Medicines survey reveals large price differences

A survey on the cost of over-the-counter medicines and personal care goods has revealed major price differences between retailers.

The National Consumer Agency (NCA) found that in some instances the difference in price exceeded 160%.

The NCA surveyed 117 products sold across eight leading pharmacy groups, four independent pharmacies and the four largest supermarkets.

Supermarkets were generally cheaper than pharmacy chains while independent pharmacies perfomed well.

There were huge disparities between the four main supermarkets, Tesco, Dunnes, Superquinn and Supervalu with a price difference of more than 18% between the cheapest and dearest.

On a basket of 25 goods Tesco came out the least expensive, while Superquinn was the most.

The National Consumer Agency says over the counter medicines and personal care goods are expensive elements of the weekly shop and has urged people to check where the best value for money can be found.