Healthcare providers and consumers agree — OTC medicines are the preferred first line of treatment to alleviate a range of symptoms. This white paper presents the findings and conclusions of the most important factors that drive trust for consumers and healthcare providers in OTC medicines.
The importance of OTC medicines to ensuring a robust self-care environment for individuals and families to effectively manage their day-to-day health, as well as safe and reliable treatments for healthcare providers to recommend to their patients, will only continue as the demand for access to trusted and affordable healthcare options grows.
This study surveyed 36 patients in a residential addiction treatment program to understand the methods used to improperly obtain prescription medications from physicians. Key findings include:
- Patients obtained an average of 50 prescriptions over 3.8 years, seeing an average of 2 doctors in 1.2 different states and 5 pharmacies.
- The most common reasons for obtaining prescriptions from doctors rather than buying illegally were legal concerns and lower cost/increased comfort.
- The most obtained drug types were opioids (97% of patients) and sedative-hypnotics (47% of patients).
- The majority (75%) feigned symptoms to obtain prescriptions, with some using falsified medical records or
This document discusses self-medication in Croatia, including an overview of self-medication worldwide and in Croatia specifically. It notes that over-the-counter (OTC) drugs make up 27% of drugs used in Croatia by unit. The role of pharmacists is expanding to include health consultation to help patients practice responsible self-medication. Future goals include increasing education of both medical professionals and patients about responsible OTC drug use and the differences between OTC drugs and dietary supplements.
This case study describes a 24-year-old woman who presented with exacerbated chronic knee pain and demanded specific opioid medications. Her past history included heroin addiction but reported being sober for 4 years. On examination, her knee showed no changes but she displayed atypical irritable behavior. The physician suspected drug seeking behavior and refused to prescribe opioids given concerns about relapse of addiction. This case highlights the importance of thoroughly evaluating the potential causes of aberrant behavior before making assumptions about addiction or misuse.
1) The study surveyed 298 patients visiting family doctors for acute sore throat pain to understand their reasons for visiting and expectations.
2) The top three reasons patients visited were to establish the cause of symptoms, get pain relief, and learn about the illness course. Hopes for antibiotics ranked 11th out of 13 items.
3) Patients hoping for antibiotics valued pain relief more and felt less well than others. They had more faith in antibiotics and were less convinced sore throat is self-limiting.
4) The desire for pain relief strongly predicted hoping to get an antibiotic prescription, even after adjusting for other factors. This suggests patients wanting antibiotics may believe it is the best pain treatment.
Your Health at Hand Survey: Perceptions of Over-the-Counter Medicine in the U.S.Your Health at Hand
The document summarizes the results of a survey on perceptions of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in the US. The survey involved 1000 US consumers and 500 US physicians. It found that both consumers and physicians view OTC medicines as an important part of healthcare. Specifically, OTC medicines help empower consumers to care for minor ailments without needing a doctor's visit. They also help reduce the burden on medical professionals by treating minor issues without an office visit. Both groups generally trust that OTC medicines are effective and safe for treating minor ailments.
Dr liu 12 8-2012 updike-risk management and pt assessment in pmChau Nguyen
This document discusses risk management and patient assessment for chronic pain patients being considered for opioid therapy. It outlines how to evaluate risks of addiction, conduct screening, monitor patients on treatment, and intervene if problems arise. Key points include using screening tools to assess risk, implementing strategies like urine testing and restricted refills to reduce risk, and having treatment plans and taper protocols in place for problematic patients. Resources for treatment of opioid dependence are also provided.
Sale of over the counter otc drugs via postiaemedu
This document discusses marketing over-the-counter (OTC) drugs through post offices in India. It notes that rural and poor areas often lack access to pharmacies and drug stores. The document proposes having postmen sell OTC drugs to increase access. It summarizes research on consumer and doctor perceptions of this idea. The research found that 24% of doctors supported the idea, while 61% were opposed. Consumers reported commonly treating minor ailments like headaches with OTC drugs rather than home remedies. The research also found consumers in semi-urban areas were most likely to purchase OTC drugs from post offices compared to urban and rural areas. In conclusion, the document discusses using post offices to expand access to O
This document discusses the challenges of treating chronic pain and opioid dependency. It notes that prior to 2011, addiction rates associated with prescription opioids were believed to be much lower than later studies found them to be. It also discusses the overprescription of pain medications and the high rates of illegal drug use and worse health outcomes among chronic pain patients prescribed opioids. The document advocates for more specialized treatment of chronic pain and opioid dependency as diseases, and notes the medical profession's unwitting role in exacerbating the problems.
This study surveyed 36 patients in a residential addiction treatment program to understand the methods used to improperly obtain prescription medications from physicians. Key findings include:
- Patients obtained an average of 50 prescriptions over 3.8 years, seeing an average of 2 doctors in 1.2 different states and 5 pharmacies.
- The most common reasons for obtaining prescriptions from doctors rather than buying illegally were legal concerns and lower cost/increased comfort.
- The most obtained drug types were opioids (97% of patients) and sedative-hypnotics (47% of patients).
- The majority (75%) feigned symptoms to obtain prescriptions, with some using falsified medical records or
This document discusses self-medication in Croatia, including an overview of self-medication worldwide and in Croatia specifically. It notes that over-the-counter (OTC) drugs make up 27% of drugs used in Croatia by unit. The role of pharmacists is expanding to include health consultation to help patients practice responsible self-medication. Future goals include increasing education of both medical professionals and patients about responsible OTC drug use and the differences between OTC drugs and dietary supplements.
This case study describes a 24-year-old woman who presented with exacerbated chronic knee pain and demanded specific opioid medications. Her past history included heroin addiction but reported being sober for 4 years. On examination, her knee showed no changes but she displayed atypical irritable behavior. The physician suspected drug seeking behavior and refused to prescribe opioids given concerns about relapse of addiction. This case highlights the importance of thoroughly evaluating the potential causes of aberrant behavior before making assumptions about addiction or misuse.
1) The study surveyed 298 patients visiting family doctors for acute sore throat pain to understand their reasons for visiting and expectations.
2) The top three reasons patients visited were to establish the cause of symptoms, get pain relief, and learn about the illness course. Hopes for antibiotics ranked 11th out of 13 items.
3) Patients hoping for antibiotics valued pain relief more and felt less well than others. They had more faith in antibiotics and were less convinced sore throat is self-limiting.
