Although widely available and often very useful, taking over the counter (OTC) medications is not without risk. Read on and discover how to use them safely.

What is the definition of an OTC medication?

OTC medications don’t require a doctor's prescription, and they’re available in pharmacies in a special section that’s accessible to the public. Even though you can obtain them without consulting your pharmacist, OTC medication must be used safely and may even require constant monitoring by your healthcare professional.

What are the most common types of OTC medication?

Self-medicating using OTC products is one of the most common ways of preventing, relieving or treating minor health problems, like colds, flu, pain, indigestion, sore throat or warts.

Here are a few commonly used OTC medications:

• Acetominophen to relieve minor aches and pains and reduce fever;
• Ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory medication used to relieve pain and headaches;
• Antihistamines, like cetirizine, used to treat symptoms of seasonal allergies or certain skin reactions;
• Vitamin supplements (vitamin D, omega-3, multi-vitamins, etc.)

In short, OTC medications are usually recommended to relieve minor, everyday symptoms that are easily recognized, have known causes and occur on a temporary or occasional basis.

To help ensure the safe use of OTC medication, you should be aware of the possible risks associated with their use. Read the information on the label carefully and check the name of the OTC product to avoid confusing it with a similar product. If you’re in doubt, ask your pharmacist for advice.

Your pharmacist: the ideal source for sound information

o ensure the proper use of OTC medication, it’s vital that you have valid, complete and objective information. Although product labels contain a great deal of information, it’s often insufficient, because it doesn’t always consider the condition of the person taking the medication. So, it’s strongly recommended that you speak to your pharmacist before purchasing an OTC product, especially under these circumstances:

• When the OTC product is new to you;
• When you’re already taking a prescription medication;
• When you have a medical condition.

Deciding whether to take an OTC medication is a serious matter. Here are some important questions you should ask yourself before self-medicating with an OTC drug:

• What is the dosage written on the label?
• What are the potential benefits of this drug?
• What are the possible side effects?
• What are the contraindications?
• What other medications are available?
• How long does it take to see or feel the effects?
• Is this medication safe for your age, health or condition?
• Can this drug interact with other medications you’re taking?

As a medication specialist, your pharmacist is the ideal person to these questions and more, and to advise you on proper treatment options—all in a safe, professional manner.

Beware of improper usage and over-use of OTC medication

Some people tend to trivialize the use of OTC medication, and as a result, they can misuse or even abuse them unwittingly. Here are a few examples of possible misuse of OTC products:

• Not following the correct dosage;
• Combining incompatible drugs;
• Using the drug for non-therapeutic purposes.

The overuse of non-prescription drugs, whether it’s voluntary or not, can have potentially serious consequences. In some cases, it can even lead to drug poisoning, which occurs regularly all across Canada. When used improperly or in greater doses than prescribed, these seemingly harmless drugs can be toxic and dangerous. This is particularly true of acetaminophen.

People at the greatest risk when using OTC medication

The use of OTC medication requires extra caution for certain people who are vulnerable to the harmful effects of their misuse.

These types of people include:

• Babies and children under the age of 6;
• Teenagers;
• Pregnant and/or breastfeeding women;

People with chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart, kidney and respiratory diseases.

Advice when using OTC medication

Here are a few tips for the safe, optimal use of OTC medications:

• Always respect the product dosage;
• Always follow your pharmacist's advice regarding the use of the medication;
• Ask your pharmacist for advice and treatment suggestions; they’ll also guide you on the correct dosage for medicines intended for children or babies;
• Always measure the correct dosage with a syringe, cup or other graduated container if the medicine is a liquid;
• Beware of combinations of two or more different drugs in the same formulation (ex.: cold or flu products). What’s more, you don’t necessarily have to take all the drugs at the same time, as it could increase the risk of potential drug interactions and side effects;
• Keep all medication, including OTCs, out of the sight and reach of children or anyone who could be at risk of misusing them;
• Store your medication properly, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer or your pharmacist;
• Do not store medication in areas that have wide temperature and humidity fluctuations, like the bathroom or the car;
• Clean out your medicine cabinet regularly;
• Don't take any medication that has passed its expiration date;
• Return medication that has expired, is damaged or unneeded to your pharmacy for safe and environmentally conscious disposal;
• Above all, always speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions about the safe, proper use of OTC medication.

Remember: depending on your condition, you may need to see a doctor. If that’s the case, don't delay!

OTC medication: the exclusive preserve of pharmacists

Although they’re freely available, OTC medications often require the expertise and sound advice of your pharmacist to ensure you’re using them safely and effectively, so you don’t expose yourself to any undue health risks!

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