There are so many drugs on the market today. And it is scary how many new drugs, especially over the counter ones are sold today. I want to talk about the top over- the- counter drugs, and why you should be cautious when taking them.

There are many categories of medication that are given to patient’s without a prescription. These over-the-counter medications can have many side effects that people may not realize because they think that if it is OTC, it is safer than prescription drugs.

Analgesics and Antipyretics

One of the number one drugs is acetaminophen, otherwise known as tylenol to some. There are many different types of analgesics (pain meds) and antipyretics (fever reducers). Also included in this category are drugs such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen.

Antacids and GI (gastrointestinal) meds

To name just a few: Ducusate,  Psyllium (fiber therapy) Magnesium Citrate

Cough and Cold Meds/Allergy

Cepacol ( oral lozenge) Guaifenesin/Dextromethophan (cough) Pseudoephedrine

Glucose Test Strips and Lancets

Accu-chek Comfort Curve Test Strips, Monolet Lancets

Insulins

Novolin R, Novolin N Novolin 70/30

 Nicotine

Nicotine gum, lozenge, transdermal.

 Topicals

Artificial Tears, Hydrocortisone, Triple Antibiotic Ointment

Vitamins and Mineral Supplements

Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Carbonate with Vitamin D

Multivitamins

Remember that just because it is over -the -counter, it is not safer than prescription medications. There are many side effects and adverse reactions that can happen from any kind of drug.

Taken in part from: Over-the Counter Medications. University of Iowa Health Care.

http://www. unihealthcare.com/pharmacy/otcmedications.html