4) The desire for pain relief strongly predicted hoping to get an antibiotic prescription, even after adjusting for other factors. This suggests patients wanting antibiotics may believe it is the best pain treatment.
Your Health at Hand Survey: Perceptions of Over-the-Counter Medicine in the U.S.Your Health at Hand
The document summarizes the results of a survey on perceptions of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in the US. The survey involved 1000 US consumers and 500 US physicians. It found that both consumers and physicians view OTC medicines as an important part of healthcare. Specifically, OTC medicines help empower consumers to care for minor ailments without needing a doctor's visit. They also help reduce the burden on medical professionals by treating minor issues without an office visit. Both groups generally trust that OTC medicines are effective and safe for treating minor ailments.
Dr liu 12 8-2012 updike-risk management and pt assessment in pmChau Nguyen
This document discusses risk management and patient assessment for chronic pain patients being considered for opioid therapy. It outlines how to evaluate risks of addiction, conduct screening, monitor patients on treatment, and intervene if problems arise. Key points include using screening tools to assess risk, implementing strategies like urine testing and restricted refills to reduce risk, and having treatment plans and taper protocols in place for problematic patients. Resources for treatment of opioid dependence are also provided.
Sale of over the counter otc drugs via postiaemedu
This document discusses marketing over-the-counter (OTC) drugs through post offices in India. It notes that rural and poor areas often lack access to pharmacies and drug stores. The document proposes having postmen sell OTC drugs to increase access. It summarizes research on consumer and doctor perceptions of this idea. The research found that 24% of doctors supported the idea, while 61% were opposed. Consumers reported commonly treating minor ailments like headaches with OTC drugs rather than home remedies. The research also found consumers in semi-urban areas were most likely to purchase OTC drugs from post offices compared to urban and rural areas. In conclusion, the document discusses using post offices to expand access to O
This document discusses the challenges of treating chronic pain and opioid dependency. It notes that prior to 2011, addiction rates associated with prescription opioids were believed to be much lower than later studies found them to be. It also discusses the overprescription of pain medications and the high rates of illegal drug use and worse health outcomes among chronic pain patients prescribed opioids. The document advocates for more specialized treatment of chronic pain and opioid dependency as diseases, and notes the medical profession's unwitting role in exacerbating the problems.
The document discusses perceptions of value and relationships among biopharmaceutical stakeholders. It finds that key stakeholders have different definitions of "value" in healthcare, with outcomes being a more important part of biopharma executives' definitions compared to other groups. Physicians are widely perceived as adding the most value to healthcare. While stakeholders generally agree on the benefits of prescription medications, managed care executives are less convinced of patients' spending on medications being worth it. The document also examines stakeholders' perceptions of each other's effectiveness in areas like patient education and understanding needs. Most groups feel patients can do more to improve health behaviors and outcomes.
This document discusses effective pain management and the challenges of treating chronic pain with opioids. It provides an overview of pain management principles, the risks of addiction, and approaches to assessing patients and monitoring opioid treatment. While opioids can help treat pain in some cases, providers must consider the risks and benefits for each patient due to the potential for abuse, addiction and undertreatment of pain.
Dr. Andrew Kolodny: "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis" 4.11.17reportingonhealth
Dr. Andrew Kolodny's slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis," 4.11.17
More info: http://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/after-obamacare-future-us-health-care
The document discusses key terms used when discussing pain medications and risk management. It defines terms like abuse, addiction, physical dependence, pseudoaddiction, and tolerance to encourage accurate use of terminology and promote better patient care and regulatory policies. Uncontrolled pain is an enormous public health problem, already costing tens of billions annually. Relieving pain is fundamental to public health, as recognized by many medical and regulatory organizations.
The document summarizes a study that reviewed charts of 86 patients discharged from an Opioid Renewal Clinic (ORC) over 22 months to examine outcomes two years after discharge. The most common reason for discharge was recurrent positive urine drug screens for illicit substances (47%). Only 17% received addiction treatment in the two years after discharge. 41% were prescribed opioids within two years of discharge, and those prescribed opioids tended to have longer stays in the ORC and more primary care visits after discharge. The outcomes reveal a need to improve addiction management for this patient population.
The document summarizes guidelines for providing information about diseases and prescription medicines to the public in the Netherlands. It outlines the Dutch regulatory system for pharmaceutical advertising and promotion. The guidelines were developed in response to increased disease awareness campaigns and public demand for prescription medicine information. They establish standards for balanced, complete information about diseases and technical information about prescription medicines. The guidelines apply to all parties providing such information and include conditions like not misleading the public or leading to unnecessary medical treatment. A transitional period was provided for adjusting existing information to the new guidelines.
Lisa Girion: "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis" 4.11.17reportingonhealth
Lisa Girion's slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis," 4.11.17
More info: https://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/reporting-americas-opioid-drug-crisis
The document discusses the importance of the pharmaceutical industry to Europe. It summarizes that the industry directly employs over 630,000 people in Europe and contributes 3.5% of EU manufacturing value. It is one of the few remaining high-technology industries in Europe. The industry also plays a dual role as a major economic contributor and in improving health outcomes for European citizens. However, access to new medicines remains a challenge due to the high costs of research and regulatory hurdles.
This presentation will cover information about polypharmacy in older populations. The presentation will allow explain the use of technology such as HomeMeds as a tool to prevent adverse reactions in older populations.
Prof. Keith Humphreys: "Profiteers of Tragedy: Making Money Off America’s Opi...reportingonhealth
Prof. Keith Humphreys' slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Profiteers of Tragedy: Making Money Off America’s Opioid Addicts," 10.31.17
More info: https://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/profiteers-tragedy-making-money-americas-opioid-addicts
The lecture discusses over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. OTC medicines are drugs approved by the FDA that can be purchased without a prescription. The lecture aims to define OTC medicines, identify their advantages, note risks, discuss their use in children, and list common OTC categories. Potential side effects of OTC drugs are also reviewed, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. The speaker emphasizes reading labels, using OTCs only for intended symptoms, and avoiding interactions with prescription drugs.
The document discusses disease awareness campaigns by pharmaceutical companies in Europe. It notes that while EU law prohibits direct advertising of prescription drugs to the public, companies use unbranded campaigns to indirectly promote their products. Several case studies of campaigns are presented that stretch and violate ethical guidelines by inappropriately fear-mongering about diseases and implying the need for specific brand-name drugs without disclosing risks. The document calls for regulatory agencies to better screen such campaigns and ensure companies are not using social media for disguised drug advertising.
