what medicines should i keep at home

Medicines to Keep at Home

• Paracetamol Paracetamol eases pain. ...
• Anti-inflammatory painkillers These are painkillers which also reduce inflammation. ...
• Antihistamines These ease the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies - for example, hives (urticaria), itch, sneezing, watering eyes, and a runny nose. ...
• Antacids These help to ease indigestion and heartburn. ...
• Hydrocortisone cream ...
• Antiseptic cream ...
• Other useful items ...
• Further advice ...

Full Answer

What are the basic medications every household should have?

These medications are the basic requirement for every household. 1 Paracetamol - It eases the pain and reduces fever. 2 Antihistamines - They are helpful in tackling various allergies from a hay fever to a runny nose. 3 Cough medicine : They come in several forms from syrup to pills. 4 Eye drops : Drops that contain an antihistamine...

What are the medicines to keep at home for pain?

Medicines to Keep at Home 1 Paracetamol. Paracetamol eases pain. ... 2 Anti-inflammatory painkillers. These are painkillers which also reduce inflammation. ... 3 Antihistamines. ... 4 Antacids. ... 5 Hydrocortisone cream. ... 6 Antiseptic cream. ... 7 Other useful items. ... 8 Further advice. ...

What kind of medicines can you buy at home pharmacy?

The categories of medicines that you should have in your home pharmacy: Pain and fever medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) in both adult and child strengths (if you have children). If you have an infant, you may need infant strengths as well.

What are the best medications to keep in your medicine cabinet?

Tape a list of emergency phone numbers (doctors, Poison Control), medication instructions and allergy remedies inside the cabinet door. 2. Acetaminophen and an NSAID Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation related to conditions like backaches and toothaches.

What medicines should every household have?

MedicinesAcetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and/or naproxen sodium (for pain relief and fever reduction)Chewable aspirin tablets (for symptoms of a heart attack)Antacids.Antihistamine tablets or syrup.Antidiarrheal medicine.Cough medicine.Decongestant tablets or liquid.

What medicines should I keep on hand?

Types of medications to have on-handAllergy medication. Depending on the time of year and where you live, well-stocked medicine cabinets should contain eye drops and antihistamines. ... Anti-bacterial cream or ointment. ... Decongestant. ... Pain reliever. ... Anti-diarrheal. ... Calamine lotion. ... Activated charcoal. ... Adhesive bandages.More items...•

What over the counter medicine should you have at home why?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the obvious must-haves -- this category of medications includes ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin (Excedrin, which also contains acetaminophen) and naproxen (Aleve). Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often grouped into that category as well, but it's not actually an NSAID.

What should I put in my medicine box?

Supplies to Keep on HandAdhesive bandages, gauze bandages.Cotton balls and Q-tips.Alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.Soap.Thermometer (For quicker results, look for digital thermometers or the kind you put on your forehead or in your ear.)Tweezers, for tick or splinter removal.Safety pins and scissors.Medical exam gloves.More items...•

What is the most important drug in an emergency kit?

Epinephrine represents the most important drug in the emergency kit. Though (hopefully) rarely used, it must be available for administration as soon as possible in the event of an anaphylactic reaction (see Dr. Reed's article on page 126).

How do I organize my medicine cabinet?

Organize Your Medicine Cabinet in 5 Easy StepsStep 1: Take EVERYTHING out. ... Step 2: Wipe down the interior of your medicine cabinet or storage bins. ... Step 3: Throw away any expired medicines or first aid supplies. ... Step 4: Sort all medicines in storage bins by category. ... Step 6: Label!

What are the 10 most common medicines?

10 Commonly Prescribed Medicines from Around the WorldHydrocodone. Hydrocodone was first patented in 1923, with the long-acting formulation being approved in 2013. ... Metformin. ... Losartan. ... Antibiotics. ... Albuterol. ... Antihistamines. ... Gabapentin. ... Omeprazole.More items...•

What is the most useful medicine?

1. Penicillin (1942) Penicillin was first developed in 1928 but started to be used in 1942. As the first official antibiotic, it marked a turning point in human history and led the way in the treatment of numerous bacterial diseases.

Where do you store medicines at home?

Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. For example, store it in your dresser drawer or a kitchen cabinet away from the stove, sink, and any hot appliances. You can also store medicine in a storage box, on a shelf, or in a closet. If you are like most people, you probably store your medicine in a bathroom cabinet.

How do you stock up on medicine?

Here are some tips for how best to stock your medicine cabinet....Get rid of unused and old prescriptionsMix the medicines with inedible substances, such as dirt or cat litter.Put the mixture in a sealed plastic bag or other container.Throw the bag or container into your trash.

