OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS (OTC)

Medicines affect children and even grown-ups in an unexpected way. Individuals in these ages should take special consideration when taking over-the-counter medicines.

TYPES

The following illnesses can be treated utilizing over the counter medications:

• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Stomach upset
• Skin rashes and itching

SYMPTOMS

An extensive variety of signs and symptoms can occur when an individual has an overdose, and reacts in an unexpected way. Signs and symptoms rely upon the type of drug and certain factors, including when the drug was taken.

General symptoms of a medication overdose may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal spasms
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance
• Seizures
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Breathing problems
• Internal bleeding
• Hallucinations
• Visual problems
• Snoring profoundly
• Turning blue
• Coma

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis of overdose relies on the medication taken, its dose and the impact on the individual. This may rely upon when and how the medication was taken, what else it was taken with and any medical complications causing the overdose.

TREATMENT

In cases of overdose, the health care provider will:

• Perform a full evaluation which may include blood tests, observation and mental assessments
• Remove the medication from your body by giving activated charcoal, which binds the medication so the body can’t absorb it
• Administer an antitoxin
• A follow-up meeting with your specialist is necessary for everybody who has an overdose