FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo.--Over the counter refers to medications that are deemed safe and effective when used according to the directions on the package. These medications don't require a prescription and you can get them at almost any store..
It's estimated that there are around 1000 active ingredients in various medication combinations and forms. This can be overwhelming when trying to pick out the correct over the counter medication.
While over the counter medications are generally safe, unknowingly mixing certain over-the-counter medications can result in harm. For example, many cough and cold medicines contain acetaminophen. If a patient already takes acetaminophen for pain and starts taking a cold/flu medication with acetaminophen for fever, the combination could lead to acetaminophen toxicity. A pharmacist can educate patients about the daily limit for acetaminophen to avoid complications such as liver failure.
Over the counter medications can also have interactions with certain medical conditions. A common example of over the counter and medical condition interaction is the use of nasal decongestants in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Many decongestants can raise blood pressure and aren't recommended for patients who have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
With the myriad of over the counter medications available today, speaking with a pharmacist can help patients avoid significant medication and condition interactions. Pharmacists can also help patients choose the right medications for the specific symptoms they are having, without taking extra medications that may not be necessary.
(Editor's note: Justin Madden is a Clinical Pharmacist at General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital)
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