What do you stock in a medicine cabinet?

Medicine cabinet checklist for childrenAlcohol wipes.Water wipes.Neosporin.Bandages in a variety of sizes (fun prints are optional) – you may also want to have gauze for bigger cuts.Bug spray.Cortisone 1% ointment.Children's pain/fever reducers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.More items...•

How many kids accidentally overdose?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 60,000 children end up in the emergency room every year due to accidental overdose — often from medications they find around the home.

What are the 10 most common medicines?

10 Commonly Prescribed Medicines from Around the WorldHydrocodone. Hydrocodone was first patented in 1923, with the long-acting formulation being approved in 2013. ... Metformin. ... Losartan. ... Antibiotics. ... Albuterol. ... Antihistamines. ... Gabapentin. ... Omeprazole.More items...•

What is the most useful medicine?

1. Penicillin (1942) Penicillin was first developed in 1928 but started to be used in 1942. As the first official antibiotic, it marked a turning point in human history and led the way in the treatment of numerous bacterial diseases.

What is normal medicine?

Normal Tablet is a combination of two medicines: Nimesulide and Paracetamol. This medication helps in relieving the pain and inflammation. It works by lowering the levels of chemical substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

Where do you store medicines at home?

Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. For example, store it in your dresser drawer or a kitchen cabinet away from the stove, sink, and any hot appliances. You can also store medicine in a storage box, on a shelf, or in a closet. If you are like most people, you probably store your medicine in a bathroom cabinet.

What is the best medicine for premenstrual syndrome?

Gené van den Ende, vice president of North America medical affairs at Bayer Consumer Health, recommends Midol Complete. Its blend of acetaminophen, caffeine and pyrilamine maleate (an antihistamine) work together to combat cramps, muscle aches, fatigue, bloating and water weight gain.

How to make your period easier?

If you don't have symptoms like bloating or fatigue, but just want to relax and make your period easier, try soothing activities like listening to a guided meditation with an essential oil diffuser running in your room.

What to do after a cut with hydrogen peroxide?

After cleaning a cut, scrape or burn with hydrogen peroxide, apply an antibiotic ointment on it as soon as you can, covering it with a bandaid to help the healing process, Yacoub says.

Why do I have to take antacids for heartburn?

Ramzi Yacoub, PharmD, SingleCare 's chief pharmacy officer tells CNET that everyone should have antacids on hand for quick relief from heartburn, which is caused by acid reflux. "Symptoms for heartburn generally consist of a burning sensation in your stomach or chest, usually right after you eat something that doesn't agree with you," Yacoub says. "Antacids work fast and provide short term relief in neutralizing stomach acids."

What is Hollmig's body spray?

Hollmig also loves ointment sprays, like Aquaphor's Ointment Body Spray, a mist form of what usually comes in tubes and tubs. "These are really helpful because patients don't have to spread a greasy product onto their skin," Hollmig says. "They just spray it like a spray sunscreen. It's a wonderful way to moisturize, best used within 2 minutes after showering to seal in a layer of moisture."

What is the best numbing cream for lower back pain?

Lidocaine is a numbing agent that works by blocking nerve signals that cause pain. You can find OTC lidocaine patches up to 4% in most drugstores, usually under multiple brand names -- IcyHot is one well-known brand. Use these for localized pain, such as lower back pain or sore muscles, Kosharkyy says.

Can you take Xyzal at night?

Jennifer Caudle, family physician and associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Rowan University recommends Xyzal for severe ongoing and seasonal allergies. You should take it at night because it can cause drowsiness, but the 24-hour relief should last you until the next evening, she says.

What to use after cleaning a wound?

Antibacterial Ointment. After you have cleaned the wound, it is good to apply an antibacterial ointment to reduce the risk of infection. Products such as Soframycin, Neosporin or Betadine are good options and can be applied to wounds in which the skin is not damaged badly. Painkillers.

Why do antacids help with gas?

If you suffer from a burning sensation or pain in the stomach or excessive gas, it is quite likely that the acid normally present in the stomach is causing you problems. In such situations, an antacid is useful because it helps to neutralize the harmful effects of the acid and helps with digestion. Products such as Eno or Gelusil are antacids that can help overcome simple indigestion problems.

How to treat a cold with a blocked nose?

The best way to treat this is by inhaling steam either as such or by adding in a little quantity of a nasal decongestant such as Vicks vaporub. Alternatively, stock up on nasal decongestant drops such as Nasivion and instill a few drops (or spray as recommended) every day to find relief. However, do not continue to use the drops for a very long time – if you do not find any relief after even two to three days, it is best to consult a doctor.

Can you drive while taking Cetzine?

