Medicines, devices and products that are over-the-counter (OTC) are available without a prescription. Many of these items can be purchased from the pharmacy or convenience store right away. You are already familiar with popular OTC medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but there are plenty of other medications you can buy even without a prescription.
There are certain OTC medications and products are made available because they are considered safe, reliable and convenient to use. The FDA determines which OTC products are available and guarantees that it is easy to recognize the labeling to avoid misuse. In order to buy the product, some OTC products require a photo ID and some have age requirements. For medications that may be abused, such as certain types of cough medicines, these restrictions are most common.
These are the most common OTC medications treat the following sickness:
- Common cold
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Cough
- Allergies
Eye Problems
There are several types of eye drops sold over the counter, and in the past few years, a few of them have only been OTC available. They are used to help relieve itchy eyes. The drops work within minutes and will offer hours of relief.
Bladder control
There is a certain OTC prescription such as Oxytrol, which in women may provide relief from an overactive bladder. It comes as a topical patch and includes oxybutynin. Previously, this medication needed a prescription, but OTC has been available since 2013.
Motion Sickness
There are several OTC anti-nausea medications to avoid motion sickness. These medicines usually include meclizine, used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, or dizziness.
Urinary Pain Relief Medicines
There is an OTC medication that will benefit if you have discomfort from a urinary tract infection (UTI). It contains an antibiotic and a pain killer also. The medication helps stop the progression of a UTI and relieves from associated pain and burning.
Breathing problems
There is an OTC inhaler that can be used for the immediate relief of any asthma symptoms if you have breathing problems. There is also available treatment such as Primatene Mist, it is an OTC that can aid with wheezing, tightness of the chest, and shortness of breath.
Currently, most other inhalers need a prescription. But oral medications that assist with breathing are also available. They also tend to alleviate the effects of mild asthma. To help the cough, they can even help loosen thin mucus.
Fever Medications
A fever is an indication that the body, like a cold or influenza, is fighting off an infection. These are available in OTC that can help relieve fever and pain. For infants, teenagers, and even adults who have difficulty swallowing oral medication, these are perfect.
Bottom Line
Over-the-counter medications also are medicines. For starters, if you have trouble with your stomach, kidney, liver or heart, there are some over-the-counter painkillers you shouldn’t use.
And certain drugs and alternative medications that are over-the-counter can interfere with other prescription medicines, making them more effective or less effective. Or you can get side effects from the combination.
Always let the doctor or pharmacist know what you are taking for your medication, over-the-counter, alternative or supplemental medicines.
