What is required before administering an over-the-counter topical medication?

Before administering an over-the-counter topical medication, it is crucial that the skin is intact. This is because if the skin has cuts, abrasions, or any open wounds, the medication can be absorbed differently, potentially leading to unwanted effects or extra systemic absorption. When the skin is compromised, it may also increase the risk of infection. Therefore, ensuring the integrity of the skin is an essential step for safe and effective medication administration.

While having a physician's prescription might be a requirement for certain medications or in specific contexts, over-the-counter medications are designed for self-administration and do not always need such authorization. Verbal approval from the patient is important for informed consent, but it does not address the safety concerns associated with skin integrity. The verification of the medication by a pharmacist is typically not necessary for over-the-counter products, as these are readily available for consumer use without a prescription in most situations.