Medicines such as Avil and Cetzine are antihistamines and can help deal with the symptoms of allergy; however, these tend to cause a slight drowsiness and therefore, it is vital you do not drive or perform any activity that requires you to be alert after taking this medicine. Antitussive Lozenges.

What do pharmacies sell?

You want to keep your medicine cabinet prepared for minor health issues. Alas, most pharmacies sell hundreds of different pills, sprays, creams, and gels. Which ones should you actually keep stocked at home?

How many pills are in Let's Go?

Let's go! Each pill contains either 325 mg (regular-strength) or 500 mg (extra-strength). You can take approximately 1000mg per dose (three regular pills or two extra-strength pills), repeating the dose every six hours. If you have severe liver disease, you should ask your doctor about a safe dose. Although acetaminophen is very safe in standard ...

Why is pseudoephedrine kept behind the counter?

Pseudoephedrine reduces mucous production and can be particularly handy when you have congestion due to a cold.

Why is diphenhydramine on the list?

So why is diphenhydramine on the list? It's still a great drug for treating allergic reactions. If you develop the splotchy, raised red rash known as hives, you're probably having an allergic reaction. It could have been something you ate, and you should track your meals to look for patterns. Hives could also be a reaction to sweating, exercise, or an autoimmune condition.

What is the best antacid for heartburn?

Aluminum hydroxide is a popular antacid sold under many different brands, such as Gaviscon and Equate. If you experience mild heartburn (also known as acid reflux), antacids are a fast-acting and effective treatment. Similar agents include calcium carbonate (Tums) and magnesium trisilicate.

What is the best nasal spray for allergies?

If your allergic symptoms consist primarily of stuffiness and runny nose, a steroid nasal spray may be a better choice. 4. Fluticasone (nasal spray) Fluticasone (Flonase) is a steroid that can be sprayed into the nose to treat nasal symptoms related to seasonal allergies, like stuffiness and runny nose.

How long does it take for hydrocortisone to work?

If you notice a new skin rash, try applying a thin layer of hydrocortisone twice per day for a week. If the rash gets worse after two or three days, or it doesn't improve after a week, stop applying the steroid and see your doctor.

What is the best medicine for a runny nose?

2. Antihistamines - They are helpful in tackling various allergies from a hay fever to a runny nose. These must be taken before you sleep because they cause excessive drowsiness. Separate dosage is required for children and adults in accordance with the requirement. 3.

Why is it important to have a medical cabinet?

A well-stocked medical cabinet can ensure a healthy and safe life for your family. In certain medical cases, you require medical assistance but most of the time if your home has the appropriate medicines you will solve the problem easily.

What to take for itchy eyes?

They also cause drowsiness and must be taken before sleeping. 4. Eye drops: Drops that contain an antihistamine and a decongestant can soothe itchy eyes. They are essential for instant relief in case your eyes feel uncomfortable or itch a lot. 5.

What is the best way to stop blood flow in a wound?

Bandages and gauze pads: They are essential in case of any physical wound. To stop the blood flow or to cover the wound to prevent infection, you need bandages. They come in very handy if there is an emergency situation. 6. Antiseptics - To cleanse all the wounds so that the infection does not set in.

Is paracetamol safe to take?

We've prepared a list of some such medicines which should be an essential part of any household. 1. Paracetamol - It eases the pain and reduces fever. With regular doses, it is safe but over-dosing can be harmful. Do not exceed the maximum amount recommended for a specific age group.

What is the best cough suppressant?

Cough medicine. For a dry, hacking cough, look for one that contains the cough suppressant dextromethorphan. Big-name brands include Robitussin Maximum Strength Cough, DayQuil Cough, and Delsym. If the cough is producing mucus, use something with guaifenesin, an expectorant, to loosen secretions.

What is the best medication for a runny nose?

Antihistamines. Diphenhydramine (in Benadryl), chlorpheniramine (in Chlor-Trimeton), and clemastine (in Tavist Allergy 12 Hour Relief) all work to relieve sneezing and a runny nose, but each causes sleepiness. Loratadine (in Claritin) is nonsedating.

What is the name of the decongestant in the cold?

Two popular kinds of decongestants are found in common brand-name cold medicines: pseudoephedrine (in Sudafed and Sinarest) or phenyleph rine (in DayQuil Severe Cold & Flu and Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Cold). Note: Federal law requires that products containing pseudoephedrine be located behind the counter; you'll have to show identification to buy them.

