Taking OTC Medications Safely: What You Should Know

From cold remedies to pain relievers, over-the-counter drugs are readily available at many pharmacies — without a prescription from your doctor. However, this does not mean that these drugs are free of health risks. Before purchasing an over-the-counter medication, read these safety tips:

• Read the label carefully.

  Drug manufacturers are required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to disclose information on the ingredients. Read the Drug Facts label on the packaging to know the active ingredients, and other relevant information, such as directions and age restrictions. You can also ask your pharmacist about specific questions like what side effects you can expect.

• Consult your healthcare provider.

  Before purchasing an OTC drug, consult your doctor and keep him or her updated. They can guide you in selecting an appropriate medicine based on your medical history. A pharmacist at your local drug store in Alabama can also use this information to recommend an OTC medicine that’s suitable for you.

• Be wary of active ingredients.

  Some OTC medicines contain more than one active ingredient. For instance, some medicines for pain, fever, and colds contain similar active ingredients like acetaminophen. Medicines with the same active ingredient should not be taken together. To avoid taking unnecessary medications and reduce the risk of side effects, ask your pharmacist at our pharmacy about OTC products that treat only the symptoms you have.

Here at PharmSouth Pharmacy, your health is our priority. As an established compounding Pharmacy in Birmingham, Alabama, we offer OTC medications to treat a variety of health problems. Reach out to us today for more information.