An over-the-counter (OTC) medicine is a medicine that can be legally obtained without a prescription under the rules of the jurisdiction where it is sold.
OTC medicines are intended for conditions that can generally be managed without a prescription when used according to their approved instructions. They may include medicines for pain, fever, allergies, minor gastrointestinal problems, and other common conditions, depending on the country.
The term OTC does not mean harmless. OTC medicines can cause side effects, interact with other medicines, be unsuitable for certain people, or cause harm when taken at excessive doses or for inappropriate reasons.
What is available over the counter also varies between countries. A medicine that can be purchased without a prescription in one country may require a prescription in another.
QUICK FACT
“Over-the-counter” describes how a medicine can legally be obtained; it does not describe how strong, safe, or effective the medicine is.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Prescription medicine — A medicine whose legal supply requires a prescription from an appropriately authorized healthcare professional.
- Self-medication — The use of medicines by a person to treat a perceived illness without professional assessment; self-medication can involve both OTC and prescription medicines obtained or used outside appropriate supervision.
- Nonprescription medicine — Often used interchangeably with OTC medicine, although terminology and regulatory classifications vary between jurisdictions.
SEE ALSO
- Prescription medicine
- Self-medication
- Antimalarial
- Medication safety
- Drug interaction
