The Dangers of Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications can also be called non-prescription medicines. Medicines like these are very common and can be purchased anytime without the doctor’s prescription.

It is normal for people to haste to the nearest pharmacy to buy some medicines for immediate treatment of a symptom. Perhaps you have already ingested these types of medicines yourself.

The safety of taking these medicines is guaranteed, however when these medicines are taken without proper consideration, they can be dangerous. They can also lead to serious injury or even death. It is best to be mindful of the possible side effects in every over-the-counter medication we purchase.

• Acetaminophen

  Acetaminophen also called as “Paracetamol”. They are commonly used to relieve pain in the body. “Paracetamol” is also a medication that is used to treat fever.

  However, considering its side effects, the list goes very long. Some specific side effects such as feeling nauseous, wanting to vomit, and feeling light-headed can be evident after taking improper dosage of this medicine.

  Excessive intake of Acetaminophen can also lead to liver damage. This is possible when there is no control over alcohol intake. Records show that a number of people killed by overdose are linked to “Acetaminophen.”

• NSAID

  NSAID stands for Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs. Generally, NSAID functions the same way as Acetaminophen. Both types of medicines are created to alleviate pain. But unlike acetaminophen, NSAID’s primary function is to decrease the pain inside the body.

  Another interesting fact is that NSAIDs process naturally inside the body and not through the liver. Its “Anti-Inflammatory” properties make them unique as it addresses directly to the needs of the body.

However, when medicines like these are ingested in wrong considerations and beyond the daily dosage, possible side effects will manifest: heartburn, stomach pains, headaches, and dizziness are common. Allergic reactions in the skin can also be evident. If these side effects happen to you, please visit our Walk in Clinic in Guelph, Ontario, and we will make the right interventions for your condition immediately!

Just because over-the-counter medicines do not require doctor’s prescription do not mean they are harmless. That is why it is important to always check the label of the medicines first upon purchase.

We are most pleasured at Arkell Walk-In Clinic & Arkell Pharmacy to assist you with your health and medical needs. If you want to know more about our Medical Services in Ontario, you can visit us at www.arkellmedical.ca.