Significance of Over the counter drug
Over the counter drugs, commonly known as OTC drugs, are medications available for purchase without a prescription. They play a significant role in self-medication practices for treating minor or self-limiting illnesses such as headaches or allergies. While OTC drugs are generally deemed safe and effective, their unsupervised use can present risks, including potential misuse and adverse interactions with other treatments. Their accessibility allows consumers to manage common health issues conveniently, but caution is advised due to associated risks.
Synonyms: Self-medication
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
The concept of Over the counter drug in scientific sources
Over the counter drugs are medications safe for self-medication, available without prescriptions, such as Nimesulide in India, allowing consumers to conveniently manage minor health issues independently.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Medications available for purchase without a prescription, often perceived as safe and non-harmful.[1] (2) Over-the-counter drugs are medications available without a prescription, which are commonly used in self-medication practices.[2] (3) Medications available for purchase without a prescription, used to treat common illnesses like headaches and the common cold. While generally safe, they carry risks of misuse and addiction.[3] (4) Medications available without a prescription, commonly used by pregnant women.[4] (5) OTC drugs, also known as non-prescription medicines, include the drugs sold without a prescription from a registered medical practitioner and are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.[5]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Medicines sold directly to consumers without a prescription from a healthcare professional, allowing easy access but requiring careful self-evaluation by consumers.[6]