OVER THE COUNTER (OTC) SALES :
Over the counter drugs are available without prescription from physicians.
They are used for minor diseases.
Patients make their own choice of drugs/brands for particular common mild diseases.
Sometimes physicians also prescribe OTC drugs for minor ailments.
Pharmacists also suggest/advice patients for minor diseases. "Over-the-counter drugs (OTC
drugs)" is a loose and legally undefined term.
It does not find a mention in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. 1940, or the
Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945".
As per the United States Department of Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) defines OTC drugs as "drugs that are safe and effective for use by
the general public without seeking treatment by a health professional".
Drugs that fall under Schedule K of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of
1940 and which do not fall under any other restrictive schedules, are
officially considered to be OTC drugs.
MARKET OVERVIEW
Table 18.3: Revenue in the OTC Pharmaceuticals in India (2019)
Segments Revenue (in million
US $)
Analgesics 707.7
C d and Cough Remedies 450.8
ol
Digestive and Intestinal 399.5
Remedies
Skin Treatment 2,209.9
Vitamins and Minerals 168.5
Rational use of OTC Medications :
As OTC drugs are available without physician's prescription, sometimes
there are chances of drug addiction.
Self-medication is another major issue with OTC drugs. Many studies have
been conducted on OTC drugs and self-medication.
Every drug has adverse effects, if consumed for long time.
Drug addicts are controlled by their habit. Everything they do is geared
towards satisfying their need.
Addicts will persist in taking drugs even though they are fully aware of
consequences. Some of the addiction forming OTC drugs are analgesics,
pain killers and cough preparations
Safety of OTC Products:
All OTC drug products must meet FDA standards in terms of
quality, efficacy and safety.
Though easier to purchase and use than prescription medicinal
products, it is important to understand that these are herbal
products though not without risk.
You can think about advantages and the risks before using any
drug to make the best choice for you. Evaluate the products, and
ask yourself:
• What is the persistence of this drug?
• Do I need to use that product?
• Is there any risk for interactions with other medications or
foods?
• What are the side-effects?
• When will I stop taking the medication and contact physician?
• How much medicine will I be taking?
• How often and for how long, and how do I take medicine?