This document discusses orphan drugs, which treat rare diseases. It defines orphan drugs and outlines criteria used in the US and EU to designate drugs for rare diseases. Rare diseases affect fewer than 200,000 people in the US and 10,000 in the EU. The Orphan Drug Act of 1983 in the US provided incentives for orphan drug development. Similar laws exist in other countries. Developing orphan drugs is challenging due to low patient populations and high costs. Examples of orphan drugs and their manufacturers are provided. The process for obtaining orphan drug designation is also summarized.
Over the counter drugs and drug abuse among healthcare professionals is discussed. The document examines the prevalence of substance use among healthcare workers, citing studies that found 65.1% of males and 34.9% of females reporting abuse of over-the-counter drugs. Reasons for abuse included easy accessibility, saving time and money, and treating minor ailments. Intervention and prevention measures are recommended, including anonymous physician health programs for evaluation and treatment, medical interventions like rehabilitation programs, and conditions for licensure to help prevent relapse. Education on substance use and effects should begin in high school and continue during university and professional training.
Kristen Sismilich created a patient education tool for veterans undergoing chemotherapy at the Baypines VA Hematology/Oncology Clinic. The tool provides pictures and descriptions of common chemotherapy side effects and signs/symptoms that require immediate medical attention. Nurses and patients responded positively to the tool. While the tool still needs approval from the VA, its goal is to improve patient health outcomes and appropriate use of healthcare services by enhancing health literacy as outlined in Healthy People 2020 objectives. Low health literacy is associated with poorer health outcomes and healthcare utilization according to research.
This document discusses pharmacovigilance, which is the science related to monitoring the safety of medicines. It notes that clinical trials are limited in detecting rare or long-term adverse drug reactions, so ongoing monitoring of medicines is important after approval. Pharmacovigilance systems like spontaneous reporting allow for detection of unknown adverse reactions. Underreporting of reactions is a challenge, so education to improve reporting is needed. Overall, pharmacovigilance aims to identify safety issues with medicines throughout their lifecycle to protect patients.
Pain Validity Test identifies drug seeking behavior. Stop opioid abuse. Prote...Nelson Hendler
Physician prescribing practices are under constant scrutiny. An Internet questionnaire will predict if a patient will have a medical test abnormality with 95% accuracy, and 100% if the patient will not. This Pain Validity Test can be used to detect drug seeking behavior in patients, at a far high level of accuracy than tests currently in use (34.4%-48.2% accuracy).. The Pain Validity test has been admitted as evidence in 30 cases in 9 states.
overuse and misuse of antibiotic put all of us at danger, and help to develop drug-resistant bacteria, so-called superbugs. which ultimately increase the cost of health care. so the third world countries are facing a burden of an extra charge of expenditure and unusual death
Orphan drugs are intended for the treatment of rare diseases or conditions affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the US or 5 in 10,000 people in the EU. Various acts like the Orphan Drug Act of 1983 in the US and the Rare Diseases Act of 2002 in the EU provide incentives like market exclusivity periods of 7-10 years and waivers on fees for drug approval to encourage development of treatments for rare diseases. However, developing orphan drugs remains challenging due to the small patient populations and high costs. Major pharmaceutical companies and some specialist companies are involved in orphan drug development and access to these treatments remains a priority.
The CHPA's Your Health at Hand initiative emphasizes the critical role of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for Americans and the U.S. healthcare system. Through research, the initiative highlights the benefits of OTC medicines, including convenience, affordability, empowering individuals to manage their own healthcare needs, and being a trusted treatment option. Surveys found that OTC medicines are an important part of daily life for many Americans and help avoid unnecessary doctor visits. The initiative shares real stories from people who rely on OTC medicines to treat minor ailments and enhance their family's health.
This report examines the role of OTC medicines in the U.S. health care system as reflected through professional treatment guidelines, medication use data, as well as clinical and consumer research.
Pharmaceutical marketing aims to educate consumers and healthcare professionals about new treatments. While some question the value of marketing, it plays an important role in disseminating medical information. Recent changes include voluntary principles for direct-to-consumer ads and a strengthened industry code of ethics. Studies show marketing helps address underdiagnosis and undertreatment by raising disease awareness and prompting patients to see doctors. However, most physicians say clinical knowledge and patient needs strongly influence prescribing over marketing.
The document discusses perceptions of value and relationships among biopharmaceutical stakeholders. It finds that key stakeholders have different definitions of "value" in healthcare, with outcomes being a more important part of biopharma executives' definitions compared to other groups. Physicians are widely perceived as adding the most value to healthcare. While stakeholders generally agree on the benefits of prescription medications, managed care executives are less convinced of patients' spending on medications being worth it. The document also examines stakeholders' perceptions of each other's effectiveness in areas like patient education and understanding needs. Most groups feel patients can do more to improve health behaviors and outcomes.
This document discusses effective pain management and the challenges of treating chronic pain with opioids. It provides an overview of pain management principles, the risks of addiction, and approaches to assessing patients and monitoring opioid treatment. While opioids can help treat pain in some cases, providers must consider the risks and benefits for each patient due to the potential for abuse, addiction and undertreatment of pain.
Dr. Andrew Kolodny: "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis" 4.11.17reportingonhealth
Dr. Andrew Kolodny's slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis," 4.11.17
More info: http://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/after-obamacare-future-us-health-care
The document discusses key terms used when discussing pain medications and risk management. It defines terms like abuse, addiction, physical dependence, pseudoaddiction, and tolerance to encourage accurate use of terminology and promote better patient care and regulatory policies. Uncontrolled pain is an enormous public health problem, already costing tens of billions annually. Relieving pain is fundamental to public health, as recognized by many medical and regulatory organizations.
The document summarizes a study that reviewed charts of 86 patients discharged from an Opioid Renewal Clinic (ORC) over 22 months to examine outcomes two years after discharge. The most common reason for discharge was recurrent positive urine drug screens for illicit substances (47%). Only 17% received addiction treatment in the two years after discharge. 41% were prescribed opioids within two years of discharge, and those prescribed opioids tended to have longer stays in the ORC and more primary care visits after discharge. The outcomes reveal a need to improve addiction management for this patient population.
The document summarizes guidelines for providing information about diseases and prescription medicines to the public in the Netherlands. It outlines the Dutch regulatory system for pharmaceutical advertising and promotion. The guidelines were developed in response to increased disease awareness campaigns and public demand for prescription medicine information. They establish standards for balanced, complete information about diseases and technical information about prescription medicines. The guidelines apply to all parties providing such information and include conditions like not misleading the public or leading to unnecessary medical treatment. A transitional period was provided for adjusting existing information to the new guidelines.
