Over-the-counter Research Articles

Changes in the list of over-the-counter drugs containing biologically active substances of plant origin which are intended to be applied among pediatric patients in Bulgaria

Over-The-Counter (OTC) drugs constitute a large category found in pharmacies. They are intended to be applied among adult patients and infants as well. They are also used for prophylaxis. The number of OTC drugs containing biologically active substances (BAS) of plant origin which are intended to be applied among children is insignificant. The changes in the list of OTC medicines which are applied among children mainly affect products influencing cold and flu symptoms. These medicines often contain decongestants which are considered to be the main reason for the emergence of a number of unwanted drug reactions. In addition, the list of OTC drugs has been supplemented with new medicines, most of which contain the same BAS of plant origin, but the product has been produced by a different manufacturer.

Digits-in-Noise Test as an Assessment Tool for Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids.

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between an American English Digits in Noise (DIN) test and commonly used audiological measures to evaluate the DIN test's ability to detect hearing loss and validate hearing aid fitting. QuickSIN and DIN tests were completed by participants with untreated hearing loss (n = 46), prescription hearing aids (n = 15), and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids (n = 12). Performance on the QuickSIN showed moderate positive correlations with DIN for untreated hearing loss participants and prescription hearing aid users, but not for OTC hearing aid users. For untreated hearing loss participants, both QuickSIN and DIN tests showed positive moderate to strong correlations with high frequency puretone averages. In OTC users, DIN scores did not significantly change over a 6-month time period and were better when conducted remotely compared to in-person testing. Our results suggest that the DIN test may be a feasible monitoring option for individuals with hearing loss and those fitted with hearing aids. However, due to small sample size in this pilot study, future research is needed to examine DIN test's utility for fitting and validating OTC hearing aids.

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICES OF SELF-MEDICATION AMONG ADULT PATIENTS AGED 18 YEARS AND ABOVE RECEIVING HEALTH CARE SERVICES IN THE EYE CLINIC OF JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Purpose of the study This was to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of self-medication among adult patients aged 18 years and above receiving health care services in the eye clinic of Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, carried out from November 2022 to April 2023. Study methods A cross-sectional descriptive study design employing both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection was used in the form of a questionnaire, 30 patients aged 18 years and above who agreed to be included in the study were used. Results Concerning knowledge about self-medication, it revealed that respondents could identify OTC drugs they always use, data analysis and interpretation revealed that respondents’ attitude towards the use of self-medication is still high (50%). Concerning practices of self-medication, between 1st December 2022-1st March 2023, the majority (43.5%) had practiced between January and February 2023, 30% had practiced within the last two weeks according to the time frame of the study, and only 26.1% had last used in December 2022, which showed that self-medication practice is still high within the region. Conclusion Given these findings, there is still a high need to sensitize the population about the knowledge of OTC drugs, the dangers associated with frequent and prolonged use of these drugs, and how to use them safely. Recommendations The government through the Ministry of Health should sensitize the population about the risk factors of wrong use of OTC drugs and the dangers of traditional medicines. It should also extend its health facilities to all areas of the country, and as well make them active by providing drugs and qualified personnel and as well improve the services of the already existing facilities so that people can get help.

Economic self-sufficiency (ESS) as a barrier to health self-sufficiency (HSS) for Burmese refugees in the United States: a culture-centered analysis

From displacement to resettlement, Burmese refugees bear high disease burdens; first as forced migrants escaping conflict and then as second-class citizens in host countries like the United States. This relegation of refugee bodies to the margins upon resettlement, warrants an examination of the contradictions of the process as a humanitarian enterprise yet in violation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 of Reduced Inequalities, particularly through a health inequities lens. In the present study, the researcher conducted 15 semi-structured in-depth interviews with key stakeholders within the resettlement ecosystem of the city of Indianapolis, Indiana in the U.S., including Burmese community members, leaders, and health practitioners. Narrative data reveal an inverse relationship between the federally mandated metric of economic self-sufficiency (ESS) defined as job placement upon resettlement, and health self-sufficiency (HSS) defined as the ability to meaningfully engage with healthcare structures and resources. Participants articulate the precarious nature of such low-wage employment in predatory industries like meatpacking, requiring little to no language or vocational training and subjecting refugee employees to coercive practices including mandatory overtime. These practices are outlined as both dangerous to the health of employees and detracting from their time resources which would otherwise be allocated toward linguistic and vocational training—both required for socioeconomic mobility, as well as to meaningfully navigate labyrinthian healthcare structures. Faced with these structural constraints, Burmese community members demonstrate health self-sufficiency through a combination of treatment with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, traditional healing practices, and by activating familial and community networks as communal resources for accessing healthcare structures.

