Final answer:
Hydrogen peroxide is the OTC product commonly used to induce vomiting, often in pets, but its use in humans is rarely recommended due to potential risks and should only be done under professional guidance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Inducing Vomiting with Over-the-Counter Products
A student inquired, "Which of the following over-the-counter (OTC) products is commonly used to induce vomiting?" The answer is A) Hydrogen peroxide. This substance is occasionally used to induce vomiting in certain cases of poisoning, typically in household pets under the guidance of a veterinary professional. It works by irritating the stomach lining and triggering the vomiting reflex. However, its use in humans is rarely recommended due to the potential risks and complications.
It's important to emphasize that inducing vomiting should not be done without professional medical advice. In contrast, other substances mentioned, like apple cider vinegar and Alka-Seltzer, do not have emetic properties and are used for other health-related purposes, such as for their general health benefits or to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, respectively.
As mentioned in one of the reference questions, hydrogen peroxide is widely used as a household disinfectant and is known to break down into water and oxygen gas. In the medical context, it is essential to follow appropriate guidelines and seek proper treatment for any condition that may warrant the use of such substances.