title: Over-the-counter histamine2-blocker therapy.
abstract: In determining whether a prescription medication should be granted OTC status, the risks and benefits of treatment with the medication must be weighed. Ultimately, the decision must be made with some degree of uncertainty. Pharmacists must take advantage of this uncertainty to demonstrate their professional expertise and value to society. The Rx-to-OTC switch for H2-blockers may benefit many, although not all, patients with acid peptic complaints, and it offers pharmacists an opportunity to demonstrate their willingness and ability to assist in the use of cost-effective OTC drug therapy.
authors.forename: E R
authors.initials: ER
authors.lastname: Gonzalez
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Grillo
mesh_terms: D004347:Drug Interactions; D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D004381:Duodenal Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy; D004415:Dyspepsia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006635:Histamine H2 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D006635:Histamine H2 Antagonists; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs