Over-the-counter drugs?
OTC drugs are medicines that can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription. Such medicines are easy to purchase because one doesn’t have to visit a doctor for their use. The common OTC medicines include Antibiotics, Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors, Analgesics, Cough, Common cold, Allergies, Fever, Multivitamin Supplements, Calcium & Vit D supplements, laxatives, and many more. As the medicines are quick relievers and easy to use, they often lead to long-term and short-term use side effects and carelessness among patients, and most importantly, excessive use. There is a pre-set notion among patients that these are safe to consume even for a longer period of time, which is absolutely wrong, as using these medicines without proper guidance and knowledge can lead to serious reversible and irreversible health problems.
Hidden Dangers
Excessive use of OTC medicines can lead to many serious health issues. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to unknowing resistance in the future if needed. Overuse of Analgesics can lead to liver damage, kidney failure, and stomach ulcers. Overuse of cough and cold medicines can lead to dependency. Prolonged use of some laxatives can lead to Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Often time there is a drug interaction which is required to be well aware of to prevent the possible side effects.
Why is it increasing rapidly?
It is increasing day by day because of easy availability, lack of time, and hectic lifestyles. Many people are ready to spend days in the hospital later, but are not ready to see the doctor who can treat them properly. They need easy and quick relief options. If we talk about today’s scenario, many times, some of the social media content creators are responsible for this. They preach about every possible medicine without asking their audience to consult their doctor before use. Their content is more about self-medication rather than educational purposes.
Role of Government
The government should enforce strict rules and regulations regarding this serious issue. They should make a chain that can include pharmaceutical companies, pharmacists, and even local medical shop owners. Strict health policies should be made to solve the issue.
Public Health Awareness
Public awareness camps and campaigns should be conducted to create awareness. Every sector should organize such health awareness camps. People should be guided regarding the possible side effects of the medicines. Creating awareness regarding rational use of medicines and encouraging responsible behavior can prevent the community from potential harm.
MBH/AB