Misuse of over-the-counter Medicines: Pharmacist’s Role

Abstract

Practices of self-care and self-medication are crucial parts of any health care system. The process of self-medication includes the usage of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The prevalence of OTC medication use among patients could lead to a rise in OTC drug misuse. Due to their accessibility, pharmacists frequently serve as the initial point of contact for patients, giving them the chance to inform and advise them about the proper use of OTC medications. The usage of OTC drugs is guaranteed to be secure and efficient when a pharmacist is present. In order to manage patients' self-care practices, pharmacists can communicate with other healthcare professionals. A pharmacist has, however, typically been underutilized in this role. An overview of OTC drugs with abuse potential is given in this article, along with information on how self-medication affects OTC drug misuse. Given the growing likelihood of switching from prescription to over-the-counter medications in recent years, this review goes on to highlight the challenges pharmacists confront in managing OTC medication abuse. Additionally, the possibility for a category of over-the-counter medications to improve interactions between patients and pharmacists was considered. The current review backs up the beneficial part played by pharmacists in controlling OTC drug addiction. The review broadens our understanding of the challenges faced by pharmacists in preventing OTC medicine addiction and creating effective intervention techniques. OTC medicine abuse may be better managed, leading to better patient medication therapy management and results, by broadening the role of pharmacists.