Research Article: Trends of Over-the-Counter and Prescribed Medication Use During Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract:
Drug dispensing is subject to different regulations in different countries, creating differences in legal status and product control. A medical prescription with instructions from the treating physician is needed for dispensing prescription medications, while over-the-counter (OTC) medications or non-prescription medications can be dispensed by the pharmacist to treat common conditions such as fever, pain, cough and cold, allergies, heartburn, and diarrhea or constipation. Women might need to take medications from “both categories” during pregnancy for pre-existing medical conditions and/or newly developing illnesses. Scattered studies have shown that a large percentage of pregnant women receive prescription medications other than vitamins or minerals. The use of OTC (non-prescription) medications during pregnancy is an important and additional health concern, but little research has been done and the patterns of use are unknown.
Introduction:
Drug dispensing is subject to different regulations in different countries, creating differences in legal status and product control. A medical prescription with instructions from the treating physician is needed for dispensing prescription medications, while over-the-counter (OTC) medications or non-prescription medications can be dispensed by the pharmacist to treat common conditions such as fever, pain, cough and cold, allergies, heartburn, and diarrhea or constipation. Women might need to take medications from…
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