What does OTC mean in medical terms?

Refers to a medicine that can be bought without a prescription (doctor's order). Examples include analgesics (pain relievers), such as aspirin and acetaminophen. Also called nonprescription and over-the-counter.

What are examples of OTC drugs?

Popular examples include pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan (Robitussin) and antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin 24H). These drugs are usually located on shelves in pharmacies, grocery stores, and even in gas stations.

What does OTC mean in nursing?

RN Role: 1. May recommend the use of over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical products (including dietary supplements and herbal remedies) and non-prescriptive devices for an identified health-related need of an individual or client as part of her/his nursing practice.

What is the difference between prescription and OTC?

To obtain these medications, a doctor or other healthcare provider must give you a prescription or send a prescription for you to the pharmacy. Prescription drugs should be taken only by the patient they are prescribed for. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medications available without a prescription.

Is ibuprofen an OTC drug?

Ibuprofen is a painkiller available over the counter without a prescription. It's one of a group of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and can be used to: ease mild to moderate pain – such as toothache, migraine and period pain.

Medical Minute - Understanding OTC Drugs

What are OTC antibiotics?

Why do doctors prescribe OTC drugs?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are those you can buy at the store. You don't need a prescription from your doctor. They help you feel better by treating or preventing common health problems. These could include pain, allergies, constipation, cold and flu, or nausea.

Why are some drugs OTC?

Generally drugs can become OTC if: They have low potential for misuse and abuse. They are used for self-diagnosed conditions. They can be used safely and effectively without a health care provider's instruction.

What are OTC drugs used for?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are those that can be sold directly to people without a prescription. OTC medicines treat a variety of illnesses and their symptoms including pain, coughs and colds, diarrhea, constipation, acne, and others.

Can a nurse give OTC medications without an order?

RN may not diagnose and prescribe medications for administration of OTC meds without provider order. medications without a provider's order when 1. The school nurse does so in accordance with nursing knowledge, judgment and skill; and 2.

Can an RN recommend OTC medications?

In a recent survey of the 50 state boards of nursing, I discovered that only nine states maintain policies that allow RNs to recommend OTC medications without the authorization of a physician (two of them allow it only under special circumstances) and only one state holds that LPNs may perform this function.

What are OTC vitamins?

Over-the-counter or OTC medicines, vitamins and dietary supplements do not require a prescription. You can purchase them at grocery and convenience stores, pharmacies and mass merchandisers. All are for treating minor health problems that can be managed at home. They all offer both benefits and have potential risks.

Is aspirin an OTC drug?

You can walk into any pharmacy, grocery or convenience store and buy aspirin without a prescription. The Drug Facts label on medication products, will help you choose aspirin for relieving headache, pain, swelling, or fever.

What means OTC approved?

OTC drugs are defined as drugs that are safe and effective for use by the general public without seeking treatment by a health professional. FDA's review of OTC drugs is primarily handled by CDER's Office of Nonprescription Drugs.

Are OTC drugs safe?

OTC drugs can be bought and used safely without the need for a prescription. All OTC drug products have to meet FDA quality, effectiveness, and safety standards. While easier to obtain and use than prescription drugs, it is important to understand that these products are medicines and not without risks.

What is a major disadvantage of using over-the-counter OTC medications?

Although less potent than other substances, OTC drugs still pose a risk for developing an addiction. Abusing OTC drugs can lead to health problems including memory loss, kidney failure, heart problems and death.

Are generic OTC drugs the same?

They are the exact same ingredient. They have the same dosage, strength, safety and performance. In fact, brand name manufacturers make about half of all generic drugs. And there are store brands of anything from laxatives to cough syrups.

How do I know which OTC to take?

By reading the label, you will find the dosing instructions and read about any warnings that may apply to you, like not to take a medicine if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, Parkinson disease, or if you are pregnant. The label will tell you what to avoid while taking the medicine.

When should I stop taking the OTC medicine?

If you have been taking an OTC medicine but your symptoms don't go away, contact your health care provider. You should not take OTC medicines longer or in higher doses than the label recommends.

When should I stop taking the OTC medication?

You Begin Experiencing Additional Pain or Symptoms

If you start experiencing pain in other parts of your body or symptoms such as vomiting blood or having issues breathing, you need to stop taking the over-the-counter medication and get help.

What OTC meds are anti-inflammatory?

Can you get amoxicillin OTC?

No, you cannot purchase amoxicillin over the counter. You need a prescription. To reduce the risk of developing drug resistance, your doctor or healthcare provider must be convinced that you need this medication before you can get it.

What is the strongest antibiotic for infection?

Vancomycin, long considered a "drug of last resort," kills by preventing bacteria from building cell walls.