4 questions to ask yourself before using nonprescription medications
More than one-third of Americans regularly use nonprescription drugs to treat a number of ailments—pain, fever, cold and allergy symptoms, heartburn, and insomnia, to name a few. The manufacturers of the medications sold on drugstore shelves have demonstrated to the FDA that their products are safe and effective. And using them can spare you the money and time spent making a health care visit and filling a prescription.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.