"Over-the-counter" (OTC) medicines are medications that can be purchased without a prescription from a healthcare professional. These medications are generally considered safe for use without direct supervision, but it's important for individuals to follow the recommended dosage and usage instructions. Here are some common categories of over-the-counter medicines: 1. **Pain Relievers:** - **Acetaminophen (Tylenol):** Used for pain relief and reducing fever. - **Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin):** Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain, inflammation, and fever. 2. **Cold and Flu Medications:** - **Decongestants:** Used to relieve nasal congestion (e.g., pseudoephedrine). - **Antihistamines:** Help with allergy symptoms and some cold symptoms (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine). - **Cough Suppressants:** Help reduce coughing (e.g., dextromethorphan). - **Expectorants:** Aid in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract (e.g., guaifenesin). 3. **Allergy Medications:** - **Antihistamines:** Used to relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. 4. **Digestive Health:** - **Antacids:** Provide relief from heartburn and indigestion. - **H2 Blockers:** Reduce stomach acid production (e.g., ranitidine). - **Laxatives:** Help relieve constipation. 5. **Topical Products:** - **Pain Relieving Creams/Gels:** Applied to the skin to relieve pain (e.g., topical analgesics). - **Hydrocortisone Cream:** Used for skin irritation and itching. 6. **First Aid:** - **Antiseptics:** Used to clean wounds (e.g., hydrogen peroxide). - **Adhesive Bandages:** For minor cuts and wounds. 7. **Sleep Aids:** - **Diphenhydramine:** An antihistamine with sedative properties, often used for sleep (found in some OTC sleep aids). 8. **Oral Care:** - **Toothpaste, Mouthwash, and Dental Floss:** Various products for oral hygiene. - **Oral Pain Relief Gels:** Used for temporary relief of toothache or gum irritation. It's crucial to read and follow the instructions on the packaging, especially regarding dosage and potential interactions with other medications. If you have any concerns about using OTC medications, or if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using them.