pharm nurs 251 module 2
over-the-counter (OTC) - ANSmedications that are available without a prescription and are
available in most cases without restriction
Active Ingredient and Purpose - ANSListed together in the first row, these are two pieces of
information that quickly tell you what is in the OTC product and what class of drug it is in, which
tells you what it could be used to treat.
Uses - ANSThe recommended uses of the drug are listed out for the consumer.
Warnings - ANSAs previously mentioned, there are many OTC medications that may not be
safe if you have other comorbidities. Essential information is usually included under this section.
Additional information within this section may include when to consult a doctor or pharmacist
prior to use as well as common side effects that can occur. For instance, there is often a
statement regarding if a patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, then they should ask their health
care professional prior to use. This is the case even for medications that are rated a pregnancy
category A (see Module 1). A warning for keeping medication out of the reach of children is also
included in this section.
Directions - ANSStandard dosages are often divided by age and include information on the
amount/number and frequency someone should take of the medication.
Other Information. - ANSThis section often contains important information relative to the proper
storage conditions. Avoiding certain conditions such as extremes in temperate (cold or hot) or
excessive moisture ensures the stability of the medication.
Inactive Ingredients - ANSThe presence of certain ingredients, although inactive, may cause
unwanted allergic reactions
antihistamine - ANSthe primary medication class used to treat allergies, is a good example of a
class of medications that only recently became OTC status
H1 receptors - ANSact on smooth muscle contractions and the dilation of capillaries
H2 receptors - ANSplay a role in gastric acid secretion.
Anticholinergic effects - ANSoccur when a drug blocks acetylcholine at its receptor site
Analgesics - ANSpain medications
antipyretics - ANSanti-fever
over-the-counter (OTC) - ANSmedications that are available without a prescription and are
available in most cases without restriction
Active Ingredient and Purpose - ANSListed together in the first row, these are two pieces of
information that quickly tell you what is in the OTC product and what class of drug it is in, which
tells you what it could be used to treat.
Uses - ANSThe recommended uses of the drug are listed out for the consumer.
Warnings - ANSAs previously mentioned, there are many OTC medications that may not be
safe if you have other comorbidities. Essential information is usually included under this section.
Additional information within this section may include when to consult a doctor or pharmacist
prior to use as well as common side effects that can occur. For instance, there is often a
statement regarding if a patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, then they should ask their health
care professional prior to use. This is the case even for medications that are rated a pregnancy
category A (see Module 1). A warning for keeping medication out of the reach of children is also
included in this section.
Directions - ANSStandard dosages are often divided by age and include information on the
amount/number and frequency someone should take of the medication.
Other Information. - ANSThis section often contains important information relative to the proper
storage conditions. Avoiding certain conditions such as extremes in temperate (cold or hot) or
excessive moisture ensures the stability of the medication.
Inactive Ingredients - ANSThe presence of certain ingredients, although inactive, may cause
unwanted allergic reactions
antihistamine - ANSthe primary medication class used to treat allergies, is a good example of a
class of medications that only recently became OTC status
H1 receptors - ANSact on smooth muscle contractions and the dilation of capillaries
H2 receptors - ANSplay a role in gastric acid secretion.
Anticholinergic effects - ANSoccur when a drug blocks acetylcholine at its receptor site
Analgesics - ANSpain medications
antipyretics - ANSanti-fever
