Therapeutic and Toxic Potential of OTCs
Keywords:
Drug Evaluation, Self Medication, Physician-Patient Relations.
Abstract
A short historical development of drug regulations is given, illustrating bow it came about that two drug groups are now available: those on prescriptions by registered practitioners only, and those available over-the-counter. The knowledge and attitude of doctors will determine whether OTCs have a positive or negative impact. Guidelines are given on how to select the appropriate OTC and the toxic potential in specific drug groups is highlighted. It is concluded that much is dependent on the doctor in this field, whether be is knowledgeable about the drugs and . whether be recognises the greater and legitimate role currently played by sophisticated patients in making their own health care decisions.
Issue
Section
Review Articles
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