Abuse of over-the-counter medications is a growing concern in Colombia.
Colombia News.
In Colombia, regulation of the sale of medicines is the responsibility of the National Food and Drug Surveillance Institute, INVIMA, and other health institutions.
Although over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription, there are significant risks from improper use.
Abuse of over-the-counter medications is a growing concern in Colombia.
Types of abuse include taking doses other than those prescribed, using it for recreational purposes, and mixing it to make unauthorized products.
This behavior, in addition to being dangerous, highlights the need for greater awareness of the risks associated with these drugs.
“Increased consumption of anxiolytics and antidepressants”
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide during the pandemic.
In Colombia, there are no existing data on the consumption of anxiolytic substances, but previous studies show an alarming increase.
The president of the Colombian Association of Scientific Societies has urged people to avoid self-medication and limit the use of these drugs without a prescription.
It is important to note that self-medication can be dangerous.
Anxiolytics should always be used under the supervision and prescription of a health professional, as abuse of these medications can lead to unwanted side effects and dependence.
1. Benzodiazepines:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
2. Benzodiazepine Analogs:
- Zolpidem (Ambien) – Although primarily used to treat insomnia, it has anti-anxiety effects in some cases.
3. Antidepressants:
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
4. Buspirone:
«Ains and its dangers,
Common over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers (NSAIDs) pose significant risks.
Studies have linked its indiscriminate use to complications in patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney and liver failure and other conditions. Furthermore, it has been noted that these drugs may represent up to 11% of drug-related hospitalizations.
«Diane Alert on 35,
For example, the National University condemned that a drug that can cause death is still available in various drug stores in the country.
This is Diane 35, which is used for a certain type of acne and polycystic ovary syndrome, but it was withdrawn from the French market as a precaution after it was found that four women died from thromboembolism due to it. Will be related to intake. pills.
The drug, which, according to studies, may be related to the development of thrombosis, is used as a contraceptive in Colombia, despite the fact that this indication is not approved by the National Institute for Drug Surveillance, the National University reports. Has been done and food, invima, which increases its consumption and indiscriminate sale.
The lack of controls in the marketing of dangerous drugs poses a serious threat to public health, calling for immediate action by regulatory authorities and greater responsibility on the part of consumers and distributors.
They believe that in Colombia these drugs are sweet and extremely dangerous @petrogustavo @MinSaludCol @policiabogota @PoliciaAntiNar @fiscalaliacole pic.twitter.com/uBPHtcyGnD
– Rumiarte (@sanjedrasus) 21 June 2023
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