The Abuse and Misuse of Over-the-Counter Medicines During COVID-19
Ahmad Z. Al Meslamani, Derar H. Abdel‐Qader
Abstract
The abuse and misuse of OTC medicines is a common problem in community pharmacies and is expected to escalate during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is limited research on the patterns, causes, and consequences of these incidents during the pandemic. This article aims to provide evidence-based insights into the potential impact of COVID-19 on the abuse and misuse of OTC medicines, and suggest strategies for reducing these occurrences for pharmacy practitioners and healthcare managers.
Topics & Concepts
MedicinePandemicPharmacyCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Over-the-counter2019-20 coronavirus outbreakMedical emergencySevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)PsychiatryHealth careFamily medicineNursingMedical prescriptionDiseaseVirologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)Economic growthPathologyOutbreakEconomicsPharmaceutical Practices and Patient OutcomesSafe Handling of Antineoplastic Drugs