SUBANG JAYA, SELANGOR, 18 MAY 2026 – In conjunction with Salonpas® Day, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc. proudly announced that Salonpas® has once again been recognised by Euromonitor International as the world’s No.1 OTC topical analgesic patch brand based on sales, marking its tenth consecutive year holding the title since 2016.
The achievement further strengthens Salonpas®’s position as one of the world’s most trusted pain relief brands, reinforcing nearly a century of commitment towards innovation, mobility, and consumer wellbeing. Euromonitor International also presented Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical with two official certificates during the recognition ceremony, acknowledging both Salonpas®’s global market leadership and Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical’s largest share in the corresponding marketing category for nine consecutive years.
As the brand celebrates this significant milestone, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. is setting its sights on accelerated growth in 2026 through a stronger focus on digital transformation, e-commerce expansion, strategic partnerships, and lifestyle-driven consumer engagement. The company aims to connect more deeply with a younger generation of active, health-conscious, and digitally empowered consumers.
Observed globally on 18 May every year, Salonpas® Day symbolises the brand’s dedication to helping people move comfortably and live actively. The date itself carries a meaningful connection in Japanese culture, where the number “5” is associated with kori (stiffness) and “18” with iyasu (to relieve), together forming the phrase “Kori wo Iyasu,” which translates to “relieving stiffness.”
Originally launched in 1934, Salonpas® now celebrates 92 years of heritage and innovation. Throughout the decades, the brand has continued evolving alongside changing consumer lifestyles while remaining focused on effective pain management and wellness support.
In line with its future-forward direction, Hisamitsu Malaysia also unveiled its first collaboration with PLAYA Racquet Club through the “Salonpas® Day Pickle & Patch” event held at PARC Subang. The collaboration reflects the beginning of a wider initiative aimed at partnering with sports and wellness communities across Malaysia, bringing Salonpas® closer to active lifestyle audiences while positioning the brand as a trusted recovery companion for sports enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike.
Founded in 1847 in Japan, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc. specialises in transdermal patch technology and healthcare solutions. Headquartered in Tosu, Saga Prefecture and Tokyo, the company operates in more than 50 countries globally and is internationally recognised for trusted healthcare brands including Salonpas® and ByeBye-FEVER®.
According to Euromonitor International, the research determining the world’s No.1 OTC topical analgesic patch brand was conducted between March and April annually across thirteen countries and regions representing over 70% of the global topical patch retail market in 2025. The research involved manufacturer and wholesaler interviews, retail store checks, and analysis of patch product sales figures by country and brand to determine market share leadership.
For more information about Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical and its products, visit Hisamitsu Global Official Website.
