OTC drugs - what are they, and are they safe?
What are OTC Drugs?
Over the counter drugs, known as OTC drugs or non-prescription drugs are those sold in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription. OTC drugs are mainly used to treat symptoms of common illness by relieving pain, itches and aches. The most commonly used OTC drugs are aspirin and acetaminophen (known as Panadol in the Middle East) . These drugs are not made for treating serious illness. These drugs may be creams, lotions, tablets or suppositories.
Are OTC Drugs Safe?
Although OTC drugs can be taken without a prescription, it does not mean they are free of risks. These medications may interact with certain foods or drinks, supplements and sometimes even other medications. Therefore, it is important to read the leaflet which comes with the drug. Combining more than one drug or not using it as directed may lead to serious harm. Pregnant women should take particular care to consult their healthcare provider before taking any OTC drugs. And as with other drugs they must be kept away from reach of children.
Most commonly known OTC drugs as mentioned earlier are aspirin and acetaminophen, however, there are more than 100 000 OTC drugs available in pharmacies worldwide. (OTC Drugs A-z, 1) Some drugs which many people may think as prescribed drugs are also classified by FDA as OTC drugs, typically because these were originally prescription-only, but decades of safe use has caused the FDA to classify them as OTC. (Merck, 3) Likewise, not taking the drug as directed, as in case of all drugs, may lead to addiction, poison and even death.
Are OTC drugs as effective as the prescribed drug?
Most often an OTC drug is less effective than its alternative prescribed drug. For example sleeping pills, when purchased without prescription are less effective than the pills taken with a prescription. This is because in order for a drug to be labeled OTC by the FDA , it has to be safe, and being safe for sleeping pills means less of its active ingredient thus has less effect. However, even though these drugs have lower risk, they may lead to overdose and death. One famous death caused by sleeping pills is the death of Heath Ledger, a famous actor. (In Memory of Heath Ledger,1)
In conclusion, OTC drugs being non-prescribed drug are used for treating less serious illness such as headaches and simple burns. However, although labeled as safe it can be misused and should be used with care. As all drugs OTC drugs should be used as directed and also should be kept away from reach of children.
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