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- Over the Counter Drugs -

Over the Counter Drugs

Many drugs available over-the-counter (OTC) can be addictive to different degrees. In fact, some of them are commonly used as ingredients in the production of illicit drugs. For example, cough and cold medications are used to produce illegal versions of amphetamines. Others may be used directly, such as mouthwashes and diet aids, because they contain drugs that produce pleasurable effects. Although these drugs have negative effects, people ignore those effects in an attempt to get the high that the drugs produce.

Some addicts and alcoholics may resort to over-the-counter substitutes when trying to quit their original substance of abuse. For example, an alcoholic might give up alcohol but start abusing mouthwash or cough syrups. These kinds of substitutions are part of the cycle of chemical addiction.

Methods of Use

Over-the-counter drugs are taken by various means, but they usually are orally ingested.

Types

Over-the-counter drugs that can be abused include alcohol, caffeine, antihistamines, decongestants, cough syrups, pain relievers, mouthwashes, sleeping aids, and diet aids.

Withdrawal

The presence of withdrawal symptoms depends on the individual drug.

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