Over-the-counter Products Research Articles

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF NON-PRESCRIPTION (OTC) DRUGS

Introduction: Over the counter (OTC) or non-prescription drugs sold directly to a consumer without the doctor's prescription. As compared to prescription drugs, which requires a medical prescription to be dispensed. So, over the counter (OTC) drugs are mainly used for self-medication because such medicines are easily accessible at pharmacies without the doctor's prescription. In India till date, there are no specic unifying regulations related to use and sale of OTC products and this impacts both the accessibility to better health care and patients' safety due to inappropriate use. The aim behind this study is to assess the knowledge and understanding regarding Non- prescription (OTC) drugs. Material & methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study conducted among undergraduates and postgraduate medical students, medical ofcer, specialist, super-specialist nursing students, staff nurse to assess the Knowledge and Understanding of Non-prescription (OTC) drugs. In present study data was collected by Google form over a period of 3 months. 212 responses were received and entered into Microsoft ofce excel & statistical analysis was done. 212 responses were evaluated, Male: Fe Result male ration was120:92. Out of 212 responses, 74 (34.9%) Undergraduate medical students, 44 (20.8%) Postgraduate medical students, 31 (14.6%) Medical ofcer, 21 (9.9%) Specialist, 6 (2.8%) Nursing students, 36 (17%) Staff nurses gave response in this study. Most respondents (n=144, 67.9%) believed that 'OTC/Non-prescription drug' mentioned in Drug and Cosmetics Act. (104, 49.1%) respondents believed that in India OTC/Non-prescription drugs are included in a separate category of drugs and have established regulations for their use. Signicant gaps were noticed in the responses from the respondents with regards to the knowledge about OTC drugs in India. Conclusion General awareness and knowledge of OTC is very good but few are aware about rules with regard to OTC/Non-Prescription and “Household remedies” under Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. In India, there is a committee for OTC/Nonprescription drugs and regulations are still being framed.

Community pharmacists' views and experiences toward over-the-counter medicines misuse and abuse in Saudi Arabia: A qualitative study.

Background: Community pharmacists are uniquely positioned to identify and address the issue of misuse and abuse of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. To date, no study has explored the Saudi community pharmacists' views and experiences regarding aspects of OTC medicines' misuse and abuse. Objective: To explore the views and experiences of the Saudi community pharmacists towards OTC medicines misuse and abuse. Furthermore, we aimed to identify frequently misused and abused medicines, the reasons and contributing factors, the role of pharmacists, and potential risk-mitigating strategies. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a convenient sample of sixteen community pharmacists recruited from community pharmacies across the AL-Baha region, Saudi Arabia. Interviews were conducted using a pilot-tested interview guide in the Arabic language. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated from Arabic into English, and then thematically analysed. Results: Analysis of interviews generated five main themes, including the commonly misused and abused OTC medicines, reasons and factors contributing to misuse and abuse of OTC medicines, pharmacists' interventions to manage misuse and abuse, challenges and barriers to pharmacists' interventions in misuse and abuse issues; and potential strategies to reduce the risk of OTC medicines misuse and abuse and improve pharmacists' practice. Sedative antihistamines, cough products containing dextromethorphan, codeine-based analgesics, and non-codeine-based analgesics were commonly misused and abused OTC medicines. Managing ongoing medical conditions was the main reason for misusing OTC analgesics while recreational use and inducing sleep were the common reasons for abuse. Several factors contributing to misuse and abuse were reported, including unprofessional advice sought from other people, lack of awareness about medicines, and commercial advertisement of OTC products. Community pharmacists identified misuse and abuse among customers by judging their behaviours and attitudes and using structured questioning techniques. Counselling customers on the appropriate use of medicines, providing safe alternatives, and refusing to sell products were among the commonly used actions of pharmacists to address misuse/abuse. Pharmacists proposed several strategies to reduce the risk of OTC medicines misuse/abuse but believed that rescheduling OTC medicines with abuse potential to prescription-only medicine was the best option. Conclusion: Community pharmacists believed that the misuse and abuse of OTC medicines amongst pharmacy customers was common. A multidimensional strategy consisting of upskilling community pharmacists, a comprehensive review of OTC medicines sale regulations, and patient education to limit the risks of OTC medicines misuse/abuse is required.

