Gaps in OTC Labeling: Potentially Inappropriate Medications for Older Adults

Abstract

As the number of available over-the-counter (OTC) products increases, many older adults are taking health care into their own hands. It is particularly important that the labeling provided with these products is precise, leading to their effective use, especially by older adults. Suboptimally designed medication labels can increase the risk of consumption errors and adverse drug interactions among seniors. This study evaluated whether the warning labels on potentially inappropriate OTC medications are consistent with evidencebased criteria for potentially inappropriate prescribing in older adults. Future action could be taken by the Food and Drug Administration to improve labeling policies.