes in the research, development, production, and distribution of high-quality pharmaceutical products, dietary supplements, and medical technology. UNI-PHARMA serves both healthcare professionals and consumers, emphasizing innovative solutions that enhance health and quality of life. The company has established a significant footprint in the Greek pharmaceutical market, particularly in the over-the-counter segment, where it offers a range of non-prescription medications. UNI-PHARMA is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and quality, operating under strict regulatory standards and investing in advanced production technologies. Their facilities are equipped to produce a variety of dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and injectables, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the market.


20. Aristopharma Ltd.

  • Website: aristopharma.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • Employee distribution: Bangladesh 84%, India 7%, Myanmar 2%, Other 6%
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: aristopharma

Aristopharma Ltd. is a private pharmaceutical company based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, founded in 1986. The company specializes in manufacturing a wide range of medicines, including antiulcerants, antibiotics, and herbal products. With a workforce of over 600 employees, Aristopharma is one of the top ten pharmaceutical companies in Bangladesh. The company operates two manufacturing plants equipped with advanced technology to meet both local and international demands. Aristopharma is dedicated to improving health outcomes by providing quality medicines at affordable prices. Their product portfolio includes a variety of over-the-counter medications, reflecting their commitment to accessible healthcare solutions. The company also emphasizes research and development, ensuring they remain competitive and innovative in the pharmaceutical industry.


21. Hemofarm A.D.

  • Website: hemofarm.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Serbia
  • Employee distribution: Serbia 88%, Bosnia and Herzegovina 7%, Montenegro 3%, Other 2%
  • Latest funding: August 2006
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: hemofarm

Hemofarm A.D., established in 1960 and based in Vršac, Serbia, is a pharmaceutical manufacturer that specializes in both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The company is a key supplier to healthcare providers, pharmacies, and consumers, focusing on delivering quality healthcare products. Hemofarm operates in more than 30 countries and is recognized as the largest exporter of pharmaceuticals from Serbia, accounting for over 60% of the country's pharmaceutical exports. The company produces around 7 billion tablets and capsules annually, showcasing its significant production capacity. Hemofarm is part of the STADA Group, a major global player in the generics market, which further strengthens its position in the industry. The company is dedicated to continuous innovation and sustainable practices, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of patients and healthcare systems.



Over The Counter Drug Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Laboratorios BagóGeneral Pacheco, Buenos Aires, Argentina5001-100001934Private
PolpharmaPoland1001-50001935Private
Laboratorios SanferMexico City, Mexico City, Mexico10001+1941Private Equity
Douglas PharmaceuticalsAuckland, Auckland, New Zealand501-10001967Family Owned
Laboratorios Vargas, S.A.Caracas, Capital, Venezuela1001-50001955Family Owned
Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries LtdLagos, Lagos, Nigeria1001-50001984Private
AC HELCOR Pharmaceutical CompanyBaia Mare, Maramureș, Romania51-2001990Private
Farmoquimica S/ACentro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil1001-50001932Private
AlvogenMontville, New Jersey, United States (USA)1001-50002009Corporate
Adamed PharmaWarsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland1001-50001986Private
UpsaPoitou-Charentes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France1001-50001935Corporate
Laboratorios LiomontCuauhtemoc, Ciudad De México, Mexico1001-50001938Private
MedQuímicaJuiz De Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil501-10001975Corporate
PL DevelopmentsWestbury, New York, United States (USA)1001-50001988Family Owned
USP ZdrowieWarsaw, Masovian Voivodeship, Poland501-10001991Private
HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL GmbHPullach, Bavaria, Germany201-5001907Family Owned
Laboratorios Bagó del PerúMiraflores, Lima, Peru201-5001934Private
Aspen - SSANairobi, Nairobi, Kenya1001-50001942Private
UNI-PHARMA Pharmaceutical Laboratories S.A.Karellas, Anatoliki Attiki, Greece201-5001963Private
Aristopharma Ltd.Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh1001-50001986Private
Hemofarm A.D.Serbia1001-50001960Corporate


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