Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and Counseling Flashcards
6 cards from real Pharmacy practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and Counseling flashcards as text
A pregnant patient asks about safe OTC options for heartburn. Which is most appropriate?
Answer: Calcium carbonate antacids (Tums) in moderation
Calcium carbonate antacids (Tums) are generally considered safe in pregnancy and provide the added benefit of supplemental calcium. Aspirin and high-dose sodium bicarbonate are avoided; ranitidine was recalled in 2020.
Which OTC sleep aid ingredient is the same as a common antihistamine?
Answer: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl/ZzzQuil)
Diphenhydramine HCl, the active ingredient in many OTC sleep aids (ZzzQuil, Unisom SleepTabs, Benadryl), is an H1 antihistamine that causes sedation as a side effect.
A patient with diabetes asks for an OTC cold remedy. Which ingredient should they be most cautious about?
Answer: High fructose corn syrup/sugar-containing liquid formulations
Many liquid cough/cold syrups contain significant amounts of sugar (or alcohol) that can raise blood glucose. Diabetic patients should select sugar-free formulations or use non-liquid dosage forms.
Emergency contraception (Plan B/levonorgestrel) is available OTC without age restriction. Counseling should include that it is MOST effective when taken:
Answer: Within 24 hours; effectiveness decreases significantly by 72 hours
Levonorgestrel EC is most effective within 24 hours (95% effective), declining to ~58% by 49–72 hours. It is approved up to 72 hours but should be taken as soon as possible.
Which OTC topical analgesic works by depleting substance P from sensory nerve fibers?
Answer: Capsaicin cream
Capsaicin binds to TRPV1 receptors on sensory nerves, initially causing burning, then depleting substance P — a pain neurotransmitter — leading to long-term pain relief with regular use.
Which statement about OTC nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is correct?
Answer: NRT can be started before or on the quit date; combination NRT is often more effective
Current evidence supports starting NRT before the quit date to reduce cravings. Combination NRT (long-acting patch + short-acting gum/lozenge) is more effective than monotherapy.