The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has initiated investigations into the over-the-counter (OTC) drug market, suspecting that certain market players are engaging in anti-competitive practices that contribute to the high prices of these medications. The investigations focus on the behavior of a pharmaceutical wholesaler, a pharmacy chain operator, and several drug manufacturers.

GVH President Csaba Balázs Rigó emphasized that the aim of these investigations is to protect Hungarian consumers from rising prices and to assess whether the shelf arrangement and product placement regulations are restricting competition. The investigations are particularly concerned with popular OTC pain relievers.

In addition to the ongoing investigation into pharmaceutical wholesalers, the GVH has launched new proceedings regarding the OTC drug market. The authority is examining the practices of Phoenix Pharma Zrt. and BENU Magyarország Zrt., along with three drug manufacturers—SANOFI-AVENTIS Zrt., Opella Healthcare Commercial Kft., and Haleon Hungary Kft.—to determine if they are engaging in anti-competitive behavior by excluding potentially cheaper alternatives from retail sales.

The GVH suspects that in over 100 municipalities where pharmacies linked to Phoenix Pharma and BENU are the only ones present, these companies may hold significant market power. This dominance could lead to higher prices for consumers as they control various aspects of pharmacy operations, including procurement and promotions.

The initiation of these proceedings does not imply that the companies have committed any legal violations; rather, they are aimed at clarifying the facts and proving any alleged infringements. The investigations are expected to last six months, with possible extensions if justified.

According to data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office, the prices of OTC medications have significantly increased between 2020 and 2025, with some popular products seeing price hikes of 40-50%. In response to this, a voluntary price and margin cap has been introduced for 34 high-demand OTC products starting July 2025, which the GVH has welcomed.