What are they? Over the counter, (OTC) drugs are non-prescription drugs sold in convenience stores, grocery stores and health shops.  They range from pain relievers, cough and cold remedies to sleeping aids, weight reducing aids, and vitamin supplements. How are they taken? Over-the-counter drugs are taken orally in the form of liquid or pill.  They can also be applied to the skin in the form of ointments, lotions, or liquids. The Scoop on Over-the-counter Drugs

• The chemicals or substances of some over-the-counter drugs have psychoactive effects which means that they impair the central nervous system.
• Large doses of over-the-counter drugs can be very toxic.
• About 50% of elderly people regularly use over-the-counter-drugs.
• There are more than 200,000 non-prescription drugs sold in stores.
• Aspirin is one of most abused OTC drugs involved in emergency room visits for poisoning.
• Over-the-counter drugs may impair the ability to safely drive a vehicle because they can cause drowsiness or excitability.
• As a precaution, do not combine OTC drugs with other drugs, because the combination can result in stronger side-effects, or possibly reduce the effectiveness of the drugs.
• When used correctly, over-the-counter drugs are generally safe.

A.  Pain Killers (e.g. Aspirin, Acetaminophen, and Ibuprofen) Toxicity Symptoms

• Hypersensivity
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Mental Confusion

Long-term Effects

• Liver damage
• Gastrointestinal irritation

B. Cold Remedies (e.g. Antihistamines, Decongestants, and Cough Suppressants) Toxicity Symptoms

• Anxiety
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth and throat
• Loss of coordination
• Irregular heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Blurred vision

Long-term Effects

• Restlessness
• Irregular menstrual cycle in women
• Impaired vision
• Low sex drive
• Constipation
• Mood swings

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Sources: 1.  Over-the-counter Drugs:  Mind Altering Series.  The Wisconsin Clearinghouse. 2.  Prescription Drug Abuse.  Performance Resource Press, Inc., Troy, Michigan.