New OTC drugs and devices 2002: a selective review

To create a heightened awareness of two consumer issues confronting pharmacists in the self-care arena--consumers' need for accurate information about over-the-counter (OTC) products and consumers' attitudes and beliefs about OTC drugs--and to educate pharmacists about newly introduced nonprescription products, home screening devices, and home accessories.

Recently published clinical and pharmaceutical industry literature and survey results from the National Council on Patient Information and Education.

Although changes have been made to labeling for OTC products to heighten consumers' awareness of the dangers associated with misuse of these products, consumers need the expertise of the pharmacist to guide them toward effective and safe self-care. It remains critical that pharmacists be knowledgeable about the numerous nonprescription products that become available on the U.S. market each year and take the initiative to counsel patients appropriately on the benefits and risks associated with their use.

Patients will continue to place an increasing emphasis on self-care. To assist them, pharmacists must remain up-to-date on trends and have an understanding of the nuances of consumers' behavior and thinking in relation to OTC products and their use. The new nonprescription medications and diagnostic screening devices discussed in this review article represent valuable additions to the growing array of self-care products.