International Journal on Science and Technology

E-ISSN: 2229-7677     Impact Factor: 9.88

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 16 Issue 2 April-June 2025 Submit your research before last 3 days of June to publish your research paper in the issue of April-June.

STUDY RELATED TO OTC DRUGS

Author(s) NEHA RAUTELA
Country India
Abstract Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medications that can be purchased without a prescription and are commonly used by individuals for the treatment of minor ailments such as headaches, colds, allergies, and digestive issues. These medications are considered safe and effective for use by the general public when taken according to the instructions provided on the label. The increasing availability and accessibility of OTC drugs have significantly contributed to self-medication practices worldwide.

While OTC drugs offer convenience and cost savings by reducing the need for medical consultations, their widespread use raises concerns about potential misuse, overuse, and adverse drug reactions. Inappropriate self-medication can lead to delayed diagnosis, drug interactions, resistance (in the case of antimicrobials), and in some cases, toxicity. Moreover, the lack of awareness among users regarding dosage, contraindications, and side effects adds to the risks associated with unsupervised drug consumption.

The growing reliance on OTC medications underscores the need for public health education and stricter regulatory frameworks. Understanding the patterns of OTC drug use, factors influencing consumer choices, and the level of knowledge about safe drug practices is essential for developing targeted interventions to ensure their rational and safe use.
Keywords Prevalence, Pattern, OTC (Over the counter), Self-medication, Selected Area
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 16, Issue 2, April-June 2025
Published On 2025-05-23
DOI https://doi.org/10.71097/IJSAT.v16.i2.5425
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9mq7z

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