Prescription or over the counter

Dr Natasha Rea Harun, MBBS, explains why it is important to know the difference between prescriptioned and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.

"Prescription drugs are the ones prescribed by doctors or any other licensed healthcare providers, and they are sold only at pharmacies. On the other hand, OTC drugs can be bought off shelves at general stores, supermarkets as well as pharmacies without having to show any prescription," she said.

"OTC drugs help to subdue mild symptoms of illness in patients. Medicines which are sold over-the-counter such as paracetamol, anti-histamine (for allergies) and anti-ulcerant (for flatulence) are easily effective for treating common ailments, without showing any signs of serious side-effects," she states. 

Although OTC drugs are safe to use until the symptoms persist, there are some which can end up doing more harm than good because of prolonged use. 

However, prescription drugs are more powerful than their OTC variants. Here Dr Harun adds, "They usually have a higher concentration of chemicals for tackling severe cases of different diseases". Some even work differently from the OTC drugs in treating the same illness. But neither OTC nor prescription drugs discriminate in their ability to turn potentially fatal when misused. So it is always better to check with your doctor before venturing into your local pharmacy or supermarket. 



By Antara Islam