Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medications

Common non-prescription drugs and their uses

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Pain Relievers & Fever Reducers

Acetaminophen
(Tylenol®, Panadol®)
Analgesic/Antipyretic
  • Pain relief (headaches, muscle aches)
  • Fever reduction
  • Generally gentler on stomach than NSAIDs
  • Maximum daily dose: 3,000-4,000 mg
Ibuprofen
(Advil®, Motrin®)
NSAID
  • Pain relief
  • Inflammation reduction
  • Fever reduction
  • May irritate stomach - take with food
Naproxen Sodium
(Aleve®)
NSAID
  • Longer-lasting pain relief (8-12 hours)
  • Inflammation reduction
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Not recommended for children under 12
Aspirin
(Bayer®, Bufferin®)
Salicylate
  • Pain relief
  • Fever reduction
  • Heart attack prevention (low-dose)
  • Not recommended for children (Reye's syndrome risk)

Cold & Allergy Medications

Diphenhydramine
(Benadryl®)
First-generation antihistamine
  • Allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes)
  • Sleep aid
  • Motion sickness
  • Causes significant drowsiness
Loratadine
(Claritin®)
Second-generation antihistamine
  • Seasonal allergy relief
  • Non-drowsy formula for most people
  • 24-hour relief with single dose
  • Safe for children (pediatric formulations available)
Pseudoephedrine
(Sudafed®)
Decongestant
  • Nasal congestion relief
  • Sinus pressure relief
  • Available behind pharmacy counter (ID required)
  • May cause increased heart rate or blood pressure
Dextromethorphan
(Robitussin DM®, Delsym®)
Cough suppressant
  • Temporarily relieves dry, hacking cough
  • Non-narcotic formula
  • Delsym® provides 12-hour relief
  • Not for chronic cough or cough with mucus

Digestive Health

Omeprazole
(Prilosec®)
Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
  • Treats frequent heartburn (2+ days/week)
  • GERD treatment
  • 14-day course (not for immediate relief)
  • Takes 1-4 days for full effect
Famotidine
(Pepcid®)
H2 blocker
  • Heartburn relief
  • Acid indigestion relief
  • Works within 30-60 minutes
  • Effects last 10-12 hours
Loperamide
(Imodium®)
Antidiarrheal
  • Controls diarrhea symptoms
  • Slows intestinal movement
  • Not for infectious diarrhea (with fever)
  • Maximum 8 mg in 24 hours for adults
Bismuth Subsalicylate
(Pepto-Bismol®)
Antacid/antidiarrheal
  • Upset stomach relief
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • May cause temporary darkening of tongue/stool

Topical Medications

Hydrocortisone Cream
(Cortizone®)
Topical steroid (1%)
  • Relieves itching and inflammation
  • Poison ivy/oak
  • Eczema
  • Insect bites
  • Don't use on face unless directed by doctor
Benzoyl Peroxide
(Clearasil®, Proactiv®)
Antibacterial (2.5-10%)
  • Mild to moderate acne treatment
  • Kills acne-causing bacteria
  • Dries excess oil
  • May bleach fabrics
  • Start with lower concentrations to minimize irritation
Lidocaine
(Solarcaine®, Aspercreme®)
Topical anesthetic
  • Temporary pain relief
  • Minor burns
  • Sunburn
  • Insect bites
  • Don't use on large areas of skin

Sleep Aids

Diphenhydramine
(Unisom SleepGels®, ZzzQuil®)
Sedating antihistamine
  • Occasional sleeplessness
  • Non-habit forming
  • May cause next-day drowsiness
  • Not recommended for long-term use
Doxylamine
(Unisom SleepTabs®)
Sedating antihistamine
  • Sleep aid
  • Longer duration than diphenhydramine
  • May cause dry mouth
  • Not for children under 12
Melatonin
(Various brands)
Hormone supplement
  • Jet lag
  • Sleep cycle regulation
  • Mild sleep aid
  • Typical dose: 0.5-5 mg
  • Works best when taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime

Important Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always read and follow label directions, and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have existing medical conditions or take other medications. Some OTC medications may interact with prescription drugs or have side effects.

Dosage recommendations vary by age and health status. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using any medication. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.