2.1 pharmacology

Question

Answer

What are nonprescription medications commonly called?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

What defines an OTC medication?

A medication available without a prescription and usually without restriction

Where are some nonprescription medications kept despite not requiring a prescription?

Behind the pharmacy counter

What is required to purchase certain behind-the-counter OTC medications?

Identification (ID)

Which decongestant is kept behind the pharmacy counter?

Pseudoephedrine

Why is pseudoephedrine restricted behind the counter?

It can be used to make crystal meth

Give an example of a medication that was once prescription-only but is now OTC.

Loratadine (Claritin)

Give an example of an OTC acid blocker that was previously prescription-only.

Esomeprazole (Nexium)

When did the FDA begin reviewing OTC medications?

1972

What was the primary goal of the FDA OTC drug review?

To ensure OTC medications are safe and effective

What happened to OTC drugs found to be unsafe during the FDA review?

They were removed from the market

What eventually happened to most OTC drugs found to be ineffective?

They disappeared from store shelves

What was the second goal of the FDA OTC drug review?

To establish appropriate labeling standards

What must consumers be able to do regarding indications for OTC use?

Diagnose the condition and monitor effectiveness

How must benefits compare to risks for OTC medications?

Benefits of correct use must outweigh risks

What type of adverse event profile must an OTC drug have?

Favorable adverse events profile

What interaction potential must OTC medications have?

Limited interactions with other drugs

What abuse potential must OTC medications have?

Low potential for abuse

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