Ask a healthcare professional about OTC medicines

Make the most of your visits with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse practitioner

When recommending a medicine for you, a healthcare professional considers your symptoms, age, health conditions (past and present), medications, and more. Make the most of your next visit by taking these steps:

•  Make a list of the medications and other supplements  you are currently taking. These include OTC and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements

•  Prepare a list of questions 

Questions about OTC pain relievers

If you are unsure which pain medication may be appropriate for you, or how to use it responsibly, here are some questions to ask your healthcare professional:

• Which OTC pain reliever may be most appropriate for me based on my health conditions, age, or other medicines?

• Do the other medicines I am taking have the same ingredient?

• Could it interact with my other medicines or vitamins?

• Are there possible side effects?

• What should I do if my symptoms don’t go away or if they worsen?