OTC, or over-the-counter, drugs are medications that can be purchased without a prescription from a healthcare provider. They are considered to be safe and effective for self-treatment and are available to the general public in a variety of forms, such as tablets, capsules, liquids, and creams.
OTC drugs are generally used to treat common, minor health conditions such as headaches, colds, and minor pain. They are labeled with instructions for use and also carry information about any possible side effects. Some examples of commonly used OTC drugs include ibuprofen for pain relief, antihistamines for allergy symptoms, and decongestants for nasal congestion.
OTC drugs are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The FDA has established a monograph system for OTC drugs, which sets forth the conditions under which certain active ingredients can be marketed for specific indications. To make therapeutic claims for OTC drugs, the companies need to comply with the FDA's monograph system, which includes demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the active ingredients, appropriate dosage, and compliance with FDA's guidelines and regulations.
In summary, OTC drugs, or over-the-counter drugs, are medications that can be purchased without a prescription from a healthcare provider. They are considered to be safe and effective for self-treatment and are available to the general public. They are used to treat common, minor health conditions such as headaches, colds, and minor pain. They are regulated by the FDA and their marketing and labeling are guided by the FDA's monograph system.
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