What is OTC?
OTC or Over-the-counter drugs are referred to medications that people go to buy from a chemist without a legitimate prescription or doctor's advice, solely based on the advice of a chemist which is not considered as a professional opinion.
Why is this Practice of taking OTC drugs can prove to be Hazardous?
Every drug elicits a response when introduced to the body, and not all responses are favorable. Different age groups require different dosages, which pharmacists may not communicate, and many drugs lack proper instructions on packaging. This is where doctors play a crucial role in identifying the disease, narrowing down the probable diagnosis, and providing appropriate medication. While pharmacists offer drugs for symptomatic relief, doctors aim to address the root cause. They understand when to initiate medication, how to administer it, the appropriate dosage, and when to discontinue it.
Several drugs interact with the food we consume, potentially decreasing their efficacy. Proper timing and instructions regarding drug consumption enhance absorption and effectiveness. Unfortunately, these guidelines are not provided when obtaining drugs over the counter, which compromises the maximum delivery of the medication.
Furthermore, dosage adjustments for paediatric, elderly, and geriatric populations differ significantly. Inadequate doses can decrease the outcome while high doses can cause toxic effects.
Equally important is considering the presence of pre-existing co-morbidities or chronic illnesses before prescribing any medication. For example, prescription of Propranolol which is a beta blocker, and is used in hypertension, cannot be prescribed for an asthmatic patient as it will exacerbate the problem. Thus, it must be kept in mind before suggesting a medication.
It is essential to be aware of teratogenic drugs and also Antihistamines as they can cause severe side effects when taken without consulting physicians and under certain conditions.
What are Teratogenic drugs?
Teratogenic drugs are substances that, if taken by a pregnant mother before childbirth, can result in significant physical and mental abnormalities in the foetus. Examples of such drugs include isotretinoin, high doses of Vitamin A, alcohol, cocaine, ACE inhibitors, and others. Insufficient knowledge about these medications and purchasing them over the counter can lead to lifelong complications for the child.
Antihistamines and their effects
Antihistaminic drugs are commonly prescribed for allergic conditions, but they also have an important side effect: increased drowsiness. Despite being available over the counter, these medications should not be taken lightly, as they can contribute to habit-forming behaviours, especially when used by individuals seeking relief from sleep-related issues.
Adverse Drug Reactions
Numerous medications can elicit adverse reactions such as urticaria, itching, rashes, and decreased immunity, among others. Patients often remain unaware of these potential side effects when purchasing medicines from pharmacists.
While certain medications like paracetamol have minimal side effects, others can pose significant risks to both physical and mental well-being. Regardless of the perceived severity of the condition, it is crucial to consult a doctor and adhere to prescribed medications, following the recommended dosage and duration of treatment.
If you have taken such medications and notice any changes in your overall well-being or experience any reactions, it is advisable to promptly seek medical attention.
OTC medications lack proper dosage instructions, age-specific considerations, and information on interactions with food. The presence of pre-existing conditions and the risks of teratogenic drugs further emphasize the need for professional medical guidance. Consulting a doctor and using prescribed medications at appropriate dosages and durations remains essential to ensure one's well-being.Dr Darshit Patel, MBBS, Medical Lead, MedBound