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What Do You Really Know About Over-the-Counter Medications?

Just because a drug is available without a prescription doesn't mean it's safe to take, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says. Take this quiz and learn the ins and outs of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

How are prescription drugs different from OTC ones?
You should follow certain precautions when you self-treat with OTCs. What should you do?
Aspirin can cause problems with which of these conditions?
People allergic to aspirin may also be allergic to which other OTC(s)?
You can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs safely for how long before seeing a doctor for a diagnosis?
Acetaminophen is less likely than aspirin to cause gastric distress, but an overdose of 15 grams can lead to irreversible liver disease. Who is most at risk?
Antacids often are taken for digestive problems. What is the greatest danger?
The elderly are especially vulnerable to the side effects of which of these OTCs?
Many OTC medications for children come in liquid form. What is the best way to measure the dosage?
What should you look for when you select an OTC drug?
Publication Source: Vitality magazine
Author: Floria, Barbara
Online Source: Over-the-Counter Medicines: What's Right for You? http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/WhatsRightForYou.htm
Online Editor: Sinovic, Dianna
Online Medical Reviewer: Cineas, Sybil MD
Date Last Reviewed: 11/10/2008
Date Last Modified: 7/28/2009
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