OTC pain relievers are often misused

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications are sometimes used rather carelessly by people, to the point where they're popping Tylenol or Advil every time they stub their toe. Think I'm exaggerating? Maybe a little, but not completely.

A survey conducted by the American College of Emergency Physician and the Emergency Nurses Association revealed that one in two Americans misuse common OTC pain relievers. Here are just a few of examples of what the survey found:

• Almost half of the respondents had taken pills more frequently than recommended
• Most respondents had taken more pills per dose than is recommended
• Sixty-six percent of respondents did not read the label the last time they took an OTC pain reliever
• Many never spoke with their doctor or pharmacist about the OTC medication they were taking