Implications of the reclassification of drugs from prescription-only to over-the-counter status.

More than 200 over-the-counter (OTC) products and dosage forms were formerly restricted to prescription use. The reclassification process is gaining momentum; another 50 or so prescription drugs are targeted for transfer to OTC status. The transfer of drugs from prescription to OTC status is a logical and systematic development of today's health-care environment. The availability of safe and effective OTC drug products is sure to promote the general health of the American populace and to benefit members of the health-care system across the board.