Self-Medication for the Treatment of Abdominal Cramps and Pain-A Real-Life Comparison of Three Frequently Used Preparations.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), are frequently handled by self-management with over-the-counter (OTC) products such as hyoscine butylbromide (HBB), alone or in combination with paracetamol, and natural products such as peppermint oil. To obtain real-world information, we have performed an anonymous pharmacy-based patient survey among 1686 users of HBB, HBB + paracetamol, and peppermint oil. Based on the distinct but overlapping indications for the three OTC products, multiple logistic regression was applied to compare them in users reporting gastrointestinal cramps and pain, bloating, flatulence, or IBS as cardinal symptoms. All three treatments reduced symptoms and associated impairments of work/daily chores, leisure activities, and sleep by approximately 50%. Based on the four cardinal symptoms and the four dependent continuous variables of interest (change in intensity of symptoms and of the three impairment domains) a total of 16 logistic regression models were applied. HBB, HBB + paracetamol, and peppermint oil had similar reported overall effectiveness in those models. Gender, age, baseline symptom severity, and impairment in one of three domains had small and inconsistent effects on perceived treatment success. We provide evidence that HBB, HBB + paracetamol, and peppermint oil have comparable effectiveness in their approved indications under real-world conditions in an OTC setting.

Alternative and Complimentary Medication Use in Singers: A Pilot Survey

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient in marijuana that has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. It's therapeutic potential and accessibility has made the product popular. Over the counter products (OTC) products have also demonstrated therapeutic potential and have been accessible in public markets for a long time. The objective was to better understand the use of CBD and OTC products amongst singers with varying singing styles. An anonymous online survey was distributed to 1053 singers via The Research Electronic Data Capture (RED-Cap) program in association with Drexel University. The survey aimed to obtain information regarding singing proficiency, styles, if respondents used CBD/OTC products, reasons for use, perceived effects on the voice due to use of these products, and how informed were they in regards to use of these products. From 1053 singers, we obtained 144 respondents (response rate of 13.7%). The average age of respondents was 51.8 years; There were 47 males, 93 females, and four who were nonbinary or preferred not to provide their gender. The majority of respondents (63.2%) were professional singers. Primary singing styles included operatic (18.1%), sacred (20.8%), and musical theater (20.1%). Eighty-seven point five percent of respondents reported warming up before singing and 22.9% reported cooling down after singing. Thirteen respondents reported use of a cannabidiol (CBD) product. Information resources for CBD used primarily came from an online website (38.5%). Among the 13 respondents who reported use of CBD products, 46.2% of these respondents did not notice any positive effects and 46.2% reported no negative effects on the voice when using CBD products. Eighty-two respondents (56.9%) reported use of an OTC, supplement, or alternative medicine product. Majority received Information resources from a physician or other healthcare provider (81.7%). The most frequently reported OTC or complimentary medications used were reflux medications, antihistamines, acetaminophen, and NSAIDs. Reduced inflammation, improved voice recovery, improved voice quality, and improved voice endurance were commonly reported positive effects on the voice with OTC/AM use. Vocal strain, hoarseness, and dryness were the most commonly reported negative effects on the voice with OTC/AM use. Stress, anxiety, or chronic pain was often the primary reason for CBD use amongst singers. The most common OTC medications were used reflux medications, antihistamines, acetaminophen, and NSAIDs.

Over-the-counter Pediculus humanus capitis treatment: The nit comb is not appropriate for all hair types!

Biological diversity of hair affects what stress the hair can withstand. This proves to create a gap in care when evaluating over-the-counter (OTC) products available to treat Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice) in the United States. The nit comb would not be conducive for use in an individual with African hair, yet all OTC product instructions list the requirement of the nit comb. Lice treatment products provide instructions that are applicable for only specific hair types and do not address treatment recommendations for African hair. The OTC product instructions are outdated and exclusionary. A clear discrepancy and gap in care exist for many Americans seeking self-care treatment of pediculosis capitis. Pharmacists should remain aware of this discrepancy and counsel on alternative practices such as applying the active formulations in the hair but refrain from using the nit comb following the application of the topical medication.

Variability of over-the-counter spending on acne treatment across race and demographic characteristics.

Acne is a common skin condition that is associated with long-term dermatologic and psychologic morbidities if left untreated. In this study, a survey was distributed via Amazon Mechanical Turk to evaluate for out-of-pocket costs associated with over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment. A total of 515 respondents with acne were included, of whom 84% used OTC products, spending on average $121.99 ±$115.69 in the past year. Additionally, on average, Black respondents spent more on OTC products than those of other races, and there was a positive correlation between income and expenditure on OTC products. Consistent with the literature, we found that many patients self-treat with multiple OTC products and out-of-pocket costs are significant.

