OTC & Self-Care Flashcards

Which OTC product is recommended for the treatment of haemorrhoids (piles)?

Answer: Anusol cream (zinc oxide + bismuth) for symptomatic relief

Anusol products (containing zinc oxide, bismuth subgallate) provide astringent and soothing relief for haemorrhoid symptoms. Low-potency topical steroids are for short-term use only; lifestyle advice is also important.

A pharmacist suspects a customer is buying excessive quantities of pseudoephedrine-containing cold remedies. What should they do?

Answer: Refuse the sale, record the incident, and consider reporting to police if diversion for drug manufacture is suspected

Pseudoephedrine is a precursor for methamphetamine synthesis. Pharmacists have a legal and professional duty to refuse suspicious sales, record concerns, and report suspected diversion to police or NHS.

What is the maximum OTC dose of loperamide for acute diarrhoea in adults?

Answer: 16 mg per day (initial 4 mg then 2 mg after each loose stool)

OTC loperamide: initial dose 4 mg, then 2 mg after each loose stool. Maximum 16 mg/day OTC (8 mg/day for the elderly). Use should not exceed 48 hours without medical review.

A patient asks for antihistamine eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis. Which OTC product is appropriate?

Answer: Sodium cromoglicate 2% (Opticrom) or ketotifen (Zaditen) eye drops

Sodium cromoglicate 2% (mast cell stabiliser) and ketotifen (antihistamine + mast cell stabiliser) eye drops are appropriate OTC options for allergic conjunctivitis.

A customer who is 8 weeks pregnant asks for advice on safe pain relief. What should be recommended?

Answer: Paracetamol at lowest effective dose — avoid NSAIDs, especially in third trimester

Paracetamol is the safest OTC analgesic in pregnancy. NSAIDs (including ibuprofen) are contraindicated in the third trimester (risk of premature ductus arteriosus closure) and avoided in early pregnancy if possible.

Which OTC antacid ingredient is most likely to cause constipation?

Answer: Aluminium hydroxide

Aluminium-containing antacids cause constipation by reducing GI motility. Magnesium-containing antacids tend to have a laxative effect. Products combining both can balance these effects.