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| REVIEW ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2020 | Volume
: 66
| Issue : 1 | Page : 28-34 |
Over-the-counter medicines: Global perspective and Indian scenario
PA Marathe1, SK Kamat1, RK Tripathi1, SB Raut2, NP Khatri1
1 Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, India
2 Behavioral Neuroscience Group, Department of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Australia
Correspondence Address:
S K Kamat
Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/jpgm.JPGM_381_19
Patients often approach a pharmacist instead of visiting a doctor for minor ailments such as cough, cold, allergies, pain, fever, acidity, diarrhea, and skin-related conditions. Purchase of specific medicines over the counter is legally recognized in most countries. 'Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines' means drugs which are legally allowed to be sold by pharmacists without need for a prescription. The term does not have a legal definition in India. Technically, drugs are OTC unless they are specifically stated as prescription only drugs. OTC drugs allow faster and cheaper access to healthcare; however, their misuse and adverse health effects cause concerns. This article describes concept of OTC medicines and practices in India against the background of globally prevalent regulations and practices. A recognized category of OTC medicines by law, patient awareness programs, and support of pharmacists and pharmaceutical companies are required to optimize the use of OTC medicines in India.
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