Lisa Girion: "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis" 4.11.17reportingonhealth
Lisa Girion's slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Reporting on America’s Opioid Drug Crisis," 4.11.17
More info: https://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/reporting-americas-opioid-drug-crisis
The document discusses the importance of the pharmaceutical industry to Europe. It summarizes that the industry directly employs over 630,000 people in Europe and contributes 3.5% of EU manufacturing value. It is one of the few remaining high-technology industries in Europe. The industry also plays a dual role as a major economic contributor and in improving health outcomes for European citizens. However, access to new medicines remains a challenge due to the high costs of research and regulatory hurdles.
This presentation will cover information about polypharmacy in older populations. The presentation will allow explain the use of technology such as HomeMeds as a tool to prevent adverse reactions in older populations.
Prof. Keith Humphreys: "Profiteers of Tragedy: Making Money Off America’s Opi...reportingonhealth
Prof. Keith Humphreys' slides from the Center for Health Journalism webinar, "Profiteers of Tragedy: Making Money Off America’s Opioid Addicts," 10.31.17
More info: https://www.centerforhealthjournalism.org/content/profiteers-tragedy-making-money-americas-opioid-addicts
The lecture discusses over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. OTC medicines are drugs approved by the FDA that can be purchased without a prescription. The lecture aims to define OTC medicines, identify their advantages, note risks, discuss their use in children, and list common OTC categories. Potential side effects of OTC drugs are also reviewed, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. The speaker emphasizes reading labels, using OTCs only for intended symptoms, and avoiding interactions with prescription drugs.
The document discusses disease awareness campaigns by pharmaceutical companies in Europe. It notes that while EU law prohibits direct advertising of prescription drugs to the public, companies use unbranded campaigns to indirectly promote their products. Several case studies of campaigns are presented that stretch and violate ethical guidelines by inappropriately fear-mongering about diseases and implying the need for specific brand-name drugs without disclosing risks. The document calls for regulatory agencies to better screen such campaigns and ensure companies are not using social media for disguised drug advertising.
This document discusses orphan drugs, which treat rare diseases. It defines orphan drugs and outlines criteria used in the US and EU to designate drugs for rare diseases. Rare diseases affect fewer than 200,000 people in the US and 10,000 in the EU. The Orphan Drug Act of 1983 in the US provided incentives for orphan drug development. Similar laws exist in other countries. Developing orphan drugs is challenging due to low patient populations and high costs. Examples of orphan drugs and their manufacturers are provided. The process for obtaining orphan drug designation is also summarized.
Over the counter drugs and drug abuse among healthcare professionals is discussed. The document examines the prevalence of substance use among healthcare workers, citing studies that found 65.1% of males and 34.9% of females reporting abuse of over-the-counter drugs. Reasons for abuse included easy accessibility, saving time and money, and treating minor ailments. Intervention and prevention measures are recommended, including anonymous physician health programs for evaluation and treatment, medical interventions like rehabilitation programs, and conditions for licensure to help prevent relapse. Education on substance use and effects should begin in high school and continue during university and professional training.
Kristen Sismilich created a patient education tool for veterans undergoing chemotherapy at the Baypines VA Hematology/Oncology Clinic. The tool provides pictures and descriptions of common chemotherapy side effects and signs/symptoms that require immediate medical attention. Nurses and patients responded positively to the tool. While the tool still needs approval from the VA, its goal is to improve patient health outcomes and appropriate use of healthcare services by enhancing health literacy as outlined in Healthy People 2020 objectives. Low health literacy is associated with poorer health outcomes and healthcare utilization according to research.
This document discusses pharmacovigilance, which is the science related to monitoring the safety of medicines. It notes that clinical trials are limited in detecting rare or long-term adverse drug reactions, so ongoing monitoring of medicines is important after approval. Pharmacovigilance systems like spontaneous reporting allow for detection of unknown adverse reactions. Underreporting of reactions is a challenge, so education to improve reporting is needed. Overall, pharmacovigilance aims to identify safety issues with medicines throughout their lifecycle to protect patients.
Pain Validity Test identifies drug seeking behavior. Stop opioid abuse. Prote...Nelson Hendler
Physician prescribing practices are under constant scrutiny. An Internet questionnaire will predict if a patient will have a medical test abnormality with 95% accuracy, and 100% if the patient will not. This Pain Validity Test can be used to detect drug seeking behavior in patients, at a far high level of accuracy than tests currently in use (34.4%-48.2% accuracy).. The Pain Validity test has been admitted as evidence in 30 cases in 9 states.
overuse and misuse of antibiotic put all of us at danger, and help to develop drug-resistant bacteria, so-called superbugs. which ultimately increase the cost of health care. so the third world countries are facing a burden of an extra charge of expenditure and unusual death
Orphan drugs are intended for the treatment of rare diseases or conditions affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the US or 5 in 10,000 people in the EU. Various acts like the Orphan Drug Act of 1983 in the US and the Rare Diseases Act of 2002 in the EU provide incentives like market exclusivity periods of 7-10 years and waivers on fees for drug approval to encourage development of treatments for rare diseases. However, developing orphan drugs remains challenging due to the small patient populations and high costs. Major pharmaceutical companies and some specialist companies are involved in orphan drug development and access to these treatments remains a priority.
The CHPA's Your Health at Hand initiative emphasizes the critical role of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for Americans and the U.S. healthcare system. Through research, the initiative highlights the benefits of OTC medicines, including convenience, affordability, empowering individuals to manage their own healthcare needs, and being a trusted treatment option. Surveys found that OTC medicines are an important part of daily life for many Americans and help avoid unnecessary doctor visits. The initiative shares real stories from people who rely on OTC medicines to treat minor ailments and enhance their family's health.
This report examines the role of OTC medicines in the U.S. health care system as reflected through professional treatment guidelines, medication use data, as well as clinical and consumer research.
Pharmaceutical marketing aims to educate consumers and healthcare professionals about new treatments. While some question the value of marketing, it plays an important role in disseminating medical information. Recent changes include voluntary principles for direct-to-consumer ads and a strengthened industry code of ethics. Studies show marketing helps address underdiagnosis and undertreatment by raising disease awareness and prompting patients to see doctors. However, most physicians say clinical knowledge and patient needs strongly influence prescribing over marketing.
