Over-the-counter medicines

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Drugs

Medications to have at home

For common minor symptoms and illnesses, you can buy over-the-counter medicines at a store without a prescription from your health care provider.

Important tips for using over-the-counter medications:

• Always follow the printed directions and warnings. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor before starting a new over-the-counter drug.
• Know what you are taking. Always look at the list of ingredients. Select products with the fewest number of ingredients needed to treat your symptoms.
• All medications become less effective (expire) over time and should be replaced. Check the expiration date before using any product.
• Store medicines in a cool, dry area. The heat from kitchens and the moisture from bathrooms decrease the effectiveness of medications.
• Store all medications out of the reach of children. See: Storing medicine safely

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Women should consult their doctor before taking over-the-counter medicines while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Any drug or medicine may have a different effect in children and older adults. People who are in these age groups should take special care when taking over-the-counter medicines.

Below are some examples of over-the-counter medicines for common symptoms. This list does not include every medicine. It also does not mean that some of the brands listed are better than others. Many of these medicines have less expensive store brands.

Always call your health care provider first if:

• Your symptoms are severe
• You are not sure what is wrong with you
• You have a long-term (chronic) medical condition or you are taking other prescription medications

ACHES, PAINS, AND HEADACHES

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with your headache, arthritis pain, sprains, and other minor joint and muscle problems.

• Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) can be used first. Do not take more than 4 grams (4,000 mg) on any one day.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). You can buy some NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, without a prescription.