Experts are raising concerns over the growing number of young people in Japan overdosing on over-the-counter (OTC) drugs available at pharmacies.
Several of those rushed to hospitals by ambulance have experienced organ damage, including liver failure, with some cases resulting in death.
Teenagers and young adults in their early 20s are increasingly misusing OTC drugs, particularly cough and cold medicines. On social media, phrases related to overdosing, abbreviated as OD, are becoming more common, with hashtags like "#ODrepo" ("OD report") and "#ODbeginner" gaining traction. Users share their experiences with comments such as, "I can't type properly," "Floating on air" and "It's fun."
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