Pharmaceutical marketing to healthcare providers provides information on new treatment options, but it is only one of many factors that influence prescribing decisions. Surveys find clinical knowledge, patient factors, and insurance policies have greater impacts. Approximately 67% of US prescriptions are for generic drugs, much higher than other countries. While representatives provide information, prescribing is shaped more by clinical guidelines, peers, formularies, and insurers' prior authorization requirements than representative interactions.
Chapter 8_Over The Counter (OTC) Medications.pptxVinayGaikwad14
Definition, need and role of Pharmacists in OTC medication dispensing
OTC medications in India, counseling for OTC products
Self-medication and role of pharmacists in promoting the safe practices during self medication
Responding to symptoms, minor ailments, and advice for self-care in conditions
This document discusses the non-prescribed use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs by medical students. It finds that 70% of students self-medicate with cough remedies, antihistamines, and analgesics. Some also misuse broad-spectrum antibiotics and multivitamins. While OTC drugs can provide convenience, their misuse poses health risks like antibiotic resistance. The document examines the types of OTC drugs commonly used in India and their growth drivers and barriers. It also discusses debates around classifying some drugs in a new "behind-the-counter" category requiring pharmacist discussion.
Concept of essential medicines and rational use of medicinesVivek Nayak
This document discusses essential medicines and rational drug use. It defines essential medicines as those that meet the priority health care needs of the population based on efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness. The WHO publishes a model list of essential medicines that is divided into core and complementary items. Rational drug use means using the appropriate medicine at the right dose for the correct duration. Promoting rational use involves training, continuing education, and formulary guidance. Irrational use increases costs and harms patients.
The document discusses rational use of medicines and the role of pharmacists in promoting rational use. It defines rational use of medicines according to WHO as ensuring patients receive appropriate medicines based on their clinical needs at the lowest cost. Pharmacists can promote rational use by properly managing drug stocks, dispensing medications correctly with patient education, and participating in pharmacovigilance programs. The document also outlines several other strategies to improve rational use, including developing treatment guidelines, regulating drug promotion, and educating both healthcare providers and the public.
c.paramasivan Consumers awareness of the retail pharmaceuticals in tirunelvel...chelliah paramasivan
The document discusses a study on consumer awareness of retail pharmaceuticals in Tirunelveli district, India. It finds that customer behavior significantly influences the purchasing of pharmaceutical products. Most customers buy medicines based on doctor's prescriptions in regular shops. The study also finds that the majority of respondents are male graduates who purchase medicines for fever, cough and stomach pain. Most feel retail prices are reasonable and prefer paying in cash. In conclusion, the document summarizes that customer behavior drives medicine purchases and most follow doctor's advice when buying from local retailers.
This document discusses medication errors that can occur in hospitals. It defines medication errors as any error in prescribing, dispensing, or administering drugs, regardless of whether harm occurs. Medication errors are a major cause of preventable patient harm. The document classifies medication errors as mistakes, slips, or lapses, depending on where the error occurs in the medication use process. It also discusses different ways medication errors have been estimated to cause deaths in other countries to highlight the significant impact of these errors.
This paper discusses the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in the United States. It examines the roles of physicians overprescribing drugs, pharmaceutical companies aggressively marketing drugs, and individuals needing to take responsibility for their health. The paper argues that while prescription drugs can help some patients, too many are prescribed unnecessarily or dangerously. Physicians should recommend lifestyle changes before drugs, and individuals should research alternatives to newly prescribed drugs which are often pushed by pharmaceutical advertising. Overall responsibility lies with physicians to consider patient well-being over profits, pharmaceutical companies to curb misleading marketing, and individuals to make informed health decisions.
This document provides an introduction to community pharmacy and self-care. It discusses key topics including:
- The importance of community pharmacists in being accessible healthcare providers that can provide advice and treatment for minor conditions.
- The concept of self-care and how it has grown to encompass individual health choices and management of illness with or without medical support.
- How community pharmacies can facilitate self-medication and play an important role in supporting self-care.
- Communication skills and clinical reasoning approaches important for community pharmacists to appropriately assess patients' signs and symptoms.
The document summarizes key findings from a two-phase study on US consumers' preferences for seeking and using health information.
In Phase 1, participants were divided into four health groups based on self-reported overall health. Those in poorer health sought information more frequently and were more likely to ask their doctor for a specific drug.
Phase 2 used the PATH model to segment participants into nine archetypes based on health attitudes and behaviors. Archetypes like Clinic Cynics and Avoiders were less proactive in seeking information, while Ready Users and Independently Healthy individuals sought information more frequently. Persistence with medication also varied by archetype, with Clinic Cynics and Naturalists more likely to discontinue medication without informing
The pharmaceutical industry has made it very difficult to know what the clinical trial evidence actually is regarding psychotropics. Consequently, primary care physicians and other front-line practitioners are at a disadvantage when attempting to adhere to the ethical and scientific mandates of evidence based prescriptive practice. This article calls for a higher standard of prescriptive care derived from a risk/benefit analysis of clinical trial evidence. The authors assert that current prescribing practices are empirically unsound and unduly influenced by pharmaceutical company interests, resulting in unnecessary risks to patients. In the spirit of evidenced based medicine’s inclusion of patient values as well as the movement toward health home, we present a patient bill of rights for psychotropic prescription. We then offer guidelines to raise the bar of care equal to the available science for all prescribers of psychiatric medications.
It is defined as knowledge of fact through reading, study or practical experience on chemical substance that is used in diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases.
It covers all type of information including; objective and subjective information as well as information gathered by scientific observation or practical experience.
An Essential Drug List, also known as a core drug list or medication list, is a carefully selected inventory of medications that are deemed essential for addressing the most prevalent health conditions within a specific population or country. It serves as a key component of national drug policies and pharmaceutical programs, ensuring the availability, accessibility, and affordability of essential medicines. The list is typically developed based on rigorous criteria, taking into consideration the medications' safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for primary healthcare settings.
Rational Drug Therapy refers to the systematic and evidence-based approach to prescribing medications, aiming to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. It involves following established therapeutic guidelines and clinical protocols to ensure that medications are prescribed in a manner that is appropriate for the patient's condition, taking into account factors such as age, weight, co-existing conditions, drug interactions, and individual response. Rational drug therapy promotes the use of medications based on sound scientific evidence, emphasizing the principles of efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness to optimize patient outcomes and improve overall healthcare quality.
