Portuguese buy more than 16 thousand packages of allergy medications – No

According to the official Drug Authority (Infarmed) data published today, concerning World Allergy Day, 6,127,288 packets of antihistamines were distributed in 2017, the months of January may have the highest rate of antihistamines. the consumption.

Nevertheless, there was a slight decrease in the use of antihistamines last year.

However, between 2010 and 2017, the consumption of antihistamines has almost always increased, the last year analyzed showing only a slight decrease.

According to Infarmed data, between 2010 and 2013, spending on antihistamines decreased and from 2014 began to grow, reaching 31.5 million euros last year.

According to the Medicines Authority, spending growth between 2014 and 2017 is due to the reimbursement of new drugs, the increased use of already reimbursed active substances and the use of drugs. over-the-counter antihistamines.

More than 90% of antihistamines on the Portuguese market are subject to prescription and 77% are reimbursed by the state at 37%.

In terms of regional analysis, the trend of consumption is common to all, but Lisbon and the Tagus Valley are distinguished by higher consumption per thousand inhabitants, while the Center is the one which shows lower consumption per thousand inhabitants.