You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in stores or online without a prescription. People use many OTC medicines, such as over-the-counter flu medication, to help reduce or improve symptoms of minor conditions. Not all medicines you purchase over the counter are effective. It is essential to know what to look for in OTC medicine.
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What To Know Before Taking OTC Medicine
Over-the-counter medications are actual medicines, so be careful of side effects and contraindications. Be sure always to read the label to understand the risks and benefits.
Active and Inactive Ingredients
Pay attention to the active and inactive ingredients to see what is in the medicine. Some ingredients mask the symptoms instead of working on improving them. For instance, if you have allergies and are taking an OTC medicine that causes headaches or drowsiness, consider trying a homeopathic allergy medicine instead. Also, avoid taking more than one medicine with the same ingredient as this could lead to getting too much of that substance.
Warnings and Directions for Use
Heed the warnings and dosage directions. Never take more than the recommended dose. The warnings will alert you to any side effects or interactions. Be sure to contact your healthcare provider for guidance if you are taking any other medications, experiencing worsening symptoms, or having adverse effects.
Benefits of OTC Medicine
While OTC medicine is not usually as strong as prescription medication, there are benefits. Here are a few reasons people prefer OTC medicine over prescription medicines for minor issues.
Better Convenience
Since you do not need to wait for a doctor to prescribe an OTC medicine, you can usually get working on trying to improve your symptoms sooner. You can purchase nonprescription drugs locally at pharmacies, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Even if you order your medications online, it often arrives at your home quicker. Once you have your OTC medicine, the next time you experience a minor illness, you will not have to wait and make an appointment at the doctor’s office. You can start taking medicine and working on improving your symptoms.
Lower Prices
Purchasing medications over the counter is typically less expensive than buying prescription medicine. Compare prices to get the best deal. You can also save money by looking for coupons on the manufacturer’s website.
Decreased Healthcare Costs
For mild illnesses, if you find an OTC medicine that helps improve your symptoms and does not cause any reactions, you can avoid a visit to your healthcare provider. Fewer visits for minor illnesses give the doctor more time to see you and other patients for more severe concerns. Of course, if your symptoms don’t improve, make an appointment to be seen.
Even though most OTC medicines are supposed to help improve symptoms, if you are looking for the best cold and flu medicine for adults, you might want to try a different approach. Maybe try a nice warm bowl of chicken soup! If that doesn’t work, try an over-the-counter homeopathic medicine to help improve the symptoms of your cold or flu.
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Did it is not harmful for lever?
Acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen (Aleve, and some others), nonprescription painkillers that might damage your liver, particularly if taken repeatedly or in conjunction with alcohol.