OTC Drug Abuse: Role of Clinical Pharmacist in its Management

Abstract

Over the counter medications is a part of self-care and self-medication practices that are essential for any health care system. The ease of availability at low cost increases the abuse of these OTC drugs among the population. As these medications can be purchased without any consultation of physician or prescription, its abuse can lead to several health-related issues and addiction. Pharmacists being accessible to interfere with the patients and drug dispensing, they can educate and create awareness among the general public as well as the patients about the OTC drug abuse, addiction and their ill effects. Multiple challenges are also being faced by the pharmacists while interacting and counseling the patients in order to prevent OTC drug abuse. OTC drug addiction is a major problem being faced and their management mainly includes drug detox therapy, drug rehab therapy and sober lifestyle modifications. This article provides a brief review on the potential OTC drugs abuse and their management. This review further explains the challenges faced by the pharmacists during OTC drug abuse management. By proper monitoring of these OTC medications, their abuse may be controlled more effectively, thereby providing better pharmaceutical care.