Drugs that can be purchased without a prescription as part of self-care are

Over-the-counter drugs

Explanation:

Drugs are generally classified into two major categories based on prescription: Prescription only (Rx only) and Over-the-counter (OTC) or Nonprescription drugs.

Self care is any act taking by an individual to improve his/her physical, mental, and emotional health. It can involve treatment of a minor illness without supervision of a health care professional, eating well balanced diet, regular body exercise etc.

OTC drugs are drugs sold directly to a consumer without a prescription from a health care practitioner as opposed to prescription drugs, which requires a valid prescription to be tendered before being sold.

OTC drugs can be provided right off the shelves at a medicine store- without a visit with a doctor or a consulting pharmacist. OTC drugs are not intended for specific individuals as opposed to prescription drugs which should only be used by individuals it was prescribed to.

OTC drugs are usually safe and effective when the directions on the label are followed and as directed by a health practitioner. Although OTC drugs are available without consulting with a prescriber or pharmacist, the patient needs to be aware that these drugs still carry a risk. Some OTC drugs could cause drug interactions with prescription medications or cause more adverse effects. It is important to mention to a prescriber or pharmacist about all of the OTC drugs being used and to follow the recommended dosing instructions on the label.

OTC drugs are used to treat a variety of symptoms due to illness including pain, coughs and colds, diarrhea, heartburn, constipation, and acne etc.

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