Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are drugs you can buy without a prescription. Some relieve aches, pains and itches; some prevent or cure conditions such as tooth decay and athlete's foot; others help manage recurring problems like migraines and allergies.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration decides whether a medicine is safe and effective enough to sell over the counter. That lets you take a more active part in your own health care — but you need to take care to avoid mistakes.
Follow the label
Follow the instructions on the drug label. If you don't understand them, ask your pharmacist or health care provider. Don't take an OTC medicine for longer, or in bigger doses, than the label recommends.
The risks
- Interactions: the medicine could interact with other medicines, supplements, foods or drinks.
- Medical conditions: some medicines are not right for people with certain conditions — people with high blood pressure, for example, should avoid some decongestants.
- Allergies: some people are allergic to certain medicines.
- Pregnancy: many medicines are not safe in pregnancy. If you are pregnant, check with your health care provider before taking any medicine.
Children
Be careful when giving medicine to children, and make sure you give the right dose. For liquid medicines, don't use a kitchen spoon — use a measuring spoon or a dosing cup marked in teaspoons.
When to get help
If you have been taking an OTC medicine and your symptoms don't go away, contact your health care provider.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Over-the-Counter Medicines," drawing on the Food and Drug Administration. https://medlineplus.gov/overthecountermedicines.html
- Rewritten in hubnx's own words.
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