Although over-the-counter (OTC) are generally safe, some contain drugs that have abuse potential. Desai et al list a number of recommendations when handling a patient who abuses on OTC preparation.
Common Failure
Recommendation
failing to take an admission of OTC drug abuse seriously
Take any admission of substance abuse seriously.
failing to ask about a patient's OTC medication usage
Include detailed questions about OTC drug use in the review of current medications.
failing to ask questions of someone who takes large quantities of OTC drugs
Recognize the signs of potential abuse.
failing to follow through with recommendations for substance abuse care
Make sure that the patient gets the care he or she needs. Make sure that the abuse counsellors recognize the problem.
failing to know the abuse potential of compounds in OTC preparations
Be aware of the contents of OTC preparation.
failing to followup a patient for continued abstinence
Help the patient to recover and to maintain abstinence.
NOTE: Not all abuse professionals take OTC abuse seriously, so it is important that the patient is seen by someone familiar with the problem.
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