Summary
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications were created to calm coughs, ease cold symptoms, curb allergic reactions, suppress appetites, assist in getting a good night's sleep, and relieve pain. When taken as directed, these medications can be beneficial, but when taken in larger-than-recommended doses or mixed with other medications, illegal drugs, or alcohol, these remedies can have life-threatening effects. Abuse of OTC drugs is on the rise, in part because they are often present in the home, and users mistakenly believe these drugs are safer than street drugs. Over-the-Counter Drugs looks at a variety of common medications that are abused and discusses the risks associated with them.
Chapters include:
- An Overview of Over-The-Counter Drugs
- History of OTC Drugs
- The Science of OTC Drugs
- The Course of OTC Addiction
- Treatment and Recovery
- Laws, Rules, and Regulations
- Helping Others and Looking Ahead.
About the Author(s)
Mali Rebecca Schantz-Feld is a professional writer and researcher with more than 20 years of experience. She has won awards for writing from the Florida Magazine Association, the Florida Freelance Writers Association, and the American Business Media. She is a member of the American Medical Writers Association, Florida Magazine Association, Society of American Business Editors and Writers, and the Florida Freelance Writers Association/Cassell Network of Writers.