
Some Over-the-Counter Medicines You Should Stock in Your Household: cold medicines, ointments/creams, pain/fever medications, etc.
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are drugs you can buy without a prescription. Most stores offer them but all pharmacies have them in stock. Some OTC medicines relieve aches, pains and itches. Some prevent or cure diseases, like tooth decay and athlete’s foot. Others help manage recurring problems, like migraines. You can get OTC medline products online – try visiting Parentgiving.com.
You should keep these essential over the counter medicines in stock in your household. Most of the cover the common ailments we encounter. Remember though to check if they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and that they are not expired yet. Taking OTC medicines still has risks. Some interact with other medicines, supplements, foods or drinks. Others cause problems for people with certain medical conditions. If you’re pregnant, talk to your health care provider before taking any medicines.
For Pain and Fever:
There are three main medicines used to treat fever and pain: 1) acetaminophen, 2) nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 3)aspirin.
For the Common Cold:
Colds are often caused by virus so treatment is alleviate symptoms.
Cough:
Dextromethorphan (Delysm, Pedicare, Robitussin, Scot-Tussin, St. Joseph, Theraflu, Triaminic, Vicks 44, and many others)
Guaifenesin (Robitussin, Mucinex among many others) – mucolytic and expectorant
Head Sinus and Congestion: Decongestant
Sore Throat, Headache, Earache, and Body Aches: Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are helpful in treating the pain associated with cold and influenza.
Sneezing, Runny Nose, Watery Eyes: (Benadryl) is an antihistamine used to treat these the symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
For an Upset Stomach:
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) is an OTC liquid medication recommended by many for the treatment of indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.
For Diarrhea:
Attapulgite (Kaopectate, Donnagel, Diatrol, and others) is an OTC medication that helps control diarrhea.
For Allergies:
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that treats allergic reactions and itch.
And as read in bottle labels, if symptoms persist – consult your doctor.

