Prescription to over-the-counter switches: the physician perspective.

Changes in a drug's availability from prescription only to over-the-counter (OTC) status is of concern to physicians from both public health and individual patient perspectives. While acknowledging the potential benefits of these switches, the author notes important caveats, including the need for scientifically derived pediatric dosages; information in the medical record regarding OTC use that allows cohesive monitoring; clarity and precision in labeling for consumers; and continued coverage of such drugs for medically indigent patient populations. Current actions by physician organizations are noted.