Self-medication is an important pillar of healthcare

With a prevalence of 14 – 30% in Spain, constipation impacts quality of life (QoL) and general well-being in the affected population. A survey conducted through Spanish pharmacies among 100 consumers who purchased Macrogol  4000 to alleviate constipation symptoms, evaluated their perception on QoL improvement and effectiveness on constipation symptoms. After 14 days of treatment, a ...

The efficacy of 1,8-cineole in treating acute rhinosinusitis has been repeatedly demonstrated in randomised-controlled double-blind trials [1, 2]. Now, a non-interventional trial under everyday conditions has shown that significantly greater improvements in quality of life can be achieved when taking cineole capsules – on their own or combined with other drugs – than with monotherapy using deconge ...

Switches of oral antihistamines (OAHs) from prescription drug to over-the-counter (OTC) status may raise safety concerns due to misuse or abuse, as seen with first-generation antihistamines. A real-world study by Carnovale et al. [1] showed no difference in number of adverse events after switching second generation OAHs to OTC, indicating a similar safety profile and supporting the use of larger p ...

Urticaria is an inflammatory skin disorder primarily resulting from activation of cutaneous mast cells. The released inflammatory mediators and histamine are responsible for the development of wheals and/or angioedema. Current guidelines recommend non-sedating second generation H1 antihistamines such as fexofenadine hydrochloride as first-line therapy. A recent review by Ansotegui et al. provides ...

Functional abdominal cramping pain (FACP) is a common but presently under-recognised condition. Practical recommendations for FACP diagnosis and management are lacking. A recent publication based on a consensus from an international panel of experts, suggested algorithms meant to assist physicians, pharmacists, and patients to follow a rational management strategy for the improvement of FACP.