From the Guidelines
Increased awareness regarding over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, particularly about their safe use in children, can significantly reduce the burden of disease by preventing unnecessary adverse events and promoting responsible self-care. When considering the use of OTC cough and cold medications in young children, it is crucial to understand that these medications have not been proven effective for children under 6 years of age and can be potentially toxic, as evidenced by reports of fatalities associated with their use 1. The awareness should include knowledge about the potential risks, such as drug overdose and toxicity, which have been commonly reported in cases involving the use of multiple cold/cough products, medication errors, accidental exposures, and intentional overdose 1. Key points to consider for responsible OTC medicine use include:
- Recognizing the lack of efficacy and potential safety concerns of antihistamine-decongestant combination products in children under 6 years of age 1.
- Understanding the importance of adhering to recommended dosages and being cautious with certain populations, such as children under 6 years, for whom OTC cough and cold medications are not recommended without consulting a physician 1.
- Being aware of the differences in safety profiles among different types of antihistamines, with second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine, desloratadine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine, and loratadine showing a better safety profile in young children 1. By promoting awareness and education on the safe and effective use of OTC medicines, individuals can make informed decisions about their health, reducing the risk of adverse events and improving overall quality of life.
From the Research
Awareness Regarding OTC Medicines
- Awareness regarding OTC medicines can reduce the burden of disease by promoting safe and responsible use of these medications 2, 3, 4.
- Studies have shown that the public views OTC medications as safer and more effective, but misuse can lead to other health issues 2.
- A cross-sectional study in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia found that many people had moderate knowledge and good practices regarding OTC medications, but there is an urgent need for more concrete regulatory control over OTC drugs and self-medication 2.
Factors Influencing OTC Medication Use
- The level of knowledge and practices regarding OTC medications can be influenced by factors such as age, occupation, nationality, and marital status 2.
- A study found a positive linear relationship between knowledge and practices regarding OTC medications, highlighting the importance of awareness and education 2.
- Gender can also play a significant role in OTC medication use, with women being more likely to use OTC medications and seek counseling from pharmacists 3.
Common OTC Medications and Their Effects
- The most common OTC medications used by patients include paracetamol and ibuprofen 3.
- Loperamide is an effective treatment for patients with painless diarrhea and is considered to be free of abuse potential 5.
- However, OTC medications can also have adverse effects and interact with other medications, highlighting the need for caution and responsible use 6, 4.
Importance of Awareness and Education
- Awareness programs can help educate the public about the proper use of OTC medications and reduce the risk of misuse and adverse effects 2, 3, 4.
- Healthcare providers should also be educated about the potential interactions between OTC medications and other medications, as well as the importance of monitoring patients who use OTC medications 6.
- Older adults should be encouraged to make safe and responsible decisions about self-medication, taking into account their financial and healthcare resources, the severity of their symptoms, and their relationship with their physician 4.