Why Don't Prescription Skin Creams Exist as OTC?

Question

If they're not potentially addictive and aren't consumed the same way as pills, then why are certain skin creams not OTC?

Answer 1

Because of their side effects or dosing requirements, which need to be supervised by a physician.

Answer 2

Many current OTC used to be prescription-only.  As they are deemed to be safe for unsupervised use, many are turned into OTC.  

Answer 3

Because they can still have potentially serious side effects. For example, the tratment for scabies is a 5% permethrin cream, a possible side effect is seizures.

Also, people would try to diagnose and treat themselves when they may or may not have the skin condition they think they have, and while a lot of skin conditions may look similar the treatment will be different depending on the cause of the condition.  

Answer 4

Prescription creams contain medications that are still absorbed by the body.  While they may not be addictive, they can certainly reach toxic concentrations in the body if not used carefully and correctly.  Things like hydrocortisone creams can upset the blood sugar levels of a diabetic, for instance- and should be used cautiously.  Remember, medication doesn't have to be taken by mouth to be absorbed by the body, and absorption can be influenced by many factors.  That is why some of the creams are not available over the counter.