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One of the most important things to look at when purchasing an over the counter (OTC) medication is the label; it will tell a lot of important information. First of all it will tell the name of the product and it’s description. Also, a very important part is looking at the tamper resistant features. On most medications it will say, “do not use if the Sealed For Your Protection band around the cap or neck is broken or missing”. Take this warning very seriously, if opened this OTC could have been tampered with and could cause you much more harm than good. Also look at the list of active ingredients, if you are taking more than one OTC look for multiple ingredients that are in both; this could cause an overdose of a certain ingredient. Also look to see if any ingredient might cause an allergic reaction. Look for warnings that explain the proper use of the drug, such as people who shouldn’t take it, possible side effects, when to stop use of the drug, and health restrictions of the drug. One requirement of the FDA is that the label declares the use of Yellow No. 5. According to the FDA any product that contains a die (foods, cosmetics, and drugs) must note this on the label. Since no prescription is necessary to use these drugs, the label lists which symptoms and conditions this prescription should be used for. The label on the prescription also must be listed on the label. These may include, “take with water” or “must be chewed”. Last but definitely not least look at the expiration date on the label. Not all drugs have an expiration date but if they do, definitely listen to it. Generic Brands of drugs are often thought less of, when they should not be. Although they might not have the Advil or Tylenol name doesn’t mean that they wont do the same job. The fact is that the generic Osco or Walgreens brands have the exact same active ingredients. Often when many have a soar throat they will go and buy the more expensive Triaminic when the Wallgreens or Osco brand will work the same and are nearly $2.00 less.
Approximate Word count = 1473
Approximate Pages = 5.9
(250 words per page double spaced)
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