 |
Always start by
reading the label—all of it. |
|
Look for an OTC
medicine that will treat only the symptoms you have. |
|
Know what to avoid
while taking an OTC medicine. Like prescriptions medicine, some OTC drugs
can cause side effects or reactions. |
|
When in doubt, ask
your health care provider or pharmacist before you buy or use an OTC
medicine. |
|
Take the medicine
EXACTLY as stated on the label. When it comes to OTC medicines, more is not
better. |
|
Use extra caution
when taking more than one OTC drug product at a time. Many OTC medicines
contain the same active ingredients. That means you may be getting more than
the recommended dose without even knowing it. |
|
Don’t combine
prescription medicines and OTC drugs without talking to your health care
provider first. |
|
Make sure that each
of your health care providers has a list of all the medicine you are taking. |
|
Always give infants
and children OTC medicines that are especially formulated for their age and
weight. |
|
Don’t use OTC
medicines after their expiration date. Dispose of all medicines promptly
after their expiration date and be careful not to throw them away where
children or pets may find them. |
