Argentina moves 10 drugs to over-the-counter status, expert warns of risks

Argentina's National Administration of Medicines, Foods, and Medical Technology (Anmat) has moved ten medications, previously requiring a prescription, to over-the-counter status. This decision aims to improve access to these drugs in pharmacies but introduces potential changes in insurance coverage and necessitates greater caution from consumers.

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That they are over-the-counter does not mean these medications are harmless or have no adverse effects.

Medical specialist Jorge Tartaglione explained that making these drugs freely available does not render them innocuous. Despite being approved and having undergone safety evaluations, they can still produce adverse effects, interact with other medications, or conceal illnesses that require professional medical attention. "That they are over-the-counter does not mean these medications are harmless or have no adverse effects," Tartaglione stated.

He also highlighted the potential economic impact, as these medications might lose the discounts previously provided by social security programs and private health insurance companies. This shift could significantly affect individuals who rely on these products regularly. Tartaglione cautioned that easier access should not encourage unsupervised use.

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One goes to the pharmacy, says they have allergies, buys a medication, and stops consulting. They might be covering something else up.

The expert pointed to self-diagnosis as a primary risk, where individuals might treat symptoms without consulting a doctor, potentially delaying the diagnosis of more serious conditions. "One goes to the pharmacy, says they have allergies, buys a medication, and stops consulting. They might be covering something else up," he exemplified. He also stressed the danger of drug interactions, where over-the-counter drugs can alter the effects of other prescribed or even natural remedies. "Self-medication is very dangerous," Tartaglione concluded, advising consultation with a professional even for medications available without a prescription.

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Self-medication is very dangerous.