Social media and the internet have increased promotion and use of herbal and dietary supplements. However, information online about supplements is often misleading and not backed by scientific evidence. As healthcare professionals, we should provide patients with evidence-based information to help them make informed decisions and avoid potential health risks from unproven supplements.
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White Paper: Understanding Trust in OTC Medicines:Consumer and Healthcare Provider Perspectives
1. Understanding Trust in OTC Medicines:
Consumer and Healthcare Provider Perspectives
March 6, 2013
2. Table of Contents
I. Over-the-Counter Medicines Today: Value, Savings, and Self-Care Trends
II. Understanding Trust in OTC Medicines: Consumer and Healthcare Provider Perspectives
A. Introduction
B. Consumer Findings
i. Overall Consumer Trust
ii. Consumer Preference and Behavior
iii. The Knowledgeable Consumer
iv. Consumer Trust Insights by Demographic
C. Healthcare Provider Findings
i. Healthcare Provider Trust
ii. Healthcare Provider Recommendations
iii. Primary Care Physician Findings
iv. Pharmacist Findings
v. Pediatrician Findings
vi. Nurse Practitioner Findings
III. Conclusion
i. Additional Observations
ii. Final Insights
IV. The Future of Self-Care: OTC Medicine Outlook
V. Survey Methodology
2
3. I. OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINES TODAY:
Value, Savings, and Self-Care Trends
Non-prescription, or over-the-counter (OTC), medicines are a vital component of our nation’s healthcare system. These
are the medicines and products consumers often turn to first when illness strikes, whether to relieve their symptoms in
the middle of the night or during the work or school day. Yet despite Americans’ everyday reliance on these safe and
effective treatments and products, the average consumer – as well as policymakers, healthcare professionals and the
public health community – may not fully recognize the important role OTC medicines play in innovating healthcare,
empowering consumers, addressing the nation’s looming physician shortage, and delivering critical healthcare cost
savings. A growing body of research on the impact and value of OTC medicines indicates it is time for the experts and
consumers alike to consider the importance of these important treatment options in order to maximize their potential
to reduce healthcare costs and expand self-care in America.
The Bigger OTC Picture
Previous research on OTC medicines has revealed that, on average, physicians report that more than one out of 10 office
visits result from minor ailments that could be self-managed by patients, including by the use of OTC medicines. i This
amounts to tens of millions of unnecessary treatments each year that could be avoided. By empowering consumers to
safely and effectively treat a range of minor ailments through self-care, OTC medicines also relieve the burden on
physicians, helping to address our country’s looming primary care physician shortage; soon to soar as millions more
Americans acquire healthcare coverage.
Overall, the availability of OTC
medicine in the categories analyzed in
a 2012 Booz & Co. study, The Value of
OTC Medicines to the United Statesii,
found that OTC medicines provide
significant value for the U.S.
healthcare system –
$102 billion in annual savings relative
to alternatives – and increase
consumer access to treatment. This
figure includes $77 billion in savings
from doctor’s appointments and
diagnostics avoided and $25 billion in
drug cost savings, comparing lower
priced OTC medicines to higher priced
prescription medicines. On average,
every dollar spent by consumers on OTC medicines saves $6-7 for the U.S. healthcare system as a whole.
The Current Role of OTC Medicines
Over the last few decades, the variety of OTC treatments available to consumers has expanded significantly. In fact,
more than 700 OTC products on the market today use ingredients or dosages that were once available only by
prescription. In March 2012 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a public hearing to discuss the future of
OTC medicines and explore a new “prescription-to-OTC switch” paradigm, stating: “Getting medicines into the hands of
consumers has become troublesome over the last few years. Research shows that for a variety of reasons, 20 percent of
patients with prescriptions do not get them filled. In addition, the time or cost required visiting a doctor to receive a
prescription or refill often stops patients. FDA thinks that some of these doctor visits can be eliminated. It is exploring
ways to make drugs for common conditions available as nonprescription products.”iii Addressing the need to empower
3
4. consumers’ ability to manage their healthcare through a range of treatment options, including OTC medicines, is an
important issue for policymakers and other stakeholders.
Recent research captures the importance of OTC medicines to consumers. In fact, the 2012 Booz & Co. study found that
the availability of OTC medicines provides symptomatic relief for an estimated 60 million people who otherwise would
not seek treatment.iv A 2011 survey, Perceptions of Over-the-Counter Medicine in the U.S., revealed that 89 percent of
consumers believe OTC medicines are an important part of their overall family healthcare.v A 2013 survey from Edelman
Berland, Unlocking America’s Medicine Cabinet, reinforces this statistic, finding that nine out of 10 Americans say that
OTC medicines are an important part of their family healthcare.vi
The data unveiled in this report builds upon these insights with findings from a new survey conducted by Nielsen and
IMS, Understanding Trust in OTC Medicines: Consumer and Healthcare Provider Perspectives, on behalf of the Consumer
Healthcare Products Association. The survey examines two important stakeholder groups – consumers and healthcare
providers – and analyzes what drives these groups’ use and trust in OTC medicines.
4
5. II. Understanding Trust in OTC Medicines:
Consumer and Healthcare Provider Perspectives
Introduction
To gain new insights on the issue of what drives trust in OTC medicines, Nielsen and IMS partnered to conduct surveys of
consumers (Nielsen) and healthcare providers (IMS) to understand what leads both groups to trust OTC medicines. Both
survey designs measured relative importance of potential trust attributes, or drivers. Respondents spent approximately
five minutes answering profiling questions, followed by approximately five minutes of an exercise where they looked at
12 sets of four attributes that were repeated in different patterns to result in an overall relative ranking of 20 attributes
of trust.
Consumer Findings
Overall Consumer Trust
We know that consumers today have an
abundance of choices when it comes to
OTC medicines, however, the Nielsen
survey revealed that the most important
factors in determining consumers’ trust
in an OTC medicine are that the
medicine will work for them, will be as
effective as a prescription, does not
have many side effects, and is
recommended by their doctor.
Consumer Preference and Behavior
The survey found that the majority of consumers prefer using OTC medicines versus a prescription. In fact, more than
two-thirds of consumers surveyed prefer to use OTC medicines instead of a prescription when the OTC is available.
