About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 18, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A

Over-the-Counter Medicines


Medicines a person can buy without a prescription are called nonprescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. They may be taken to treat minor health problems at home.

Examples of over-the-counter medicines are acetaminophen, aspirin, antacids, decongestants, antihistamines, and laxatives.

It's important to talk to the doctor about what medicines may not be safe to give children.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerMargaret Hetherington, B.Sc.Phm., PharmD - Pharmacy
Last RevisedJuly 6, 2011

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement





Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies