"What" Series

What is the meaning of over-the-counter(OTC) drugs?

22 March 2024
2 min read

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medications that can be purchased and used without a prescription from a healthcare provider. These drugs are typically used for the self-treatment of common and minor ailments, such as colds, headaches, indigestion, and allergies. The OTC classification indicates that the medication is considered safe and effective for consumer use without the need for professional medical supervision.

Key points about OTC drugs include:

1.Accessibility: OTC drugs are widely available at pharmacies, supermarkets, and online retailers, making them easily accessible to the general public.

2.Safety: These medications have undergone regulatory review and are deemed safe for use when following the instructions on the label. They have a low risk of serious side effects or interactions when used as directed.

3.Labeling: OTC drug packaging and labels provide clear usage instructions, including recommended dosages, active ingredients, indications, warnings, and potential side effects.

4.Regulation: OTC drugs are regulated by agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to ensure their safety and efficacy for non-prescription use.

5.Cost: Since OTC drugs do not require a doctor's visit or prescription, they are often more cost-effective for consumers compared to prescription medications.

6.Self-Care: The use of OTC drugs supports self-care and empowers individuals to manage their own health for minor conditions without needing to consult a healthcare provider.

It's important to note that while OTC drugs are generally safe when used appropriately, they should still be used with caution. Consumers should read labels carefully, avoid using expired products, and be aware of potential interactions with other medications they may be taking. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

图形用户界面, 文本, 应用程序, 聊天或短信

描述已自动生成

FDA Approves Idorsia's TRYVIO, First Endothelin Antagonist for Resistant Hypertension
Latest Hotspot
3 min read
FDA Approves Idorsia's TRYVIO, First Endothelin Antagonist for Resistant Hypertension
22 March 2024
The FDA has approved Idorsia's daily drug TRYVIO (aprocitentan), the first to use an endothelin receptor antagonist for managing resistant hypertension alongside other medications.
Read →
The Synapse User's Toolkit: Tips for Searching Propofol
Drug Insights
2 min read
The Synapse User's Toolkit: Tips for Searching Propofol
22 March 2024
Propofol, an agonist of the GABAA receptor, is a small molecule drug primarily used for anesthesia.
Read →
Mabwell's Novel ADC Targets Nectin-4, Shows Promise in Cervical Cancer Treatment
Latest Hotspot
3 min read
Mabwell's Novel ADC Targets Nectin-4, Shows Promise in Cervical Cancer Treatment
22 March 2024
Mabwell's novel antibody-drug conjugate targeting Nectin-4 in cervical cancer shows significant treatment promise according to initial clinical findings.
Read →
What is an Orphan Drug?
"What" Series
2 min read
What is an Orphan Drug?
22 March 2024
An orphan drug is a pharmaceutical product that is developed to treat, diagnose, or prevent rare diseases or conditions.
Read →
Get started for free today!
Accelerate Strategic R&D decision making with Synapse, PatSnap’s AI-powered Connected Innovation Intelligence Platform Built for Life Sciences Professionals.
Start your data trial now!
Synapse data is also accessible to external entities via APIs or data packages. Empower better decisions with the latest in pharmaceutical intelligence.