Assessment of Over-the-Counter Medication Misuse Among Youth: A Public Health Concern

The misuse of over‐the‐counter (OTC) medications among youth represents a growing public health challenge that intersects issues of accessibility, health literacy, and behavioral risk. This manuscript examines the prevalence, determinants, and implications of OTC medication misuse in adolescents and young adults, drawing upon studies and data published up to 2017. Through a review of extant literature, a survey-based methodology, and qualitative analysis, the research identifies key risk factors—including socio-economic status, peer influence, and gaps in regulatory frameworks—that contribute to misuse. Findings indicate that misuse is associated with both intentional abuse for psychoactive effects and unintentional overdose due to misinterpretation of dosing guidelines. The study underscores the need for integrated public health interventions, including educational programs and regulatory policy reforms, to mitigate this issue. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies and intervention-based trials to assess the long-term impact of educational strategies on reducing misuse among youth.