Hungarian study shows high demand for OTC medicine home delivery

A national representative study commissioned by the pharmaceutical company Opella reveals that nearly half of Hungarians would try home delivery services for over-the-counter (OTC) medicines if they were widely available. Furthermore, 72 percent of respondents believe such a service would improve access to healthcare.

The research highlights the growing role of digital channels in health self-care. Approximately 33 percent of Hungarians turn to health websites or blogs, 27 percent use online search engines, and 26 percent utilize social media for health information. Despite this digital shift, healthcare professionals remain highly trusted; about two-thirds of respondents consult doctors or pharmacists, and 55 percent view them as the primary source for healthy lifestyle advice.

Under current Hungarian law, the delivery of both prescription and OTC medicines via traditional courier services or commercial external delivery providers is prohibited. Deliveries can only be performed by the authorized professional staff of a pharmacy entitled to direct retail pharmaceutical supply. While online ordering for OTC medicines is possible, items must typically be collected in person at a pharmacy. Currently, 44 percent of Hungarians are aware of the online ordering option, and one-third of those have used it.