What major consideration allows a drug to be available over the counter rather than by prescription?
a. Side effects are not induced by the drug.
b. Over-the-counter drugs must cost less than prescription drugs.
c. The drug is so mild that no federal regulations are needed.
d. The drug is safe when the directions for dosage and scheduling are followed.
D
Drugs available over the counter are still subject to federal regulation and do have side effects. Cost is not the most important issue. The main feature that any over-the-counter drug must have before it can be available without a prescription is that harmful effects are not expected when directions for dosage and scheduling are followed.
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