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So that OTC drugs without a prescription do not become dangerous

OTC drugs are medicines that can be purchased without a doctor's prescription. This drug is generally used to relieve certain symptoms. However, the consumption of over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous if abused or consumed not according to instructions for use. Over-the-counter medicines include over-the-counter and over-the-counter drugs, both of which are categories of over-the-counter medicines and can be obtained directly without a doctor's prescription. OTC drugs have a special mark on the packaging, which is a green circle and black border, this drug is sold freely in all outlets including stalls to supermarkets. Limited free drugs have a blue circle symbol with a black border, and accompanied by a warning listing on the packaging, these drugs are usually sold at pharmacies and drug stores that have permission. Not arbitrarily, all drug products with or without a doctor's prescription circulating in the market should have been officially registered at (Drug and Food Control Agency) with marketing authorization. The appropriate drug has been through the stages of evaluation and clinical trials by National Agency of Drug and Food Control.

The purpose and benefits of using over-the-counter drugs without a doctor's prescription

Generally, OTC drugs and limited OTC drugs are consumed only to treat mild symptoms that are considered not requiring consultation with a doctor, such as to reduce fever or reduce pain and itching. However, drugs without a doctor's prescription do not treat the main disease that causes the emergence of these complaints. Compared with prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines tend to be less powerful in dealing with symptoms, so sometimes it takes longer to get the expected effect. Most over-the-counter medicines also have different dosage effectiveness and dosage forms than prescription drugs.

Risks of Taking OTC Drugs without Consulting a Doctor

In dealing with minor complaints, OTC drugs are quite safe to use. However, there are risks to using over-the-counter medicines without consulting a doctor that you need to know about:

  • The use of over-the-counter medicines is incompatible with disease

    • The use of over-the-counter medicines to relieve symptoms may not necessarily make the patient recover fully from the illness. Without a complete medical examination from a doctor, the use of over-the-counter medicines may be incompatible with the diagnosis of the disease.

  • Risk of side effects from over-the-counter drugs

    • Possible side effects and complications due to inappropriate use of over-the-counter drugs, or because of certain medical conditions that consumers have. Especially if over-the-counter medicines are consumed beyond the time limit and recommended dosage for use.

  • Drug interactions occur

    • The possibility of drug interactions that can make over-the-counter drugs work less effectively, or actually cause adverse effects on the body. This interaction occurs if over-the-counter medicines are taken together with prescription drugs or supplements and certain herbal products.

  • Incorrect dose of use

    • Incorrect dosage, too much or too often using certain drugs can have a negative impact on health, such as poisoning and liver damage.

  • Not safe for pregnant and nursing mothers

    • The use of over-the-counter medicines without consulting a doctor for pregnant women can harm the unborn child. The use of both OTC drugs and prescription drugs in pregnant and lactating women must be under the supervision of a doctor.
Therefore, it is important to continue to consult a doctor before buying over-the-counter medicines to relieve your symptoms. This is to ensure the diagnosis of the disease, and the treatment you are taking in accordance with appropriate medical indications.

Safe Ways to Take Medication without a Prescription

Given the various risks of over-the-counter drug use, it is advisable to examine how to take drugs without a doctor's prescription correctly in order to anticipate the possible adverse effects. Some of these ways are:
  • Check whether the free drugs to be consumed can interact with certain drugs, supplements, drinks, or foods. If necessary, record medication, supplements, and vitamins that you routinely consume.
  • Check whether the package contains a warning or a specific prohibition for people with certain diseases.
  • Read and follow the consumption instructions. Avoid doubling the dose or taking medicine longer than recommended. In addition, avoid giving adult medicine for children and vice versa.
  • Always ask your doctor or pharmacist if there is anything unclear about the dosage or instructions for using the drug.
  • Note that some drugs need to be taken with food, while others are advised to take them on an empty stomach.
  • Avoid taking drugs together with alcoholic drinks, because it can reduce the effectiveness of these drugs. Likewise, do not swallow hot drinks, unless the instructions for use recommend that.
  • To avoid the risk of overdose, avoid taking it together with other drugs containing active ingredients
  • Pay attention and note if there is an allergic reaction after taking certain medications.
  • See drug expiration date. Dispose of medication immediately if it has passed its expiration date.
Finally, it is important to understand that even if purchased without a prescription, over-the-counter drugs can pose a risk if taken without proper medical indication. Immediately consult a doctor if symptoms do not go away, get worse, or occur allergies and other side effects that interfere with health after taking over-the-counter drugs.

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