Abuse of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications

Abstract

The nonmedical use of prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications implies that the user is using them for reasons other than those indicated in the prescribing literature or on the box label. The abuse of these medications is a national issue.Intentional The nonmedical use of a prescription or over-thecounter (OTC) medication implies that the user is using it for reasons other than those indicated in the prescribing literature or on the box label.1 The abuse of these medications is a national issue. Prescription medications are those pharmaceuticals dispensed by a pharmacist on the presentation of a prescription written by a physician, dentist, or other health care provider who is legally authorized to write prescriptions. OTC medications are pharmaceuticals that do not require a prescription and are sold on the shelves of markets, stores, and pharmacies.

Prevalence and predictors of over-the-counter medication use among adolescents in the United Arab Emirates

“…Physicians should be encouraged to screen OTC use and educate adolescents and their families about the proper use of OTC and health risks of self-medication (22). Since pain relievers are the most frequently purchased OTC drugs, it would be beneficial for physicians to treat pain appropriately (24). Education campaigns and activities that focus on increasing parents' knowledge about OTC are particularly important given that children who learn about the risks of OTC from their parents are less likely to use them (12).…”

Pharmacogenetics Role in Forensic Sciences

“…The OTC medicines, such as certain cough suppressant (dextromethorphan), sleep aids (doxylamine), antihistamines (diphenhydramine), decongestants and others can be abused for their psychoactive effects (Lessenger, 2008). According to figures reported by NIDA, in 2009 approximately 7 million (M) reported past month non-medical use of psychotherapeutic drugs (2.8 percent of the U.S. population).…”

North American Primary Care Research Group President's Award

“…18 There are 2 clinical reviews this month. Lessenger 19 reminds us that over-the-counter medicines can be abused, something we may often fail to ask about or consider; we have no equivalent to the recognized screening questionnaires we use to detect alcoholism or depression. A second clinical review reminds us that diesel exhaust can also have wide ranging health implications.…”