Evidence-based treatment recommendations for OTC management of chronic constipation.

ABSTRACTChronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal condition, and most individuals self-treat with multiple over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives prior to consulting a health care provider. This brief report is a synopsis of an updated systematic review the authors conducted of published data on the efficacy and safety of OTC treatments to provide evidence-based recommendations. After applying the selection criteria, 41 randomized controlled clinical trials of ≥ 4-week duration were identified and analyzed. Standardized definitions of constipation were applied across these studies; however, definitions for stool frequency and consistency varied. Overall, the short- and long-term efficacy of polyethylene glycol-based preparations and senna were supported by good (grade A) evidence suggesting their use as first-line laxatives. Modest evidence (grade B) supported the use of other agents including the stimulants bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate, fiber, fruit-based laxatives, and magnesium oxide. Additional evidence from rigorously designed studies is needed to support the use of other options for chronic constipation. The OTC products studied were generally well tolerated with common adverse effects being abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, diarrhea, and nausea.

367 Googling acne: Analyzing ingredients and price of over the counter acne products

Introduction: Given the convenience of the over-the-counter (OTC) market, many individuals trial OTC products as a means to combat their acne. Within the OTC acne market, there is great heterogeneity in ingredients and price. Herein, we analyze the distribution of ingredients and price among OTC acne products in top Google searches, which the public may encounter when performing an online search. Methods: Google searches for key terms “acne”, “acne treatment”, “top acne treatment”, and “best acne regimen” were performed.

Open-Label Adhesion Performance Study of a Prescription Lidocaine Topical System 1.8% versus Three Lidocaine-Containing Over-the-Counter Patches in Healthy Subjects.

PurposeThis study evaluates and compares the clinical adhesion performance of a prescription lidocaine topical system 1.8% versus two different over-the-counter (OTC) lidocaine patches 4% and an OTC combination menthol and lidocaine patch 1%/4% in human subjects.Patients and MethodsThis study was an open-label, randomized, four-treatment, four-sequence, Phase 1 adhesion performance study in healthy adult volunteers (N = 24). Lidocaine topical system 1.8% (R) and the three OTC patch products (T1, T2, and T3) were separately applied for 12 hours. Adhesion of all products was scored at 0, 3, 6, 8, and 12 hours post-application.ResultsThere were no issues with the conduct of the study. Overall, the majority (≥59.1%) of subjects treated (“patched”) with the lidocaine topical system 1.8% (R) demonstrated ≥90% adhesion (FDA adhesion score 0) throughout the 12-hour administration period versus 27.3% of subjects treated with OTC lidocaine patch 4% (T1), 22.7% of subjects treated with OTC lidocaine patch 4% (T2), and 18.2% of subjects treated with OTC menthol/lidocaine patch 1%/4%. Only one subject (4.5%) treated with lidocaine topical system 1.8% was observed with <75% adhesion (FDA adhesion score <2) versus 11 (50.0%) and 10 (45.5%) for the two OTC lidocaine patches 4% (T1 and T2), respectively, and 13 (59.1%) subjects for the OTC menthol/lidocaine patch 1%/4%. There were no complete detachments observed for lidocaine topical system 1.8%, whereas 50.0% and 31.8% complete detachments were observed for the two OTC lidocaine patches 4% (T1 and T2), and 27.3% complete detachments were observed for the OTC menthol/lidocaine patch 1%/4%. No adverse events were observed for any of the treatments.ConclusionLidocaine topical system 1.8% demonstrated superior adhesion relative to the three lidocaine-containing OTC products over the 12-hour treatment period.

Various Aspects Involved in the Study of Tooth Bleaching Procedure: A Questionnaire-Based Study.

A beautiful smile is an important feature when it comes to a pleasant appearance of the face, and one of the most common situations that drive patients to book a dental appointment is tooth discoloration. Tooth bleaching is the treatment of choice for extrinsic tooth discoloration, as it is a cheap, fast, and minimally invasive procedure. This study aimed to provide comparative information on the perceptions of both patients and dentists regarding different whitening methods and on the factors involved in people’s willingness to recommend and use a bleaching procedure. In addition to this, this study evaluated the degree of satisfaction in relation to the bleaching methods and materials used; it also evaluated the following: negative side effects, economic characteristics and the patients’ perceptions of the aesthetic appearance of their dental arches, especially tooth color. The subjects that participated in the present study were selected based on their background and were then divided into two categories. The first group consisted of 120 patients who had received tooth-bleaching treatments in dental clinics during the study and the second group consisted of 127 dentists. A conventional sampling method was used. The study aimed to define a relationship between multiple aspects of the tooth-bleaching procedure, including the patients’ desires and their general knowledge of this procedure. Tooth color and the way it changes is a very important factor that motivates patients to come to the dentist for whitening procedures. Patients showed the highest levels of satisfaction with the results of in-office bleaching procedures. In the group consisting of dentists, satisfaction levels were higher for the procedure of home bleaching supervised by a dentist. Factors influencing the choice of bleaching materials are appreciated differently by dentists and patients. Furthermore, the rate of patients using OTC (over the counter) products was found to be high. Further research is needed to find more effective and safer alternatives to home tooth-bleaching procedures.

