US Pharm. 2009;34(1`2):10.
Scottsdale, AZ — A recent survey of 505 pharmacists found that 75% of pharmacists say most patients should purchase OTC cold and flu products at the first sign of symptoms, while only 26% of their patients take this proactive approach. Nine out of 10 of the surveyed pharmacists believe it is important for a patient to seek treatment early to help shorten the duration and severity of a cold. The survey also found that 85% of pharmacists agree the economy has increased patient questions about OTC products, and that 81% of pharmacists agree that more patients are opting to purchase OTC medications versus filling prescriptions for economic reasons. The survey was sponsored by Matrixx Initiatives, Inc., an OTC health care company and makers of Zicam products.
