Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications Tool Kit ... - Home

Discussion Answers
What ingredients are commonly used in over-the-counter drugs?
Alcohol is commonly used in nighttime cold formulas and other cold remedies. Caffeine is frequently
used as the main active ingredient in stimulants that promise to help keep you awake.
Transit employees should be careful to read all labels to find out the content of the drugs they
are taking, and the possible effects of safe job performance.
How are over-the-counter drugs misused or abused?
OTCs are abused when the directions are not followed, taking the drug when it is not necessary,
taking too much of the drug, or taking it for too long. Other forms of abuse are ignoring warning
labels and combining the use of drugs. Many people misuse OTCs because they are ignorant
of the drugs purpose, ingredients, and side effects.
How can a responsible transit professional avoid inadvertently misusing an OTC?
Read the label carefully, and ask a physician or pharmacist of the effects of the drug. Let them
know of your job duties and ask them specifically how your performance might be affected.
Don’t be fooled by thinking over-the-counter drugs are harmless.
Why do people use inhalants?
Inhalants are readily available and are inexpensive, therefore, making them very attractive to
those with little money or limited access to other drugs. Also, many people are not aware of the
risks involved.
46 Over-the-Counter Drugs