Dispensing Errors and Self-medication Practices-Pharmacists' Experience in Tabuk: A Cross-sectional Study.

Community pharmacists are engaged in various professional activities starting from drug dispensing to promoting the well-being of patients. They dispense medications as stated in the prescription and are also licensed to prescribe over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Self-medication is widely practiced in various countries, which may lead to irrational drug use. The objectives of this study were to identify the factors associated with dispensing errors, to find ways to minimize dispensing errors, to identify patients' reasons for self-medication, and to find the drugs commonly utilized by patients as OTC medications and the sources of their drug information. A cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 286 registered community pharmacists all over Tabuk was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Physician's unclear handwriting in the prescription was the major factor for dispensing error (2.6 out of 3) and writing the prescription clearly by the physician or using a printed form of prescription was an important factor in minimizing dispensing errors (2.91 out of 3). Previous similar complaints in the past were the main reason for self-medication (2.45 out of 3) with analgesics and antipyretics being the commonly dispensed drug groups dispensed as OTC medications (2.95 out of 3). Self-medication practices and dispensing errors are widespread in Tabuk. Antibiotics were dispensed as OTC medication, which may lead to more chance of irrational drug use. Writing the prescription clearly and legibly would reduce dispensing errors. It is the community pharmacists' responsibility to increase awareness regarding the appropriate use of drugs to the public.

Uncovering Shortcomings in Advertising Strategies for Over-the-Counter Minoxidil Products on Amazon.

Introduction The over-the-counter (OTC) market for hair loss products, particularly those containing minoxidil, has significantly expanded due to the increased prevalence of hair loss. Minoxidil, a vasodilator medication, is known for its potential to stimulate hair growth. However, the rise in OTC formulations has led to misleading advertising and marketing, with some companies exaggerating the benefits of their products while minimizing potential adverse effects. Methods A Google Boolean Search was conducted to identify OTC minoxidil products. The topmost non-sponsored search engine result page was used for analysis. Products not containing any dosage of minoxidil were excluded, resulting in nine products. These were individually searched on Amazon and eight were analyzed for any addressed safety information and adverse effects profile. Results The analysis revealed that only two out of eight products (25%) reported safety information, and none of the products (0%) reported any adverse effects. Significant observations were found surrounding the transparency and accuracy of the advertising and marketing of these products. Many companies made bold claims about their products without providing supporting scientific evidence or studies. Furthermore, many of these OTC hair loss brands did not adequately mention and explain the adverse effects of the product. Conclusions The study highlights the need for greater transparency in the marketing of OTC minoxidil products. Companies should provide clear and accessible information about the safety and potential adverse effects of their products. This will empower consumers to make informed decisions and foster trust between the industry and the consumer. Furthermore, the authenticity and accuracy of marketing images should be ensured to avoid giving false hopes to consumers.

Perception of dentists toward over-the-counter or nonprescription dental products: A questionnaire-based survey

Introduction: The oral health-care market has been one of the leaders in research on the chemistry and biology of the mouth, fostering the development of various oral care products that have significantly enhanced the lives of millions of people around the globe. Considering the many choices of over-the-counter (OTC) products available in the marketplace, it is increasingly difficult to select the proper products. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the many characteristics of these OTC dental medications. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the perception and preference of dentists toward OTC or nonprescription dental products using a questionnaire. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the perception among dental surgeons regarding OTC dental products. One hundred and two filled questionnaires were received from various dentists through Google Forms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 102 filled questionnaires were received and analyzed using descriptive statistics. 27.5% of dental surgeons recommended toothbrushes and mouthwash for daily oral hygiene maintenance. 85% recommended mouthwash based on clinical experience with 53% preferring it to maintain gingival health. 89.2% thought that companies misinform people about their products, which sometimes leads to problems such as dental abrasion, gum recession, and hypersensitivity, and 94.1% believed that more stringent regulation should be made to control unscientific publicity of these products. Conclusion: Most of the dental surgeons recommended the use of OTC dental products based on clinical experience and the specific indication for underlying disease. The preferred products included toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, interdental cleaning aids, and herbal products. The majority of dentists thought that the indiscriminate use of OTC dental products could lead to dental abrasion and gum problems, so strict regulation on the sale of such products should be done.

A comparative study on the efficacy of over-the-counter wax solvents versus distilled water for managing ear cerumen

Abstract Background: Ear wax, or cerumen, is a naturally occurring hydrophobic waxy substance frequently encountered in otorhinolaryngology practices. Despite the abundance of water- and oil-based ceruminolytic agents available nowadays, there remains a lack of consensus regarding the preferred agent type, composition, or ideal treatment duration. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to assess the efficacy of using distilled water as a wax-softening agent for ear wax removal and determine its advantages compared to over-the-counter (OTC) ceruminolytics. Materials and Methods: This double-masked, randomized prospective cohort study enrolled 236 patients seeking treatment for ear wax-related concerns at the Ear, Nose, Throat outpatient department. The cohort exclusively consisted of cases involving right ear wax, which were then randomly allocated into two groups: group A received distilled water ear drops, whereas group B received OTC ceruminolytic ear drops containing a combination of paradichlorobenzene with turpentine oil, benzocaine, and chlorbutol. Evaluation of patients took place pre- and post-intervention, focusing on three key parameters: the total duration required for ear suctioning, any additional instrumentation employed, and the occurrence of pre-procedure and post-procedure complications. Results: Out of the total 118 participants in the study, they were randomly distributed with 67 males and 51 females in group A and 63 males and 55 females in group B. During the pre-intervention complication assessment, nine subjects in group A reported ear blockage, whereas four subjects in group B did so. Additionally, two subjects in group A complained of pain, whereas none in group B did. Furthermore, five subjects in group A developed otitis externa, compared with three in group B. The average time required for ear suctioning to visualize the tympanic membrane was 9.24 ± 2.50 min in group A and 9.68 ± 2.18 min in group B. During the intervention, nine subjects in group A experienced pain during wax removal, whereas only six patients in Group B reported pain. After the interventions, five patients in group A complained of increased ear pain compared with seven in group B. Mild post-interventional pain was managed with an as-needed dosage of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Statistically significant differences were observed in the study parameters between the subjects of the two groups. Conclusion: This study confirms that distilled water can serve as a viable method for dispersing wax, proving its efficacy comparable with commercially available OTC ceruminolytics.

Evaluation of Self-medication with Over-The-Counter among Attahadi University Students

Over-The-Counter (OTC) drugs, or non-prescription drugs, are medicines available without a doctor's prescription for common health issues like pain, headaches, colds, and allergies. They are regulated by the FDA to ensure effectiveness and safety. This study aimed to evaluate the self-medication practice among Attahadi University Students. A cross-sectional study was conducted suing pre-validated questionnaire with 20 multiple-choice questions. It was distributed dace-to-face to university students during July 2023. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. In this study, it was revealed that many respondents were unaware of the advantages and disadvantages of using these medications, which could result in inappropriate use or potential injury. The most widely used class of OTC drugs were painkillers, and many students who took them complained of side effects. A sizable portion of participants mix various OTC medications to treat multiple ailments, which can be risky. Prioritizing safety and efficacy are key, and it is crucial to carefully study labels and seek professional advice as necessary.

Clinical validation of a fast-acting acetaminophen: a randomized, active and placebo controlled dental pain study

Objectives To address the need for faster pain relief of over-the-counter (OTC) analgesic users, a novel drug delivery technology was developed to achieve faster absorption of orally administered acetaminophen with the goal of delivering earlier onset of pain relief. Previous development studies suggested that a 1000 mg dose of this fast-acting acetaminophen (FA-acetaminophen) formulation provided faster absorption and onset of action versus, commercially available OTC fast-acting analgesics, 1000 mg of extra-strength acetaminophen (ES-acetaminophen) or 400 mg of liquid-filled ibuprofen capsules (LG-ibuprofen). This study was designed as the definitive trial evaluating the onset of pain relief of FA-acetaminophen versus these same OTC comparators. Methods This single-dose, randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled clinical trial compared analgesic onset, overall efficacy, and safety of FA-acetaminophen 1000 mg, ES-acetaminophen 1000 mg, LG-ibuprofen 400 mg, and placebo over 4 h in a postsurgical dental pain model. Following removal of 3 to 4 impacted third molars, 664 subjects with moderate-to-severe pain were randomized in a 4:4:2:1 ratio to FA-acetaminophen (249), ES-acetaminophen (232), LG-ibuprofen (124), or placebo (59). Mean age was 18.9 years; 45.5% were male; 57.5% had severe baseline pain intensity. Subjects stopped a first stopwatch if/when they had perceptible pain relief and a second stopwatch if/when their pain relief became meaningful to them. Pain intensity difference (PID) and pain relief (PAR) were obtained using an 11-point numerical rating scale. Findings FA-acetaminophen 1000 mg had faster median time to onset of pain relief (15.7 min) compared to ES-acetaminophen 1000 mg (20.2 min, p = 0.035), LG-ibuprofen 400 mg (23.2 min, p < 0.001), and placebo (non-estimable), statistically greater mean PAR and PID scores than other treatment groups at 15 and 30 min, and a statistically greater percentage of subjects with confirmed perceptible pain relief at 15 and 20 min. At 25 min, FA-acetaminophen 1000 mg had a statistically significantly greater percentage of subjects with confirmed perceptible pain relief than LG-ibuprofen 400 mg and placebo. No clinically significant adverse events were reported. Conclusions This study supports previous studies, demonstrating faster onset of analgesia with FA-acetaminophen 1000 mg compared to OTC ES-acetaminophen 1000 mg and OTC LG-ibuprofen 400 mg. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03224403 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03224403

In brief: A new OTC naloxone nasal spray (RiVive).

The FDA has approved RiVive (Harm Reduction Therapeutics), a 3-mg naloxone nasal spray, as an over-the-counter (OTC) product for emergency treatment of opioid overdose.1 Two 4-mg naloxone nasal spray formulations, Narcan and one of its generics, were approved for OTC sale in 2023.

Transungual Penetration and Antifungal Activity of Seven Prescription and Over-the-Counter Topical Antifungals: In Vitro Comparison

Background: Onychomycosis is typically caused by dermatophytes of the species Trichophyton. Topical antifungals must penetrate the nail to reach the infection, though this can be inhibited by keratin binding within the nail. These in vitro experiments compared penetration of commercially available topical antifungals through keratin-free cellulose disks versus human nails to inhibit Trichophyton growth.&#x0D; Methods: Seven topical antifungals were tested: 3 FDA-approved products indicated for the treatment of onychomycosis (ciclopirox 8% lacquer; efinaconazole 10% solution; tavaborole 5% solution) and 4 over-the-counter (OTC) products for fungal infections (tolnaftate 1% solutions [Formula 3, Formula 7, Tolcylen] and undecylenic acid 25% solution [Terpenicol]). Antifungal efficacy was assessed via cellulose disk diffusion assay. Each product was applied to a 6-mm cellulose disk and placed in the center of an agar plate (85 mm radius) seeded with a clinical isolate of T. rubrum or T. mentagrophytes (2 strains each; 3 replicates/strain for each product). After 4-7 days incubation, the zone of inhibition (ZI)—defined as the radius of the area of no fungal growth—was recorded. To assess the impact of nail penetration on antifungal efficacy, products were applied to the tops of human cadaverous great toenails and allowed to dry. Five 4-mm disks were punched from the middle of each nail and placed treated side up on seeded plates prior to measurement of ZI (5 replicates/strain for each product). In both experiments, results were averaged across the 2 strains of each fungal species and untreated nails served as negative controls.&#x0D; Results: Among FDA-approved topicals in the cellulose disk diffusion assay, efinaconazole and tavaborole demonstrated maximal inhibition (ZI=85 mm) against both T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes; for ciclopirox, average ZIs were lower (59.0 mm; 55.7 mm, respectively). For OTC products, ZIs were 31.2-57.8 mm against T. rubrum and 25.7-47.7 mm against T. mentagrophytes. In the nail penetration assay, average ZI for FDA-approved topicals against both species was greatest for efinaconazole (T. rubrum: 82.1 mm; T. mentagrophytes: 63.8 mm), followed by tavaborole (63.5 mm; 39.1 mm) and ciclopirox (7.4 mm; 3.6 mm). Average ZI of OTC products ranged from 10.5-34.2 mm against both species. ZIs were generally not affected by nail thickness.&#x0D; Conclusions: Our data show that FDA-approved and OTC topical antifungals penetrate cellulose disks more efficiently than cadaver nails, suggesting that keratin in the nails hampers nail penetration. Among all antifungals tested, ability to penetrate human toenails and inhibit growth of both T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes was greatest for efinaconazole, followed by tavaborole. These results indicate superior transungual penetration of efinaconazole compared to the other antifungals, perhaps due to lower keratin binding in the nail.&#x0D; Funding: Ortho Dermatologics

Managing infectious diarrhea among young children in community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia and the implications for AMR.

Diarrhea remains a major global health issue for children under five, contributing substantially to morbidity and mortality. Community pharmacists play a pivotal role in the management of these children; however, their competence in managing childhood diarrhea in Saudi Arabia is under-researched. This is important to ensure optimal patient care. Simulated patients (SPs) presenting with three pediatric diarrhea scenarios were used to evaluate pharmacists' practice in terms of their counselling, history taking, over-the-counter (OTC) prescribing, medication instructions, diet/fluid advice, and/or information provision. Pharmacists' practice was categorized into adequate, less adequate, and poor. 182 community pharmacists, primarily male and non-Saudi, participated in the study, of which 60% were in chain pharmacies. Only 5% showed adequate practice in currently managing pediatric diarrhea. Of the 182 simulated patient visits, 62% received medication in all three scenarios and 20% were referred to physicians, with 16% of pharmacists failing to provide any form of intervention. The main medications recommended were kaolin (34%), pectin (34%) and metronidazole (11%). While most pharmacists (86%) asked about the patient's identity and age, 15% provided incorrect management information, 16% failed to provide guidance on the prescribed medicines, and 18% dispensed antimicrobials without a valid prescription. A high level of inadequate management of pediatric diarrhea in Saudi Arabia was observed. This highlights the need for extensive training to improve community pharmacists' practice in service delivery including providing counselling and advice on the appropriate management of childhood diarrhea. The latter is particularly important to reduce antimicrobial resistance.

Article of Over the Counter (OTC) Products for Relief of Gastrointestinal Problems

Gastrointestinal problems affect millions worldwide, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating conditions. Over-the-counter (OTC) products provide convenient relief from symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. This project aims to analyze OTC products for gastrointestinal relief by examining their active ingredients, effectiveness, side effects, consumer satisfaction, and common usage patterns. The classification of OTC products based on intended use and mechanism of action is outlined, including antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, anti-diarrheals, laxatives, and gas relief medications. Causes of gastrointestinal problems and the advantages and disadvantages of OTC products are discussed. The importance of responsible use and the potential for abuse or misuse of OTC gastrointestinal products are highlighted. Overall, this project underscores the significance of OTC products in managing gastrointestinal symptoms, while emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and responsible usage.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aid Availability across the Spectrum of Human Skin Colors.

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids were recently approved for sale in the United States. Research has shown that consumers prefer hearing devices that match their skin color because these devices are less noticeable. Colorism is discrimination against individuals with relatively darker skin that manifests in "skin-color" product offerings as products being offered primarily in relatively lighter colors. This study compared images of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-registered over-the-counter hearing aids to a range of human skin colors. Most over-the-counter hearing aids are only offered in relatively lighter beige colors. Few over-the-counter hearing aids are available in darker skin colors. These findings may represent structural bias, preventing equitable access to darker skin-color OTC hearing aids for individuals with darker skin.

Over-the-counter hearing aids: implementations and opportunities

After decades of effort by shareholders, including government agencies, patient advocacy groups, and professional organizations, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) established a new medical device category for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids on October 17, 2022. This FDA regulation allows adults aged 18 years or older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss to purchase OTC hearing aids without a prescription or even a hearing test. The goal is to increase hearing aid accessibility, potentially leading to improved hearing and a better quality of life. In our analysis of the FDA Establishment Registration &amp;amp; Device Listing database, we found that the current OTC hearing aid market is still dominated by traditional hearing aid manufacturers, with limited disruptor from major consumer electronics and startup companies. Our technological analyses showed that the relatively high-level output specification without gain limitation allows sufficient amplification even for people with severe-to-profound hearing loss. Additionally, borrowing from the cochlear implant mapping strategy, we propose novel amplification algorithms for fitting OTC hearing aids without an audiogram. We argue that smartphones and true-wireless-stereo earbuds can functionally serve as OTC hearing aids, further increasing accessibility and affordability while reducing the stigma associated with hearing aids, especially in low- and mid-income countries. By treating more people at a younger age with less hearing loss than traditional prescription hearing aids, OTC hearing aids can potentially have a significant impact beyond hearing care, such as delaying or preventing cognitive decline in the elderly.

Increases in retail sales of over-the-counter levonorgestrel emergency contraception in the United States, 2016–2022

ObjectivesTo understand patterns in demand for emergency contraception (EC), we characterize the sales of over-the-counter (OTC) levonorgestrel (LNG) EC in the United States from traditional retail outlets. Study designWe describe sales of OTC LNG EC using retail sales data aggregated from traditional retail channels, including grocery stores, drug stores, mass merchandisers, club stores, dollar stores, and military outlets. ResultsSales of OTC LNG EC doubled between 2016 and 2022 (approximately 7.2–14.8 million). ConclusionsIncreasing sales of EC are consistent with increased use and use frequency of EC by those at risk of pregnancy in the United States. ImplicationsOTC LNG EC sales since 2016 exceed what national survey usage estimates would suggest, indicating that national surveys underreport EC use, those using EC purchase it somewhat frequently, and/or individuals stockpile EC for later use. The role of EC in individual contraceptive strategies, particularly as access to reproductive healthcare is restricted, warrants further study.

Voltammetric analysis of pholcodine on graphene-modified GNPs/PTs with green assessment

Pholcodine, an anti-tussive medication widely used as an over-the-counter, OTC drug, has recently faced restrictions in several countries. This paper presents a sensitive electrochemical approach for pholcodine detection. The electrochemical method involved fabricating a graphene nanoplatelets electrode, incorporating polythiophene nanospheres polymer to promote electron transfer and increase the activated surface area. Characterization of the fabricated electrode was performed using transmission electron microscopy, ATR-Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electrochemical behavior of pholcodine with the fabricated electrode was investigated using cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, square wave voltammetry (SWV), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The developed electrode led to a linear response for pholcodine ranging from 10 to 45 mg/L with detection limits of 1.41 and 1.51 mg/mL for SWV and DPV, respectively and quantification limits of 4.27 and 4.57 mg/L for SWV and DPV, respectively. The proposed method has accurately recovered pholcodine in spiked serum samples with a recovery percentage ranging from 1.2 to 2.9%. The optimized method is found to be accurate, precise, and robust by applying validation parameters provided by International Council for Harmonization. Two green metrics were computed to assess the method’s greenness, the findings showed that the developed method is environmentally friendly with minimum sample preparation steps.

Amplifying Access: Progress After 1 Year of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

Purpose: A number of barriers exist that limit access to hearing aids and services, including high cost, limited number of providers, and patients' perceived lack of need. The traditional model of hearing aid service delivery requires patients to undergo a hearing test, receive a medical evaluation or waiver, and receive a hearing aid fitting from qualified providers, such as a licensed audiologist. In an effort to improve access and affordability, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently established a new category of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults with perceived mild–moderate hearing loss that can be purchased without the involvement of a professional. The purpose of this Viewpoint article is to reflect on the progress that has been accomplished in the inaugural year of OTC hearing aids. Conclusions: In the last year, hearing aids have become more readily available to consumers online and in stores. A number of companies have entered the OTC hearing aid market, leading to innovative designs and a variety of options for consumers. The regulations governing OTC hearing aids have also spurred increased attention on hearing care and created new opportunities for interprofessional collaboration. In addition, research has illustrated the real-world effectiveness of OTC hearing aids. Still, in some respects, the first year of OTC hearing aids has not met expectations. Evidence points to low adoption as well as misconceptions, including regarding the distinction between OTC and prescription hearing aids. Audiologists can play an important role in addressing misconceptions by increasing their own knowledge of the devices and talking about them with patients and in outreach activities. There are a number of outstanding needs, including to investigate U.S. consumers' satisfaction when using these devices long term and to evaluate the impact of OTC hearing aids in countries outside of the United States.

At-home testing for respiratory viruses: a minireview of the current landscape.

The landscape of at-home testing using over-the-counter (OTC) tests has been evolving over the last decade. The United States Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization rule has been in effect since the early 2000s, and it was widely employed during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic to authorize antigen and nucleic acid detection tests for use in central laboratories as well as OTC. During the pandemic, the first at-home tests for respiratory viruses became available for consumer use, which opened the door for additional respiratory virus OTC tests. Concerns may exist regarding the public's ability to properly collect samples, perform testing, interpret results, and report results to public health authorities. However, favorable comparison studies between OTC testing and centralized laboratory test results suggest that OTC testing may have a place in healthcare, and it is likely here to stay. This mini-review of OTC tests for viral respiratory diseases will briefly cover the regulatory and reimbursement environment, current OTC test availability, as well as the advantages and limitations of OTC tests.