What does "over-the-counter medication" mean?
My best friend has been complaining of stomach discomfort recently and wants me to accompany her to the pharmacy to buy some medication. She noticed a label marked "Over-the-Counter (OTC) medication" and asked me whether these medicines can be taken casually. What exactly does "over-the-counter medication" mean, and are there any precautions to be aware of?
Doctor's answer (1)
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines refer to medications that consumers can self-assess, purchase, and use to primarily relieve common mild symptoms. These medicines have usually undergone long-term clinical verification and are considered relatively safe, but must be used according to medical advice.
Although OTC medicines do not require a prescription, they should still be used with caution. For example, stomach pain may be caused by gastritis, peptic ulcer, or indigestion, and the treatment varies depending on the underlying cause. If stomach pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention first to determine the exact cause. Long-term self-administration of painkillers may damage the gastric mucosa and exacerbate gastric disease.
OTC medicines carry either a red or green label. Red OTC medicines can be sold only in pharmacies, while green OTC medicines can also be sold in supermarkets, hotels, and other locations, indicating relatively higher safety. Compared with prescription medicines, OTC medicines are characterized by safe application, definite therapeutic effects, stable quality, and convenient usage. Their package inserts are detailed and easy to understand, and adverse reactions are relatively fewer, milder, and well known.
When self-purchasing and using OTC medicines, it is essential to carefully read the instructions and follow the recommended dosage and duration of treatment. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after taking the medicine, or if new symptoms appear, medical attention should be sought promptly.
