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What Do You Really Know About...
What Do You Really Know About Over-the-Counter Medications?
Just because a drug is available without a prescription doesn't mean it's safe to take, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says. Take this quiz and learn the ins and outs of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.
1. How are prescription drugs different from OTC ones?
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Prescription drugs require a doctor or other health care provider to monitor their effects.
2. You should follow certain precautions when you self-treat with OTCs. What should you do?
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3. Aspirin can cause problems with which of these conditions?
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Aspirin and other salicylates can bring on severe asthmatic attacks in sensitive people. People with nasal polyps also may experience breathing problems. Others at risk are those who have high blood pressure. Children and teens shouldn't be given aspirin because of its link to Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal illness.
4. People allergic to aspirin may also be allergic to which other OTC(s)?
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Allergic reactions may include a rash, itching, and breathing difficulties.
5. You can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs safely for how long before seeing a doctor for a diagnosis?
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Keep track of how many consecutive days you take aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen, the FDA says. If you're still having problems after seven to 10 days, see your doctor.
6. Acetaminophen is less likely than aspirin to cause gastric distress, but an overdose of as little as 4 to 8 grams can lead to irreversible liver disease. Who is most at risk?
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If you take more than an occasional dose of acetaminophen, don't drink alcohol. Overdoses of acetaminophen alone are toxic to the liver. Alcohol in combination with recommended dosages of acetaminophen may be toxic to the liver.
7. Antacids often are taken for digestive problems. What is the greatest danger?
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Antacids can increase or decrease the rate and/or extent of absorption of other medications. Another danger with taking antacids for extended periods without a diagnosis is that they may mask a more serious problem, such as an ulcer or esophageal cancer.
8. Older adults are especially vulnerable to the side effects of which of these OTCs?
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Antihistamines block histamine receptor sites, and older adults may experience pronounced side effects, such as confusion, a dry mouth, lightheadedness, and problems with urination, the FDA says. A side effect of antihistamines is the blocking of a chemical neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Older adults produce less acetylcholine and can't use it as well.
9. Many OTC medications for children come in liquid form. What is the best way to measure the dosage?
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Kitchen utensils are inaccurate for measuring medication dosages. Medication or dosing spoons may resemble wide straws with a spoon at one end. They are designed for children who can drink from a cup but are likely to spill. Measure the dose at eye level.
10. What should you look for when you select an OTC drug?
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Multi-symptom medications expose you to drugs you don't need, which increases the risk of side effects.
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