This document discusses over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and self-medication. It defines OTC drugs as medicines that can be purchased without a prescription, while prescription drugs require a doctor's prescription. Self-medication refers to treating common health problems with OTC drugs without medical supervision. The document outlines factors contributing to increased self-medication and differences in OTC drug regulations between countries like the US, UK, and India. It also notes health risks of mixing OTC drugs and alcohol and warns that self-medication can be dangerous without proper knowledge and precautions.