Consumption of over-the-Counter Drugs: Prevalence and Type of Drugs

Abstract

Recently, there has been an increase in the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The consumption of these medicines can be unsafe, as incorrect self-diagnosis or the ingestion of inappropriate doses can lead to side effects and the occurrence of adverse reactions and drug-drug interactions. A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was carried out, targeting the entire Spanish population by using an online questionnaire. The results showed that 78.9% of the subjects had previously taken or were currently taking OTC drugs. This consumption decreased as the age of the subjects increased, with a prevalence of 36.4% of subjects aged ≥ 71 taking OTC drugs. Analgesics were the most consumed OTC drugs (49.1%) especially in women, youngsters with non-formal educational qualifications, and individuals of a low-medium socioeconomic level residing in urban areas. Measures should be implemented to optimize the safe use of OTC drugs in order to avoid the occurrence of secondary events associated with the lack of knowledge related to their the usage.

Keywords: OTC drugs; OTC medication; nonprescription drugs; over-the-counter medicines; self-care; self-medication.

Figure 1

Pharmaceutical expenditure, percentage over the Growth Domestic Product (GDP). Data obtained from Sistema de Cuentas del Ministerio de Sanidad, Consumo y Bienestar Social (2003–2018) [10].

Figure 2

Major types of OTC drugs. AN: Analgesics; ATB: Antibiotics; ATD: Antidepressants; CCD: Common cold drugs; ATH: Antihistamines; CM: Cough medication; GP: Gastroprotection; MR: Muscle relaxant; OT: Others.