Abuse of proprietary (over-the-counter) drugs

Abstract

A predominantly overlooked type of substance abuse by adolescents and young adults in the United States and around the world is the abuse of medications and other products sold without a prescription, or over-the-counter (OTC), to the public. OTC substance abuse causes significant morbidity and mortality, and there are concerns that some types of OTC substance abuse are increasing. Regular office screening for inhalant abuse and other substance abuse and health risk behaviors must be part of standard pediatric care. This article discusses what is known about the extent and clinical impact of OTC substance abuse and reviews key points about recognition, detection, and management.