Before the formation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), all the drugs were available to the people without doctor’s prescription. One could just go and buy the drugs over the counter. This created an issue with drug safety and drug abuse. In the year 1951, the Food, Drug And Cosmetic Act (FD&C) made a clear distinction between prescription drugs and over the counter (OTC) drugs for drug safety.
OTC drugs means over the counter drugs that one can buy in the pharmacy without the prescription of the doctor. OTC drugs are taken to relieve mild pains, itches or prevent athlete’s foot or decay of teeth. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decides which drug is safe to be sold as an OTC drug.
Safety of OTC drugs
The OTC drugs have certain risk factors even if they are approved by the FDA. The OTC drugs can interact with other supplements, medications, foods and beverages. Before taking OTC drugs, a pregnant woman or a person having any underlying health condition should consult a doctor. Before giving an OTC drug to a kid, one should consult a pediatrician. There is risk of OTC drugs being abused by teenagers.
Difference between generic and brand names
Medications are available in generic and brand names. The generic forms are cheaper than branded medication. If one wants to take a generic form of medication, it is better to check the ingredients and compare it with the branded form, as sometimes the ingredients may vary in amount. One should consult the pharmacist or doctor if any doubts arise regarding the ingredients
Choosing the right OTC Drugs
When one has to choose an OTC drug suitable for one’s ailment, it is essential to patiently check all the options that are available. Reading the label which gives information regarding the ingredients and symptoms, that are relieved by taking the medication, is important. One should try to pick an OTC drug that is specific to one’s ailment. For example, if one is suffering from only fever, an OTC drug with a combination for fever and cold should not be taken. The dosage to be taken and side effects associated with the OTC drug should be noted. There can drug –drug interactions or food and drug interactions hence one should note what drugs and foods should or should not be taken with the OTC drugs. If a person has high blood pressure, asthma or any other underlying medical condition, he or she should consult the doctor before taking any OTC drug.
Rules to follow while taking OTC drugs
The medication should be taken only after reading the label and clarifying any doubts regarding the OTC drug from the doctor. One should never combine OTC drugs with other prescription medications unless it is confirmed as safe by the doctor. One should always check the expiry date on the medication before taking it. One should never break, crush or chew the capsules or tablets as it may affect the efficacy of the drug. Alcohol must be avoided when taking medications like antihistamines and medications for cough and cold. A nasal decongestant should not be used, if one is taking prescription drugs for depression or heart problem or if the person has underlying medical conditions like thyroid problem, diabetes, prostate problem or thyroid disease.
Warning signs of drug abuse
Teenagers can abuse over the counter drugs .These drugs have dangerous effects when combined with alcohol or other illegal drugs. The warning signs of drug abuse that a parent needs to look out for include
- Disappearance of drugs from the medicine cabinet
- Poor performance in college
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Cough and cold drugs in the room without any illness
- Teenager visiting internet sites that show how to get and abuse drugs
- Change in behavior
- Change in physical appearance
- Going around with friends who also resort to drug abuse
- Irregular eating and sleeping patterns
Further information
As long as one uses OTC drugs wisely, taking all necessary precautions they give beneficial effects. In case of serious side effects with any drug one must consult the doctor immediately. If a parent suspects that their child is abusing drugs then one should get professional help immediately.
