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Over-the-Counter Guides
Expert-curated over-the-counter (OTC) guides providing comprehensive, easy-to-understand information. Access reliable, up-to-date self-care information based on the same guidelines your doctors follow.
January 9, 2025
Bloating and Gas
Guideline-recommended OTC strategies to manage bloating and gas, including first-line treatments like simethicone (80–160 mg after meals) and dietary modifications such as avoiding triggers and following a low-FODMAP diet. Track symptom patterns with a food journal and consider probiotics to improve gut health. For IBS-related bloating, prescription options like rifaximin may provide additional relief.
January 9, 2025
Acute Bronchitis: Best OTC Treatments
Over-the-counter guide to acute viral bronchitis with supportive care, including hydration, rest, and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort. For cough relief, consider dextromethorphan (30 mg) or guaifenesin (600–1200 mg every 12 hours). In children, honey can reduce cough severity and improve sleep but should not be given to infants under one year. Antibiotics are rarely needed unless bacterial superinfection is confirmed.
January 9, 2025
Osteoarthritis: Arthritis Foundation Guidelines
Expert-recommended strategies for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. First-line recommendations from the 2019 ACR guidelines emphasize exercise, weight loss, topical NSAIDs like diclofenac gel, and oral NSAIDs for severe pain. Second-line options include acetaminophen, capsaicin cream, and advanced interventions like intra-articular corticosteroids or duloxetine for chronic pain.
January 9, 2025
Nasal Allergies: ARIA International Guidelines
We tell you the over-the-lines guidelines your doctors read. Intranasal corticosteroids like fluticasone are the first-line option for controlling symptoms based on ARIA guidelines, while antihistamines (intranasal azelastine or oral loratadine) are recommended for additional relief. Find the best evidence-based recommendations for lasting symptom control.
January 9, 2025
Lower Back Pain: 3 Lines of Treatment
Effective doctor-recommended OTC strategies for managing chronic stable back pain. Second-line options include topical analgesics like capsaicin cream or diclofenac gel and temporary relief from lidocaine patches. Learn about adjunctive therapies like TENS, ultrasound, or laser therapy to enhance functionality and reduce pain intensity.
January 9, 2025
Skin Warts: At-Home Removal
The same guidelines your doctors use. Treat cutaneous warts effectively with over-the-counter options like salicylic acid (17–40%), applied daily after soaking the wart, or cryotherapy products for freezing small warts at home. For larger or persistent warts, professional treatments like photodynamic therapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal may be recommended.
January 8, 2025
Birth Control Without a Prescription
In July 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved norgestrel (Opill) as the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive pill available in the United States. Norgestrel is indicated specifically for the prevention of pregnancy, contains only progesterone, and is indicated for daily oral use.
January 8, 2025
Ankle Sprain Recovery Tips
Expert over-the-counter recommendations for managing mild to moderate sprains. Learn the updated POLICE principle (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to reduce swelling and promote healing, and find top-rated ankle braces for functional support.
January 8, 2025
Bug and Insect Bites: Treat and Prevent
Treat and prevent bug or insect bites with effective OTC at-home remedies and prevention strategies. Soothe itching and swelling with options like hydrocortisone 1% cream, diphenhydramine with zinc acetate, or calamine lotion. Clean bites with antiseptic solutions to prevent infection, and avoid future bites using DEET-based repellents or permethrin-treated clothing. For severe allergic reactions or secondary infections, explore prescription options like oral antihistamines, antibiotics, or epinephrine.
January 8, 2025
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Get Better With At-Home Conservative Treatment
Guideline-recommended OTC carpal tunnel management with first-line treatments like activity modification and neutral-position wrist splints, particularly at night, to reduce nerve compression. Avoid ineffective therapies such as oral medications or magnet therapy. For persistent symptoms, professional interventions like corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary.