Danger! OTC drug abuse effects:


Over the counters medications are just as serious as prescribed drugs. Drug abuse with over the counter medications can harm the body just as street, prescription, and other substances when used incorrectly. Over the counter drugs (OTC) are less potent than those prescribed by medical professional but, all drugs have real potential for harm and can even be fatal when abused alone and/or taken with other drugs. When not taken correctly, over-the-counter medications can cause very serious medical problem such as depression, brain damage, heart damage, stroke, seizure, liver complications, and many other serious complications to bodily functions. Taking OTC medications for granted can be hazardous to your health. Spending the time to read the label and staying within the suggested dose can greatly reduce addiction risk and other adverse side effects. Then do additional homework to make sure you have all the information you need to avoid a drug disasters. Safety should be the first thing thought about when taking any medications. Sometimes people think just because the medication is not prescribed by a doctor they won’t interfere with other medications their taking or have no risk for addiction. Wrong!! Communication between the physician, pharmacist and patient is essential in preventing side effects of OTC’s and drug abuse. The first most effective line of defense used to prevent or reduce drug abuse is education, teaching the side effects of using certain substances.

Sources:
actiononaddiction.org.uk
pdrhealth.com
associatedcontent.com/the_sideeffects_of_overthecounter_drugs