OTC AND Rx drugs List as many OTC and prescription drugs as you can…List as many OTC and prescription drugs as you can… What do they do?What do they do?

Over the Counter (OTC) and Prescription Drugs OTC and prescription drugs are two kinds of MedicinesOTC and prescription drugs are two kinds of Medicines –Most medicines do at least one of four things: They battle bacteria and other organisms that cause disease They battle bacteria and other organisms that cause disease They protect the body from diseaseThey protect the body from disease They influence the circulatory systemThey influence the circulatory system They affect the nervous systemThey affect the nervous system

OTC drugs OTC drugs are medicines you can buy without a doctor’s prescription.OTC drugs are medicines you can buy without a doctor’s prescription. Three of the most common OTC drugs are:Three of the most common OTC drugs are: –Analgesics: relieve pain –Sedatives: slow down body functioning and make you sleepy –Stimulants: they make you feel more alert.

Prescription Drugs These drugs are usually more powerful than OTC drugsThese drugs are usually more powerful than OTC drugs –A prescription always has a required dose—the correct amount of the drug to be taken. –Prescription drugs can be abused. And can become habit forming. –It is Exremely important that you follow the instructions on the label of any Rx medicine.

OTC drugs Most people think that OTC drugs are completely safe. No drug is free of risk.Most people think that OTC drugs are completely safe. No drug is free of risk. –Aspirin: can lead to stomach irritation –Antihistamines: can cause drowsiness –Acetaminophen: may cause liver damage in high doses HANDOUT: Some common drug types and their effectsHANDOUT: Some common drug types and their effects

ACTIVITY Reading labels:Reading labels: Get into groups of 4-5Get into groups of 4-5 Read the directions on the worksheet.Read the directions on the worksheet.