Sales of over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicines have grown by more than five per cent in the last year, reaching a value of over £116 million, according to Neilson data, with customers increasingly buying into multi-format treatments, such as eye drops and nasal sprays, to achieve targeted relief from allergies such as hayfever.

Sales of tablets and capsules still dominate the market – at over £80 million – however spray and syrup formats have continued to rise year on year, now reaching over £18 million (seven per cent growth) and £9 million (six per cent growth) respectively.

Commenting on these figures, John Smith, PAGB chief executive said: “With experts predicting that the number of people suffering from hayfever is only going to rise in the coming years, allergy products are a good opportunity for pharmacies to grow their sales during the peak season.”

He continued: “Some customers may have always just taken antihistamines to reduce their symptoms, but they could also benefit from a nasal decongestant spray or sodium cromoglicate eye drops to help ease discomfort and provide more targeted hayfever relief.”