Consumers Want More Choices in
Over-the-Counter Medications

National Consumers League Releases New Consumer Surveys at FDA Hearing

      WASHINGTON, DC...The National Consumers League released results from two surveys on consumers’ views of over-the-counter medications at the Food and Drug Administration hearings June 28, 2000. The first survey asked 1007 adults over the age of 35 who were very or somewhat concerned about their cholesterol level whether they thought it was a good idea to have a low-dose, nonprescription cholesterol treatment. Of the 65% that believed it was a good idea, 30% cited cost as the reason, 22% believed it would be more readily available, 20% said it would help to lower cholesterol and 13% said they wouldn’t have to see a doctor.

    The second survey asked 1010 adults more general questions about over-the-counter medications and found that consumers are making more healthcare decisions on their own (58%), they are relying on over-the-counter medications to treat themselves for minor health ailments (57%), and they would like to see some of their prescription drugs available over-the-counter (65%).

NCL warned FDA that if prescription drugs are made available over-the-counter, precautions should be taken to make sure consumers continue to see their health care provider, that they can understand and read labels and packaging inserts and that warnings, precautions and side effects should be clearly stated on the label.

“Consumers overwhelmingly want this choice,” said Linda Golodner, NCL president, “But if FDA decides to make these drugs available over-the-counter, consumers must know to read the label, talk to their health care providers, and understand the warnings.” Golodner called for ongoing consumer education to ensure that consumers understand the warnings and are taking their medications correctly. 

For more survey results, click below.

• Consumers attitudes toward over-the-counter medications

• Consumers' attitudes toward cholesterol-lowering medications

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer organization. The NCL's three-pronged approach of research, education and advocacy has made it an effective representative and source of information for consumers and workers. NCL is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to representing consumers on issues of concern.