Question: For medications such as Ibuprofen that are available in both prescription and non-prescription form, what is considered to be prescription strength? How is an employer to determine whether a non-prescription medication has been recommended at prescription strength for purposes of section 1904.7(b)(5)(i)(C)(ii)(A)?

Answer: The prescription strength of such medications is determined by the measured quantity of the therapeutic agent to be taken at one time, i.e., a single dose. The single dosage is based upon the label of the over-the-counter medication being taken by the employee. If a physician or licensed health care professional prescribes anything greater than the single dose, as is described on the over-the-counter medication label, then this will be considered prescription strength and medical treatment.

Standard Number: 1904.7, 1904 - Table of Contents