OTC medicines enable consumers to treat themselves when minor illness or injury occurs, allowing them to avoid an
unnecessary doctor’s visit. According to the research, 61 percent of consumers surveyed visit a healthcare provider just
one to two times a year. Yet, the
average U.S. household reports four to
five instances of cold and flu and three-
to-four instances of heartburn each
year.vii This finding suggests that, for a
range of illnesses, consumers rely on
OTC medicines to relieve their
symptoms, without having to see a
healthcare professional. In fact, in four
major categories of symptoms,
consumers use OTC medicines for relief
without seeing a healthcare
professional: cough, cold, flu, or sinus
relief – 84 percent; pain relief – 82
percent; upset stomach/acid reflux relief
– 77 percent; and allergy relief – 75
percent.
5
6. The Knowledgeable Consumer
According to the research, most consumers are knowledgeable about selecting the appropriate OTC medicine to treat
their own symptoms. Nearly two-thirds of consumers report that they understand what the ingredients in different OTC
medicines do, which leaves both a responsibility and opportunity for industry and regulators to continue to educate the
remaining public about OTC medicines, especially how and why to read and follow the Drug Facts label, which lists active
ingredients. Furthermore, when it comes to choosing an OTC medicine, 89 percent of consumers choose which OTC
medicine to buy based on the symptoms it treats. This is particularly true for allergy symptoms. The research found that
the availability of OTC allergy medicine is especially important to consumers surveyed, 90 percent of whom report that
they readily or occasionally use OTC allergy medicine to alleviate their symptoms.
Consumer Trust Insights by Demographic
The survey examined trust factors among certain consumer demographics, including U.S. households with children. For
households with children under 4 years old, the most important trust attribute in deciding which OTC medicine to take
or give to a child is that the medication is recommended by their doctor. Further, members of households with children
under 4 years old are more likely to see a healthcare provider for relief of symptoms from colds, flu, fevers, or coughs as
compared to other consumers. Additionally, members of households with kids under 12 years old are more likely to
“almost always turn to the Internet to diagnose my/others symptoms.”
The findings also revealed that one in
four respondents identified themselves
as being someone “others often ask for
advice on what OTC medicines they
should take.” These individuals can be
considered “Family Health Influencers”
for their knowledge about OTC
medicines and the role they take in
educating others.
These “Family Health Influencers” can
be defined as consumers who are more
likely to report that they understand
what the ingredients in different OTC
medicines do, know what OTC
medicines to take or give to others,
avoid going to the doctor unless they absolutely have to, and almost always turn to the Internet to diagnose their
symptoms or others’ symptoms.
“Family Health Influencers” also report that they trust their doctor’s advice on what OTC medicine they should take or
give to others, choose which OTC medicine to buy based on the symptoms it treats and, when it is available, prefer to
use an OTC instead of a prescription medicine.
“Family Health Influencers” are more likely to be women – and many are mothers. The research indicates that “Family
Health Influencers” rely on OTC medicines as an important treatment option, finding that 86 percent report they readily
or occasionally use OTC medicine to alleviate symptoms.
In addition, the survey also found that multigenerational households, Hispanic households, and households who care for
an adult outside of their home place a high value on pharmacist or in-store healthcare professional recommendations.
Multigenerational households are more likely to trust products with easy-to-understand instructions.
6
7. Healthcare Provider Findings
Healthcare Provider Trust
The survey found that healthcare providers recommend and trust OTC medicines. Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists have
clear-cut criteria for when to trust OTC medicines – they work consistently to alleviate symptoms.
When primary care physicians, nurse
practitioners, and pharmacists decide
what OTC medicine they trust to take
themselves or give to their family
members, of 20 different criteria, the
most important are an OTC medicine
they know will achieve successful patient
outcomes, work consistently, and be as
effective as a prescription.
Healthcare Provider Recommendations
Nearly all healthcare providers surveyed
recommend OTC medicines to their
patients without reservation. In fact,
only about one in 100 healthcare
providers express any reluctance
recommending OTC medicines to their patients or caregivers. The findings delved deeper into healthcare provider trust
factors in across four specialty areas: primary care physicians, pharmacists, pediatricians, and nurse practitioners.
Primary Care Physician Findings
The survey found that 98 percent of primary care physicians either recommended or had no reservations recommending
OTC medicines to their patients. In fact, nearly three-fourths of primary care physicians will recommend OTC medicines
to relieve symptoms before recommending a prescription treatment.
Specifically, three-fourths of
all primary care physicians
surveyed will recommend an
OTC medicine before a
prescription treatment to
relieve their patients’
symptoms for ailments such
as allergies, pain, cough and
cold, and acid reflux/upset
stomach. For instance, the
survey found that 80 percent
of primary care physicians
will recommend OTC
medicines to their patients
before recommending a
prescription treatment to
relieve symptoms of upset
stomach/acid reflux.
7
8. Pharmacist Findings
According to the survey, 97 percent of pharmacists either recommended or had no reservations recommending OTC
medicines to their patients, and two-thirds of pharmacists will recommend OTC medicines to relieve symptoms without
recommending a prescription treatment. Specifically, nearly six out of 10 pharmacists surveyed will recommend an OTC
medicine before a prescription treatment to relieve their patients’ symptoms for ailments such as allergies, pain, cough
and cold, and acid reflux/upset stomach. The survey also found that eight out of 10 pharmacists surveyed recommend
taking OTC medicines and encourage caregivers and patients to read and carefully follow instructions before taking the
medicine.
Pediatrician Findings
The survey found that 89 percent of pediatricians either recommended or had no reservations recommending OTC
medicines to their patients and 80 percent of pediatricians will recommend OTC medicines to relieve symptoms without
recommending a
prescription treatment.
Specifically, nearly three-
fourths of all pediatricians
surveyed will recommend an
OTC medicine before a
prescription treatment to
relieve their patients’
symptoms for ailments such
as allergies, pain, cough and
cold, and acid reflux/upset
stomach. According to the
survey, pediatricians look
first and foremost to
whether an OTC medicine is
safe to give to children under
18 years old when deciding
to recommend the medicine.
Nurse Practitioner Findings
The findings also revealed that 98 percent of nurse practitioners either recommended or had no reservations
recommending OTC medicines to their patients and nearly seven in 10 nurse practitioners will recommend OTC
medicines to relieve symptoms without recommending a prescription treatment. Specifically, more than two-thirds of
nurse practitioners surveyed will recommend an OTC medicine before a prescription treatment to relieve their patients’
symptoms for ailments such as allergies, pain, cough and cold, and acid reflux/upset stomach.
8
9. III. Conclusion
Additional Observations
It is important to note that these findings reveal nearly one-third of the population report that they don’t know what the
ingredients in OTC medicines do. This leaves an opportunity and a responsibility for industry and regulators to continue
innovative educational efforts about OTC medicines to both consumers and healthcare providers.
