Abuse of OTC and prescribed drugs : popping pills for thrills?

Abstract

Several studies have shown that there is a high prevalence of prescription and over the counter (OTC) drug misuse among certain population groups. In this paper, an overview will be given as to which classes of groups are mostly abused or misused. An analysis will be given as to the various factors, including associated etiologic and social factors, which could lead to prescribed and OTC drug abuse. Warning signs of prescribed and OTC drug abuse misuse will be described. Best practices in the treatment of prescribed and OTC drug abuse will be given, together with a discussion on the role of pharmacists, health care professionals and regulatory authorities in the prevention and education of this key issue in health care. The benefits of easier access to medicines should be balanced against the potential harm from unsupervised or inappropriate use of prescribed medication.