Best otc cough suppressant10/11/2023 We excluded calls about complementary medicines and requests for consumer medicines information leaflets only. We classified calls as ‘cough and cold’ when a query contained a medicine that was from the main ATC group for respiratory system and was available without prescription ( Appendix 1, available online only). 13 The question narrative was also recorded electronically for calls in the last 18 months of this service period. Up to three generic medicines related to the caller’s question could be documented and were classified according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system. The callers’ and patients’ demographics were recorded, together with the enquiry type, prior information received and motivation for the call. Calls were documented using a standardised data collection form. This service was available to consumers nationwide with medication-related questions. We used data from the National Prescribing Service (NPS) Medicines Line collected by pharmacists at Mater Health Services in Brisbane between September 2002 and June 2010. Issues raised by Australian consumers can lead to more targeted and appropriate consumer medicines information for patients and their carers. We interrogated an extensive Australian database with enquiries from consumers about medication to determine gaps in their knowledge and concerns. To provide more relevant patient information about OTC cough and cold medicines, this study aimed to explore consumers’ questions. 9,10 Although previous research focused on beliefs around OTCs for cough and cold medicines, gaps in the perceived knowledge and concerns of consumers are generally unknown. 8Ĭonsumers still seem to be poorly informed about appropriate use, efficacy and safety of OTC medicines for respiratory symptoms despite the risks. 7 OTC drug abuse was most often reported with codeine-based medicine and cough products (particularly dextromethorphan) in an older cohort. For children under 6 years of age, the limited efficacy of certain cough and cold medicine constituents and the associated adverse reactions led the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to advise against their use when they are not on prescription. OTC symptomatic medications for cough and cold raise particular concerns as a result of their potential undesirable effects (eg interactions, side effects and delay of diagnosis). 3–5 However, there is little evidence to support the efficacy of these medicines. More than 40% of parents in Australia purchase over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines for their children. 2 The common cold is typically managed through self-care, comprising use of antihistamines, antitussives, mucolytics/expectorants and decongestants. 1 The high prevalence and notable impact on quality of life with the common cold generates an economic burden greater than any other clinical condition. The common cold contributes to a high burden of disease in the general population despite its minor and temporary effect.
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