Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q8

Doctor Recommends Over-the-Counter Medicine at Prescription Strength: is it recordable?

Verdict: Recordable
Published 2020-08-09

Question

An employee is injured at work and sees a doctor. The doctor provides no treatment but recommends the employee takes over-the-counter ibuprofen at a dose of 800mg every 8 hours. Is it recordable?

Answer

YES, it is recordable. Even though the doctor recommended using OTC ibuprofen, it was recommended at a prescription strength. Ibuprofen taken at a level of over 400mg every 6-8 hours is considered prescription strength.

https://www.osha.gov/node/999878189

Illustration for the scenario: Doctor Recommends Over-the-Counter Medicine at Prescription Strength
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This is guidance based on 29 CFR Part 1904 and OSHA letters of interpretation. Facts and details may be altered or fictional. As specified by OSHA, the employer is responsible for the final recordability determination.