Abstract

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are the most popular way to self-treat an illness yet they can have detrimental side effects including allergies, organ failure, or death. Adolescents comprise a growing population of those using OTC medications even though chronic use of OTC analgesics has been shown to alter neurological function and can be a possible predictor of harmful behaviors such as alcohol and illegal drug abuse. The purpose of this study was to analyze the patterns of usage of common OTC medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cold medicine, cough drops, and menstrual pain relief medication) among high school females and to identify risk factors that may influence that use. This study consisted of a cross-sectional survey of 517 high school females. Results indicated that 86.85% of the students used at least one OTC medication in the month preceding the survey with a small percentage exceeding the maximum recommended dosage. Usage of ibuprofen was greatest, followed by acetaminophen. Older students were more likely to take OTC medications and to medicate with higher doses. Parental knowledge of teen OTC use was high and there was an inverse relationship between parental knowledge and OTC dosage. These results suggest that adolescent OTC use is widespread, approximates adult usage, and increases with age. A small population of adolescents may be at risk for acute adverse effects from OTC use and a greater number at risk for more chronic effects. Increasing parental awareness of their teenager’s use of OTC medications may decrease these risks. Future studies that investigate the motives for usage are needed to further identify additional physiological and behavioral factors that influence OTC use among high school students.