What it means
Medicine sold in pharmacies and stores without a prescription, such as acetaminophenuh-see-tuh-MIN-uh-fenA drug that relieves mild to moderate pain and lowers fever.Full entry , ibuprofeneye-byoo-PROH-fenA drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.Full entry , antacids, antihistamines like diphenhydraminedy-fen-HY-druh-meenA first-generation antihistamine used for allergies, itching, motion sickness, sleep and some drug reactions.Full entry , and cough medicines. Though easy to buy, these drugs can cause side effects, overdose and interactions with prescription drugs, and many combination products share the same ingredient.
For the nurse
Ask about every OTC medicine, vitamin and herbal product when taking a medication history. Teach clients to read the active ingredients on the label, especially acetaminophen, and to ask a pharmacist before combining products.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | OTC |
|---|---|
| Also written | over-the-counter medications, over-the-counter drug, over-the-counter drugs |
Related terms
ibuprofen
A drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
acetaminophen
A drug that relieves mild to moderate pain and lowers fever.
diphenhydramine
A first-generation antihistamine used for allergies, itching, motion sickness, sleep and some drug reactions.