Non-prescription treatments for childhood infections: an Austrian, monocentric, cross-sectional questionnaire study

BackgroundInfectious diseases like the common cold, otitis media, or gastroenteritis frequently occur in childhood. In addition to prescription drugs, parents often use supplementary over-the-counter (OTC) products recommended by pharmacists and other non-medical professionals to relieve their children’s symptoms. However, the efficacy of such alternative treatments lacks conclusive evidence.The objective of this study was to investigate the use of OTC products and related active ingredients in children, and the motivations behind this choice.MethodsThe present study included 215 children aged between 1 and 14 years with an acute respiratory tract infection, e.g., common cold, bronchitis, otitis media, tonsillitis, or gastroenteritis. During their visit to the pediatric practice, parents filled in a self-administered questionnaire about their child’s diagnosis, additional treatment options, and motivations to integrate supplementary medicinal products after their first visit for acute infection or follow-up examination. Children with chronic illnesses and patients visiting for a routine maternal and child health program check-up were excluded. ResultsThe study included 111 (51.6%) males and 104 (48.4%) females. Median age was 3.00 (IQR 2.0 – 5.0) years. The most common reason for a visit was a respiratory tract infection (78.6%). Out of 215 parents, 182 (84.7%) resorted to non-prescription remedies to alleviate their child’s symptoms. Teas (45.1%), and home remedies (43.3%) were the most popular. At total 133 (74.3%) followed recommendations from friends and family regarding additional medications usage. Parents with previous experience with complementary medicine tended to prefer this approach to treat their children (p.adjust = 0.08).ConclusionThe use of non-prescription medicine is increasing as well as the range of related information sources. Evidence-based recommendations in this field might improve pediatric care.

Hyperpigmentation: Looking beyond hydroquinone

Hyperpigmentation is the most common complaint in the age group 40-45years, seeking consultation for skin disorders. Hydroquinone is a commonly used depigmenting agent in clinical practice for treating hyperpigmentation. Prolonged use of hydroquinone has been associated with cancer risk and exogenous ochronosis. The CARES (The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) Act of 2020has instituted significant changes to hydroquinone containing OTC (over the counter) products, and consequently, many hydroquinone-based OTC products had to be withdrawn from the market. Henceforth, products containing hydroquinone would need US Food and Drug Administration approval via new drug application pathways for commercialization. Alternative treatment options to hydroquinone in clinical practice are reviewed in this paper with regard to their safety and efficacy vis a vis hydroquinone. Also, new potential treatment options such as thiamidol, Polypodium leucotomos, and glutathione are discussed. The review shows that these alternative depigmenting agents can be rationally combined to achieve desired treatment goals in the management of hyperpigmentation.

Consumer Perspectives on and Utilization of Medical Cannabis to Treat Dermatologic Conditions.

Access to medical cannabis products (MCPs) has rapidly increased though literature on consumer behaviors and attitudes with regards to dermatologic use is limited. We sought to address the gap of knowledge regarding consumer utilization and perspectives surrounding MCPs for dermatologic indications. A survey was emailed via SurveyMonkey&rsquo;s platform to adult users of their rewards panel asking about usage patterns and beliefs regarding MCP use to treat dermatologic conditions. 504 of 700 survey invitations sent out were completed (72% response rate). 17.6% of respondents used an over-the-counter (OTC) cannabis product without dermatologist recommendation to treat a skin condition [most common indications: acne (28.4%) and psoriasis (26.1%)]. Of those who had seen a dermatologist, 15.3% used an OTC product [most common indications: psoriasis (32%) and rosacea (30%)] and 7.8% used an MCP which required a Department of Health-approved card per their dermatologist&rsquo;s recommendations [most common indications: acne (68%) and psoriasis (28%)]. 11.8% of respondents were not comfortable seeing a dermatologist who recommended MCPs. Limitations include small sample size as well as selection bias. Consumers are interested in and are using MCPs for dermatologic indications, most commonly for inflammatory skin disorders. Targeted education for dermatologists is recommended. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(1):31-36. doi:10.36849/JDD.6540.

