Latvia maintains a high level of over-the-counter medication use, with almost half of residents choosing medications without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Against this backdrop, the State Agency of Medicines is resuming the information campaign “Medicines are not candy.”
Residents of Latvia continue to actively use over-the-counter medications, with the consumption of some popular drugs even increasing. This is evidenced by data from the State Agency of Medicines (SAM), which is launching an information campaign in June dedicated to the safe use of medications.
According to the agency's statistics, approximately 50 million packages of medicines were used in Latvia last year. Of these, more than 18.6 million were over-the-counter medications.
In comparison, around 18 million packages of such medicines were sold in 2021, and in recent years, this figure has remained consistently high.
Among the most popular over-the-counter medications are those containing ibuprofen, xylometazoline, and omeprazole.
Specialists pay particular attention to the increase in the use of dexketoprofen — a popular painkiller — as well as nasal drops containing xylometazoline, which are used for nasal congestion.
According to a survey conducted by SAM, 82% of residents of Latvia have taken over-the-counter medications in the past year.
At the same time, almost every second respondent — 47% — admitted that they choose medications independently, without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
What is important to know: even medications sold over the counter can cause side effects, interact with other drugs, and have limitations on the duration of use.
For example, nasal decongestant drops are recommended for limited use, as prolonged use can itself cause chronic nasal congestion.
The agency emphasizes that many people mistakenly believe that over-the-counter medications are completely safe.
That is why the information campaign continues under the slogan: “Medicines are not candy. Read the instructions, follow the recommendations.” Special attention in the campaign will be given to painkillers, nasal drops, antacid medications, cold medicines, and cough syrups.
Specialists remind that the instructions for use should be read each time, even if the medication has been used before. The reason is that manufacturers may update information about contraindications, side effects, or interactions with other drugs.
According to representatives of SAM, responsible use of medications remains one of the most important factors in patient safety.
The campaign is part of a pan-European initiative and is conducted with the support of national medicines regulators from EU countries, as well as the European Medicines Agency and the European Commission.
The main goal is to remind that even familiar medications require careful and conscious use.
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