Yadalyne Kurbah <br/><br/>
Over-The-Counter Medication Use and Misuse: Trends, Challenges, and the Role of Pharmacists 

 - pp16-24 
<br/><br/> Over-the-counter (OTC) medications play a crucial role in primary healthcare by providing accessible and cost-effective<br/>treatment for minor ailments such as fever, cold, headache, allergies, and digestive issues. In India, the widespread availability of<br/>OTC drugs has grown significantly, supported by increasing consumer demand, digital penetration, and the expansion of epharmacies. However, this rise has also been accompanied by a concerning trend of misuse and irrational consumption, including<br/>inappropriate self-medication, overuse of antibiotics, and drug interactions, often without professional consultation. Key drivers<br/>of this misuse include limited access to healthcare professionals, economic constraints, cultural reliance on self-care, and<br/>aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies.<br/>This review examines the current trends in OTC medication use across India, shedding light on consumer behavior, market<br/>dynamics, and regulatory gaps. It also emphasizes the critical public health risks associated with OTC misuse, such as<br/>antimicrobial resistance and adverse drug reactions. Importantly, the article underscores the pivotal role pharmacists can play as<br/>accessible healthcare providers in promoting rational drug use. Through proper counseling, patient education, and regulation<br/>enforcement, pharmacists can act as gatekeepers in curbing misuse and ensuring safe self-medication practices. Strengthening the<br/>regulatory framework, enhancing digital surveillance, and empowering pharmacists are recommended strategies to balance<br/>accessibility with safety in the growing OTC drug landscape. 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Facted Index Terms: </label><br/> Over-the-counter medications<br/>Self-medication<br/>Pharmacist role<br/>Drug misuse<br/> Antimicrobial resistance