OTC or ‘Over the Counter’ acid-reducing agents are drugs used by patients, who have complications related to excess acids. Although individuals can buy the agents from various approved pharmacies, they need to seek expert medical assistance before a purchase. The significance of looking for expert medical assistance before buying any OTC acid-reducing agent is necessary because the drugs have different functions and qualities. While some drugs are low in quality and have a number of side effects, others have excellent qualities and give exceptional results when used correctly. Some of the common acid-reducing agents comprise H2 Blockers, Antacids, Foaming Agents, and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI). The main role of these acid-reducing agents is to counter the effects associated with excess secretion of acids. Therefore, it is within this context, that the paper examines the pros and cons of OTC acid-reducing agents.
Proper use of OTC acid-reducing agents have pros that lead to good and satisfying results to individuals suffering from acid related complications such as indigestion, heartburns, or ulcers. According to Kline and Westberg (2011), individuals need to ensure that the OTCs are safe and have the necessary approval before purchasing them. Some of the pros related to the agents are easy administration, minimized side effects, and effectiveness. Essentially, several approved acid-reducing agents are easy to use since they have clear prescriptions that specify the amount of doses that people of different ages and weights need to take. In addition, the agents have minimal side effects as they block acid release or alter the pH level of the stomach and in turn counter the problem of excess acid. Besides the ease in administration and minimal side effects, the agents are also very effective and most of them give results within short periods.
Evidently, OTC acid-reducing agents have a number of cons that occasion from their use. Although some of the shortcomings associated with the agents arise from their improper use or wrong diagnosis, others have direct relationships with the subject agents. Douglas et al (2011) highlight that the challenges associated with wrong diagnosis are minimal since doctors and medical practitioners follow a standard code of conduct that govern their behavior and ensure excellent service delivery. Tolerance, decreased appetite, and the need for regular doses are among the cons initiated by the agents. Continued use of the agents can lead to a state of tolerance, and hence, render the agent ineffective. Therefore, the user does not get the expected results since the body becomes tolerant to the agents. Consequently, some agents such as PPI can at times lead to appetite loss and affect the nutritional state of an individual. The agents can also pose a challenge of regular use as they block a few receptors leaving others, which can initiate a recurrence of the complication.
Currently, over the counter drugs (OTCs) are fast gaining popularity and several people are purchasing them to manage minor medical complications. With the increase in the use of OTC drugs, there is need to educate individuals on their pros and cons. OTC acid-reducing agents have various benefits that accrue from their proper use. These benefits entail easy administration, minimized side effects, and effectiveness. Conversely, the agents have various shortcomings, which hamper their efficiencies. These drawbacks range from tolerance, decreased appetite to the need for regular use. It is paramount to understand that seeking advice from medical experts helps in advancing the pros that accrue from the OTC acid-reducing agents. Expert medical advice helps individuals to make wise buying decisions and use the acid-reducing agents properly.
References
Douglas et al. (2011). Standards of Practice for Culturally Competent Nursing Care: 2011 Update. Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 22 (4), 317-333.
Kline, K., & Westberg, S (2011). Over-the-Counter Medication Use, Perceived Safety, and Decision-Making Behaviors in Pregnant Women. Practice Based Research, 2 (1), 1-14.