GPhC OTC & Self-Care 4

Question 1

A customer requests treatment for cold sores on their lip. Which OTC product is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Aciclovir 5% cream (Zovirax) applied at first sign of tingling

Answer

Aciclovir 5% cream is the antiviral OTC treatment for herpes labialis (cold sores). It must be applied at the earliest prodromal sign (tingling) for maximum effect, before vesicle formation.

Question 2

A mother asks if her 2-year-old can take OTC cough medicine. What is the correct advice?

Accepted Answer

OTC cough and cold medicines are not recommended for children under 6 years

Answer

MHRA guidance states that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be used in children under 6 years. Most are ineffective and may cause harm. Supportive care is recommended.

Question 3

Which OTC product is used for the treatment of scabies?

Accepted Answer

Permethrin 5% cream

Answer

Permethrin 5% cream (Lyclear Cream) is first-line OTC treatment for scabies. The whole body (excluding face) must be treated and all household contacts treated simultaneously.

Question 4

A patient taking SSRIs asks about taking St John's Wort for additional mood support. What is the critical interaction?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin syndrome risk — both increase serotonin, a potentially life-threatening combination

Answer

St John's Wort has serotonergic activity. Combined with an SSRI, it can precipitate serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, clonus, agitation, tachycardia), which can be life-threatening.

Question 5

What is the OTC age restriction for selling aspirin in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Not recommended under 16 years due to Reye's syndrome risk

Answer

Aspirin is contraindicated in children under 16 years (under 18 in some guidelines) due to the risk of Reye's syndrome — a rare but potentially fatal condition causing liver and brain damage.

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GPhC OTC & Self-Care 4