In addition, the findings show one in four consumers are “Family Health Influencers,” who are individuals knowledgeable
about OTC medicines and often sought after for advice by others. An important question remains: How do we grow the
number of “Family Health Influencers” across the country to ensure more consumers are educated about how to safely
and effectively use OTC medicines?
Final Insights
Healthcare providers and consumers agree — OTC medicines are the preferred first line of treatment to alleviate a range
of symptoms. Both of these groups revealed that their most important trust drivers include using an OTC medicine they
know will work consistently and that an OTC medicine will be as effective as a prescription medicine for treating minor
ailments. Where consumers and their primary care practitioners differ is on the relative importance of a greater series of
factors that determine trust. Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists have a clearly differentiated “top three” trust factors:
They trust OTC medicines they know will achieve successful patient outcomes; they know will work consistently; they
know will be as effective as a prescription. However, among consumers, there is less differentiation between the top
three factors, suggesting consumers have a more complex equation when considering how they think about trust in OTC
medicines, including a medicine not having many side effects and ones that are recommended by their healthcare
providers.
As the findings show, OTC medicines are highly trusted as safe and effective treatments for many health issues by
consumers, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists alike. The importance of OTC medicines to ensuring a robust self-care
environment for individuals and families to effectively manage their day-to-day health, as well as safe and reliable
treatments for healthcare providers to recommend to their patients, will only continue as the demand for access to
trusted and affordable healthcare options grows.
9
10. IV. The Future of Self-Care: OTC Medicine Outlook
By Scott Melville, President and CEO, Consumer Healthcare Products Association
OTC medicines allow millions of Americans to get well, feel well, and stay well, empowering them to take charge of their
personal health and the health of their families. They are a trusted first line of treatment for everyday relief, providing
consumers with effective solutions to better manage their health by treating their illnesses, alleviating their discomfort,
and letting them go about their daily lives. In fact, by keeping the American workforce healthy and at work, research
from Booz & Co. found that OTC medicines provide $23 billion in potential productivity benefits from avoided doctor’s
office visits and time not having to be away from work.viii
Looking to the future of self-care, we can expect the role of OTC medicines to expand even further as the FDA considers
a new “Prescription-to-OTC switch” paradigm that would expand availability of certain OTC medicines. Switching
medicines from prescription to OTC status is safe, effective, and can save consumers money and time and expand their
access to important medicines. In addition to this movement in the regulatory area, there are several other trends of
note that will impact the future of consumer self-care.
Technology is King
Today we’re seeing growth in retail use of innovative in-store technology, including kiosks, QR codes, and in-store
diagnostics. Beyond reading the package label, consumers are using the Internet and smart phones, apps, and 2D
barcodes to access product information to make health and medicine-purchase decisions. With the advent of new
technology and an increasingly savvy consumer, we now must look at a more progressive regulatory environment — one
that reflects the new decision-making power today’s consumers have. The new world of healthcare can and should
empower consumers with more tools and new technologies to provide them with information beyond the Drug Facts
label and assist them with selecting and using medicines safely.
The Role of the Pharmacist
Over the years, the role of the pharmacist has evolved, and they continue to play an enormous part in the lives of
consumers. Evidence of this can be seen in the Nielsen/IMS finding that multigenerational households, Hispanic
households, and households who care for an adult outside of their home place a high value on pharmacist or in-store
healthcare professional recommendations around how to select and use the OTC medicine right for them. Pharmacists
will remain important allies not only for consumers, but for all of us in the healthcare industry.
In the future, our healthcare system will continue to evolve, and we must advance the ideas that make affordable self-
care solutions more accessible today than any point in our history — to ensure a future where consumers may continue
to reach — in the chill of night, in the haze of dawn, in the congestion of the workday — for OTC medicines and products
they trust and rely on.
10
11. V. Survey Methodology
Nielsen and IMS partnered to conduct surveys of consumers (Nielsen) and healthcare providers (IMS) to understand
what drives both groups to trust OTC medicines.
The surveys were conducted August 20 – September 10, 2012.
Total consumer respondents (n=1,194)
– Hispanic (n=65)
– Non-Hispanic (n=1,129)
Total healthcare provider respondents (n=506)
– Primary care physicians (n=125)
– Nurse practitioners (n=126)
– Pediatricians (n=129)
– Pharmacists (n=126)
For the consumer survey, 1,500 households (HHs) that recorded recent purchases of OTC products on Nielsen’s
Homescan Panel were invited to participate. The primary HH shopper was asked to complete the survey for all members
of the HH.
Consumer respondents included HHs with the following demographics:
HHs with kids <4 (n=60)
HHs with kids 4-11 (n=158)
HHs with kids 12-17 (n=130)
Multi-generational HHs (n=39)
Respondents <65 (n=778)
Respondents 65+ (n=196)
Those who care for an adult outside of their home (n= 343)
Those who purchased an OTC product in the past 6 months (82 percent confirmed)
Both surveys analyzed responses amongst four categories of OTC medicines that were taken, given, or recommended:
Pain relief
Cold, cough, sinus, or flu
Allergy relief
Upset stomach, acid reflux, or antacids
i
Your Health at Hand: Perceptions of over-the-counter medicine in the United States, StrategyOne for CHPA, November 24, 2010.
ii
The Value of OTC Medicine to the United States, Booz & Co., January 2012.
iii
“FDA Considers Expanding Definition of Nonprescription Drugs” Food and Drug Administration, March 2012.
iv
The Value of OTC Medicine to the United States, Booz & Co., January 2012.
v
Your Health at Hand: Perceptions of over-the-counter medicine in the United States, StrategyOne for CHPA, November 24, 2010.
vi
Unlocking America’s Medicine Cabinet, Edelman Berland, February 1, 2013.
vii
1) Shah, S. A., Sander, S., White, C. M., Rinaldi, M., Coleman, C. I. (2007). “Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta
analysis.” The Lancet, 7, 473-480. 2) Rajnik, M. (2012). “Rhinovirus Infection.” Medscape. Retrieved from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/227820-overview 3)
Mansfield, J. E., Callahan, D. (2008). “Benefits of Over-the-Counter Heartburn Medication to Consumers and the Healthcare System.” NielsenHealth, Nielsen Company
(sponsored by CHPA).
viii
The Value of OTC Medicine to the United States, Booz & Co., January 2012.
11