Nonprescription Medicines

Alternate Terms:
  • Over-The-Counter Medicines
  • OTC Medicines
  • OTC Medications
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General Medicine Guidelines



Nonprescription Medicines Definition by Healthwise:

Nonprescription 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.

Author: Jeannette Curtis
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: May 25, 2007

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