Over–the–counter drugs are interchangeably called non-prescription drugs. Over-the-counter drugs are used in self-diagnosis and to relieve mild to moderate symptoms. These drugs do not offer a cure for chronic illness or any serious condition. These are no less than side effects. Long-term use of over-the-counter drugs may cause several adverse effects.
What Are the Over-the-counter Medicines?
Over-the-counter medicines are medicines that we can get directly from the market. They are easily available from any store, including drug stores, chemists, supermarkets, and household stores.
Types of Over–the–counter Drugs
Pain Releasing Medicine – These are the pain-relieving medicines used to reverse mild pain caused due to a small injury.
The over-the-counter painkillers are used to treat headaches, body aches, or stomach pain. OTC painkillers include anti-pain, anti-fever, and anti-inflammatory medicines.
The commonly used pain killers over the counter include:
- • Acetaminophenone- It is used to treat mild pain, headaches, and colds.
- • NSAIDS – They treat fever, pain, inflammation, and swelling. It includes – Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Aspirin.
Acid Neutralizer- These medicines are used for indigestion, heartburn, and include antacids, anti–gastric agents, and diarrhea drugs.
Medicines for cold and cough – The medicines for cold are used to treat a runny nose, cough, and sneezing.
Medicines for skin or topical use – The OTC skin preparations include medicines and lotions for itching, acne, and other anti-septic preparations.
Medicine for allergy or mild symptoms – It includes antihistamines, steroids, and mast cell stabilizers.
Medicine for loose stool – These are the medicines used to treat watery stool and alleviate muscle cramping and abdominal pain.
Constipation Medicines – These are the stool-releasing medicines or the stimulants that cause gastrointestinal movement.
Risk Factors for Taking Over-the-counter Drugs
- • Abuse or Misuse – Many drugs are used for party or enjoyment can lead to addiction, euphoria, etc.
- • Drug Combinations – Many other drugs given in combination with OTC drugs may cause certain side effects.
- • Illness or Medical Condition – The OTC drugs can affect the underlying medical condition or health issue, like diabetes or cardiovascular issues.
- • Incorrect Dosage – Due to unawareness of the dosage, many people are involved in overdosing or overusing.
- • Incorrect Use – Some of the OTC drugs are taken incorrectly without having proper knowledge.
- • Older Age – The OTC drug should be used cautiously in older age due to decreased GIT motility or absorption.
The Best Alternatives for the Various Combinations
- • Esomeprazole – Eprakast-40
- • Esomeprazole and Domeperidone – Eprakast DSR
- • L-leucine, L-isoleucine, L-valine – Hepakast
Important Considerations for Buying OTC Drugs
It is always recommended before buying OTC medicines to read carefully:
- • Labels and ingredients
- • Proper usage
- • Expiry date
- • Check out crucial warnings
- • Consider drug interactions
- • Clearly identify symptoms
The Best OTC Drug Supplier
Gandhi Medicos is the leading drug supplier and distributor, specializing in the distribution of both branded and generic drugs.
Our diverse portfolio includes:
- • Prescribed Medicines
- • Non-prescription medicines
- • Over-the-counter medicines
