This paper discusses the OTC (Over the counter) in regard to its origin and development,the classification of OTC in different countries,the relation between sorting administration system and medical care system,the marketing characteristics of OTC etc.

• 本文论述了非处方药（OTC）的由来与发展，世界各国OTC药的分类及OTC分类管理制度与医疗保健体制的关系，OTC的市场特点等。