Over the counter (OTC) medicines

Over the counter (OTC) medicines are sold without a doctor’s prescription, they may be sold at the pharmacy or be on the shelves at Foodies.

OTC medicines are mostly like prescription medicines, they do contain substance, or active ingredients that may be harmful if misused. Unlike prescription medicines, OTC medicines do not require a prescription to purchase them and are available readily online. Over the counter (OTC) medicines are used mostly for mild health problems. These include headaches, aches and pains, sore throat, nose congestion, fever, fungal infections or an upset stomach.

Some OTC medicines can be bought off the shelf from supermarkets and pharmacies while others can be bought after consultation with a pharmacist. General sales medicines like paracetamol tablets/capsules in small pack sizes are available at Foodies, pharmacy medicines like esomeprazole tablets/capsules for heartburn and acid reflux or the emergency contraceptive pill you need to go and see Samantha or Ewan down at the pharmacy.

Misuse of some OTC medications can lead to short term problems with several bodily functions, as well as ongoing problems with liver and kidney function that may lead to a higher susceptibility of chronic diseases later in life. Long term misuse of OTC medicines can lead to liver necrosis and kidney failure. Your body simply is not designed to be continually processing OTC medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. None of this is to say that OTC medications are inherently dangerous, just that prolonged use, or intentional misuse can lead to lifelong (or life ending) problems.

When medications are taken at the dosages recommended on the packaging, they are not likely to do harm. Consultation with a doctor is advised for extended use of any OTC medication like paracetamol or ibuprofen.

If you suspect that you, or a friend, may have taken too many OTC medications, call NIHRACS straight away. If the person is unconscious, call triple zero (000) immediately. If the patient is not breathing, begin CPR.

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