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Nonprescription medicines

Medicines a person can buy without a prescription are called nonprescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. They may be taken to treat minor health problems at home.

Examples of over-the-counter medicines are acetaminophen, aspirin, antacids, decongestants, antihistamines, and laxatives.

It’s important to talk to the doctor about what medicines may not be safe to give children.

Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MSLast Updated: May 1, 2008
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

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