Healthcare Providers' Perspectives Toward the Integration of over the Counter Supplements During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study from Jordan.

Objective: During COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers (HCPs) have been inundated with consultations related to over the counter (OTC) dietary supplements’ protective role. Thus, the present study focused on assessing HCPs perceptions toward OTC products integration during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Pertinent data was collected using validated-online survey comprising four sections: demographics, OTC supplementation perceptions, awareness related to safety of OTC supplements, confidence in recommending dosage and counseling to patients regarding OTC supplements’ safety, and some health-related behaviors. Quantified perception score represented by corrected confidence-concern ratio was used in assessing perceptions, and associations between demographics with perception and awareness were explored. Results: A total of 600 responses were included in the final analysis. Vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D were the most popularly recommended OTC supplements. Most respondents indicated positive perceptions toward dietary supplementation while around 60% of respondents reported reluctance about the protective role of COVID-19 vaccination. Bachelor’s degree holders (AOR = 4.39, 95% CI = 2.25–10.33), pharmacists (AOR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.5–9.5), and junior HCPs (<1 year experience) had improved perceptions compared to college graduates, physicians, and senior practitioners (AOR = .17, 95% CI = .04–.78 and AOR = .15, 95% CI = .02–.93), respectively. Conclusion: Suboptimal knowledge among HCPs toward the safety and hazards associated with integration of different OTC supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic dictates further education to ensure the safe integration of OTC supplements.

Consumer Perspectives on and Utilization of Medical Cannabis to Treat Dermatologic Conditions

Background: Access to medical cannabis products (MCPs) has rapidly increased though literature on consumer behaviors and attitudes with regards to dermatologic use is limited. Objective: We sought to address the gap of knowledge regarding consumer utilization and perspectives surrounding MCPs for dermatologic indications. Methods: A survey was emailed via SurveyMonkey’s platform to adult users of their rewards panel asking about usage patterns and beliefs regarding MCP use to treat dermatologic conditions. Results: 504 of 700 survey invitations sent out were completed (72% response rate). 17.6% of respondents used an over-the-counter (OTC) cannabis product without dermatologist recommendation to treat a skin condition [most common indications: acne (28.4%) and psoriasis (26.1%)]. Of those who had seen a dermatologist, 15.3% used an OTC product [most common indications: psoriasis (32%) and rosacea (30%)] and 7.8% used an MCP which required a Department of Health-approved card per their dermatologist’s recommendations [most common indications: acne (68%) and psoriasis (28%)]. 11.8% of respondents were not comfortable seeing a dermatologist who recommended MCPs. Limitations: Limitations include small sample size as well as selection bias. Conclusion: Consumers are interested in and are using MCPs for dermatologic indications, most commonly for inflammatory skin disorders. Targeted education for dermatologists is recommended. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(1):31-36. doi:10.36849/JDD.6540Medical Cannabis

Use of Over-the-Counter Products in Lebanese Adults with Cardiovascular Disease

Background: While selling over-the-counter (OTC) products in pharmacies is convenient to individuals and can be beneficial, it might potentially cause harm. We hereby describe the patterns of OTC product consumption amongst adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Lebanon and the potential interactions with prescription medications and patient diseases.&#x0D; Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in the setting of nine community pharmacies across different governorates of Lebanon. Data of interest were collected from adult patients with CVD history through face-to-face interviews using a short questionnaire.&#x0D; Results: Out of 201 adult patients included in the study, 190 (94.5%) were using at least one OTC product, with a mean of 3.2 ± 2.4 per patient (range of 1 to 12 products). The proportion of patients taking analgesics was the greatest (81.1%), followed by those taking vitamins (48.8%), minerals (29.9%), and herbal products (13.9%). Several potentially harmful OTC product- drug or -disease interactions were identified. Only 65.3% of OTC users reported obtaining information about the used products from healthcare professionals (HCPs), and 35.3% did not disclose the use of the products to their HCPs.&#x0D; Conclusion: The use of OTC products was highly prevalent among patients with CVD with potential interactions with prescription medications and patient diseases. In order to ensure optimal patient outcomes, clinicians are strongly encouraged to inquire about OTC product use and counsel patients about the risks and benefits associated with such products.

