Consumer Demand for Over-The-Counter Drugs in Nigeria: A Microeconomic Analysis

Pelumi Jumoke Olokesusi

doi:10.56201/ijebm.vol.11.no12.2025.pg92.112

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Consumer Demand for Over-The-Counter Drugs in Nigeria: A Microeconomic Analysis

Pelumi Jumoke Olokesusi

Abstract

Using a quantitative methodology and a sample size of 300 respondents, this study investigates the factors influencing consumer demand for over-the-counter (OTC) medications in Nigeria from a microeconomic perspective. Price, income, perceived quality, trust, and substitute preferences were all gathered through the use of a standardized questionnaire. To determine the direction and intensity of the correlations between variables that impact the use of over-the-counter drugs, statistical analyses were performed using regression and correlation tests. The results indicate that the quantity of OTC pharmaceuticals demanded is not significantly influenced by price or income, reflecting the inelastic and necessity-based nature of health-related consumption in Nigeria. Weak but significant associations were also observed with non-price criteria, such as perceived quality, trust in shops, and a desire for less expensive alternatives, indicating that behavioral and informational elements have a modest influence on purchasing decisions.

Keywords

Over-the-Counter DrugsConsumer DemandMicroeconomic AnalysisNigeriaPrice ElasticityHealth EconomicsSelf-MedicationConsumer Behaviour

References

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Consumer Demand for Over-The-Counter Drugs in Nigeria: A Microeconomic Analysis

Abstract

Keywords

References

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