OTC & Self-Care Flashcards

A patient requests Sumatriptan OTC for a migraine. Which patient would NOT be eligible under pharmacy protocols?

Answer: A patient with no previous medical diagnosis of migraine

OTC sumatriptan (Imigran Recovery) is only for adults with a confirmed prior medical diagnosis of migraine. It is not for use in patients whose headaches have not been medically diagnosed.

Which OTC product provides relief for allergic rhinitis symptoms?

Answer: Beclometasone nasal spray (Beconase) or loratadine tablets

Intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Beconase — beclometasone 50 mcg/dose) are first-line for moderate-severe allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines (loratadine) help with sneezing and itching.

A customer reports symptoms of cystitis (burning urination, frequency). Which patient should be referred without OTC treatment?

Answer: A pregnant woman with urinary symptoms

Urinary symptoms in pregnancy require immediate GP referral. Pregnancy increases risk of ascending UTI, pyelonephritis, and premature labour. OTC urinary alkalising agents are not appropriate without GP review.

What is the recommended dose of vitamin D supplementation for adults in the UK during winter?

Answer: 10 micrograms (400 IU) daily from October to March

PHE and NICE recommend 10 mcg (400 IU) vitamin D daily for all adults from October to March when sunlight is insufficient for cutaneous synthesis. Higher-risk groups are advised year-round supplementation.

A pharmacist is asked to recommend treatment for mild-to-moderate psoriasis on the scalp. Which OTC product is appropriate?

Answer: Coal tar shampoo (Alphosyl, T-Gel) or salicylic acid preparations

Coal tar preparations reduce keratinocyte proliferation and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them suitable OTC options for mild scalp psoriasis. Salicylic acid helps remove scale.

A customer with hypertension asks about using an OTC decongestant nasal spray. What advice should be given?

Answer: Oral decongestants should be avoided; short-term nasal decongestant sprays may be considered but use with caution

Oral sympathomimetic decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) raise blood pressure and are contraindicated in hypertension. Topical nasal sprays have less systemic absorption but short-term use with caution is generally preferred.