Over The Counter Drug Facts
It is very important to understand the facts about Over The Counter Medicine. Just because there is less to no restrictions with purchasing over the counter drugs, it does not mean that these drugs are 100% safe without any possibility of being deadly when abused.
For all growing and developing teens, drug abuse in these stage of life is common and causes a lasting impact on each individual. Since the brain is not invulnerable to peer pressure, one may get convinced to try taking over the counter drugs for fun and may lead to addiction, especially for teenagers and early adulthood. About 90 percent of Americans started from time to time smoking, drinking and using over the counter or prescription drugs while being teenagers and now are facing substance abuse problems.
When talking about drug usage, it is very important to know and understand the short and long-term risks and effects of it. A little knowledge about these things can’t hurt but can be essential in making the best decisions or even save lives.
Many drugs are considered safe, but that does not mean they do not have risks especially when being abused.
What is Over-The-Counter (OTC) Drugs
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that are directly available at drug stores. They are also readily available even in supermarkets and convenience stores. It is widely believed that because these drugs do not need any prescription from a doctor, these drugs are less dangerous than prescription drugs. The fact that these over the counter drugs are not exempted on being risky when abused.
The most popular over the counter drugs which is abused wherever country it is being sold are those that contain DXM, which is the main ingredient used for cough medicines, cold medicines, and medicines for early stages of flu. Over the counter drugs such as laxatives, diet pills, and diuretics which are often bought by people for weight loss are also commonly abused. These medications can be potentially fatal or will give the consumer a severe effect over time.
The Risks Of Over The Counter Drugs
Cough Syrups, Tablets, and even in Capsule form that has DXM in them can distort visual perceptions and affect your sense of judgment. If these drugs are taken at a high dose, they can lead to uncoordinated movement, nausea, dizziness, and hallucinations.
For diet pills, one often started by taking just a few pills but eventually increasing the number of dosages until it turns to full-blown addiction. Diet Pills contain ephedrine which is one of the most dangerous stimulants plus other potentially hazardous ingredients are present even in herbal or natural weight-loss products. Hair loss, Unnatural Menstrual Cycle, Deprived Sleep, Insomnia, Urinary Tract Infections, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Blurry Vission, Anxiety and Depression are among the many possible side effects of taking diet pills.
Long-Term Effects of Over The Counter Drugs
DXM when combined with alcohol or any other drugs can lead to overdose and eventually, death.
The stimulants which are found in diet pills are directly affecting the central nervous system. It increases the metabolism and makes your heart beat faster than usual. For someone with a pre-existing heart problem or someone suffering from high blood pressure, taking diet pills can be very dangerous. Though just because you are a healthy person, it does not exempt you from the risk of having a stroke or a heart attack.
Conclusion
Since Over The Counter Drugs are legal and is very easy to find, they are more likely being abused. Like any other medicine, they have all the benefits when taken as prescribed or in moderation, but taking these drugs more than what is needed will always provide an underlying danger. Mixing these drugs with other drugs should not be done as they will severely damage your body permanently or even cause death.