Recommendations for Using Over-The-Counter Products as Adjunctive Acne Care in Asian Phototypes: Improving Treatment Outcomes and Managing Side Effects.

Acne vulgaris (acne) is a common inflammatory skin disorder prevalent among all ethnic groups. This review aimed to investigate the current literature regarding the potential benefit of over-the-counter (OTC) adjuncts (eg, moisturizers, cleansers) for acne patients focusing on Asian phenotypes. An online procedure was employed to review the role of adjunctive OTC acne treatment. A panel consisting of dermatologists with expertise in treating Asian acne patients participated in a pre-meeting survey that collected information regarding their recommendation habits for OTC products in acne patients. Recommendations on using OTC products as an adjunct for treating acne in Asians are based on the pre-meeting survey results, evidence from literature presented during a series of plenary lectures, and discussions conducted during a stepwise program of sessions. Many topical treatments have been associated with adverse events (AEs) (eg, skin dryness, erythema, scaling, stinging, burning, pruritus). Multiple studies on topical acne treatments have found that Asians display greater sensitivity and less tolerability than Caucasians to acne treatment. Skincare as an adjunct to acne treatment may reduce dryness or irritation, particularly important in Asians with acne. Advisors agreed that cleansers and moisturizers should be considered for their beneficial adjunctive role in the armamentarium of acne treatment and maintenance strategies. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(11): 1213-1221. doi:10.36849/JDD.6259.

REVIEW OF REGULATIONS GOVERNING SWITCHING DRUGS FROM RX TO OVER-THE-COUNTER IN THE USA, INDIA, AND EU

Rx to over-the-counter (OTC) switch is a data-driven, scientifically rigorous, and highly regulated process that allows consumers to have OTC access to a growing range of medicines. Patients often approach a pharmacist instead of a Healthcare Professional for minor illnesses such as fever, aches, nausea, allergies, cough, and cold. Switches are a logical extension for life-cycle management of a product to defense originator company from Generic competitors. The driving factors required for switching are self-diagnosis, self-medication, and self-administration. On increasing of Rx to OTC switching relatively rules and regulations governing are also improving. Label instructions have to be simple and easily understandable by ordinary people by preventing medication errors and drug abuse. Labeling must include indications, warnings, and directions for use especially since they are administered without medical guidance. Adding a graphic description on the label may be useful to patients, mostly illiterate individuals (e.g., Drug Facts Labeling). The advertisement may also influence patients’ decisions on the selection of OTC products. Medicine advertisements should be closely monitored to ensure that they are truthful and are not misleading or unfair. In this respect, it is recommended that advertisements reflect the information that is contained in the product information leaflet, which, in turn, should be unbiased, evidence-based, and presented in a clear, understandable, and easily readable way. This article elaborates on regulatory requirements, challenges, and marketing aspects of Rx to OTC Switching medicinal products.

Analysis of over-the-counter products marketed to treat molluscum contagiosum.

Many over-the-counter (OTC) products are marketed to treat molluscum contagiosum, a common childhood viral infection with an estimated point prevalence of 5%-11%. As optimal treatment has not been defined, a comprehensive internet search was performed to identify OTC products marketed for treating molluscum and to collect information on packaging, ingredients, application instructions, and dosing. Nine OTC products were identified and varied widely in cost, packaging size, and ingredients; six of the nine products contained Thuja occidentalis. Overall, the majority of OTC package labels do not include sufficient information about their plant-based ingredients or appropriate dosing.

Análise da eficácia de dentifrícios clareadores e seus efeitos na superfície dental: um estudo in vitro

Tooth whitening can be performed at the dental office, at-home or upon the use of OTC (Over-the-Counter) products. Among the latter, there are whitening toothpastes that promise to bleach and to prevent tooth staining. Objectives: (1) to investigate the bleaching and abrasive potential of different whitening dentifrices to enamel; and (2) to evaluate the effect of Oral-B 3D White Perfection® (Oral-B) toothpaste in preventing staining. Materials and Methods: Bovine enamel samples were stained and brushed for 14 days with water (negative control) or with different products: Colgate Total 12® (control), Oral-B, Sensodyne Branqueador Extra Fresh® (Sensodyne), and Colgate Luminous White Advanced® (Colgate). Oral-B was also tested before and after staining. The samples were tested by their color (spectrophotometer) and surface roughness (profilometer). Color change (ΔDE00) was calculated using the CIEDE2000 color system. The data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, SNK, and Mann-Whitney tests (ɑ=5%). Results: The negative control showed the lowest ΔE00 (p