Medicine Cabinet Essentials

Over-the-counter medications are necessary for every household to help treat any at-home health emergencies such as headaches, coughs, itching, and other minor ailments. Here’s a checklist to help you keep your medicine cabinet properly stocked at all times.

These over-the-counter medications can help bring down a fever. They are also used to help alleviate pain, relieve a migraine, and reduce inflammation

 

Warning: Take these with caution and know which ones are appropriate for you. For example, people who take blood thinners or who are about to have surgery are advised to not take aspirin. Children and teenagers should also avoid aspirin, as some studies have shown it is linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal illness that causes swelling of the brain and liver.

 

Thermometer
Keep this handy to check your temperature when you feel a fever coming on. Look for an electronic version which is often the most accurate, as well as a safer option than traditional thermometers that may contain mercury.

Look for one that contains the cough suppressant dextromethorphan, which is especially helpful for dry, hacking coughs. For mucus-producing coughs, look for a cough medicine that contains guaifenesin, which helps to loosen secretions.

 

These help to relieve heartburn by temporarily neutralizing stomach acid that has backed up and is irritating the esophagus.

 

For temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract such as indigestion or diarrhea, try a digestive relief treatment such as Pepto-Bismol.

 

These help to relieve sneezing and a runny nose. Eye drops that contain an antihistamine and a decongestant are also good for soothing itchy eyes.

Use a 1% strength version to help relieve a minor rash or itch.

 

 

▪ Leave products in their original packaging so they are easy to identify.

 

▪ Review the contents of your medicine cabinet every six months, and throw out any expired items.

▪ Keep products out of reach of children.

▪ Be aware of any allergies that people in your household may have to certain medicines.

 

▪ Medicines should be kept in a cool, dry place so keep them out of the bathroom where there is potential for humidity to cause damage to them.

▪ For any over-the-counter medications, read and follow the directions on the label carefully. If you are taking different medications at the same time, ensure that it is safe for you to do so by talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

 

▪ Always consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking any medication of which you are unsure of the side effects.