Abstract

OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION: AN ABUSE

Shindya B.*, Priyanka S., Megha Anna Varghese and Joice Merlin S. D.

Abstract

Over-the-counter drugs is defined as the pharmaceuticals with safe and effective use of the general public without consulting a physician either for diagnosis, prescription, or surveillance of treatment. According to world health organisation, over-the-counter drugs are approved by health authorities to treat symptoms and minor ailments. Billions of health problems are treated annually with non-prescription drugs as primary therapy. Unrestricted availability of over-the-counter drugs is one of the major reason for the misuse of these drugs. Moreover, their inappropriate use in developing countries is high due to inadequate knowledge, lack of experience to medical information. The Food and Drug Administration’s 2002 non-prescription drug advisory committee concluded that labeling is a important factor in promoting the safe and effective use of over-the-counter medicines. The drug facts label must effectively communicate the specific informations required for the safe and effective use of the drug. The review concludes that the required information provided on over-the-drug label in india is usually quite insufficient for the patient for ensuring safe, effective and rational use of over-the-counter drugs. Pharmacist play major role in identifying, solving and preventing drug related problems for achieving patient outcome and quality of life.When pharmacist counsel patients based on over-thecounter product selection and uses, the risks virtually disappear.

Keywords: Over-the-counter drug, medicine, Abuse.