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid: Acne sufferers can benefit from masks, washes, and spot treatments with these ingredients.#N#Antifungal cream: More effective in curing athlete's foot than powders and sprays. Top brands include Micatin and Lotrimin.#N#Yeast-infection medicine: Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin, and other antifungals work well. But they will not fight vaginal infections that sometimes mimic yeast infections. If your drug does not work within a few days, see a doctor.#N#Bladder-infection medicine: Phenazopyridine (Uristat and Prodium) can relieve the burning and the urge to urinate. But it does not treat the infection, which may require antibiotics.

What is the best medicine for itching?

Use one (like Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream) to relieve intense itching. Or try one that combines calamine and an antihistamine, like Ivarest.

What is the best medicine for bladder infection?

If your drug does not work within a few days, see a doctor. Bladder-infection medicine: Phenazopyridine (Uristat and Prodium) can relieve the burning and the urge to urinate. But it does not treat the infection, which may require antibiotics.

What drops help with itching?

Drops that contain an antihistamine and a decongestant, like Naphcon A and Opcon-A, can soothe itchy eyes.

How to avoid over-medication?

Always use discretion and avoid over-medication. Follow dosage recommendations and avoid the home treatment of things that have not been properly diagnosed — even if you are the one diagnosing them. Use your medical provider as a consultant if you have doubts.

What to do with antibiotics that you never finished?

If you have any leftover antibiotics from prescriptions you never finished, throw all of those away, too. Medications for conditions that you no longer have, or are unlike to have, can be discarded as well. Group your home pharmacy into categories: cold medicines, ointments/creams, pain/fever medications, etc. ...

How many different medicines can a child take?

They can only take ten different types medicines to take care of the families who will be with them. This little exercise helps them narrow down the important medicines — the ones they are likely to use on a daily basis — from the ones they may need to look up before using them.

What is the best medicine for fever?

Pain and fever medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) in both adult and child strengths (if you have children). If you have an infant, you may need infant strengths as well. Remember that ibuprofen also has anti-inflammatory properties.

What is hydrocortisone used for?

Hydrocortisone: This topical steroid is also available in creams and ointments. Used for itching, treating mosquito bites, etc.

What is the best medicine to use for nasal spray?

Over-the-counter Tagamet (cimetidine) or Prilosec (omeprazole) would be appropriate to include, along with Maalox or Mylanta. Salt: You can get this from the kitchen, but making your own saline (1/4 tsp of salt to 8 oz of water) can be used for gargling or homemade nasal spray/drops.

What is the best stool softener for yeast infections?

Stomach and Intestinal Disorders: Include a good stool softener, such as Colace (docusate sodium), or a mild laxative such as Milk of Magnesia.

What to take for heartburn?

5. Decongestant, cough suppressant and flu relief medicine. You won’t want to leave home to go to the drugstore when you’re feeling lousy, so keep cold and flu relief medication on hand. 6. Antacids. If you are suffering from heartburn, these are your best bet for quick relief. 7.

What is the best medicine for a heart attack?

Aspirin. Aspirin works as a pain reliever for adults, but it’s also important to have on hand in case of emergencies. According to the American Heart Association, taking aspirin also helps during a heart attack. In fact, people having a heart attack are often given an aspirin by emergency medical services.

What is the best medicine for toothaches?

2. Acetaminophen and an NSAID. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation related to conditions like backaches and toothaches. Be aware of NSAID sensitivity in your family, especially in young children. 3.

What to stock up on for bandages?

Stock up on adhesive bandages of all sizes, plus plenty of gauze and sterile tape.

How to dispose of expired prescriptions?

Before you head to the drugstore, take an inventory of your medicine cabinet and what’s currently on your shelves. This is a good opportunity to clear your medicine cabinet of old prescriptions and expired medications. Make this a habit and try to do this every three months. Find a local center near you that can properly dispose of old medication. Some grocery stores or community centers offer this service annually. By doing this, you won’t have to worry about how long that bottle of pink liquid has been sitting on your shelf the next time you have a sudden stomach ache.

What to do when you need first aid?

If you need to treat an illness or injury, you will have all the common medications and first aid supplies on hand to help yourself or others. Before you head to the drugstore, take an inventory of your medicine cabinet and what’s currently on your shelves. ...

What Are OTC Medications for the Common Cold?

A cold is an upper respiratory tract infection ( URI 's) caused by a virus. Since most people with a viral illness (viral upper respiratory infection) generally recover in approximately 7 to 14 days, treatment is focused on symptom control. Symptoms of a cold are:

What Facts Should I Know About OTC Medications?

Over-the-counter medications are available for purchase without a prescription.

What Are OTC Medications for Pain and Fever?

There are three major medication categories available OTC to treat pain and fever;

What Are OTC Medications for Head and Sinus Congestion?

Oral decongestants come in either pill or liquid form and act by shrinking engorged blood vessels in the nasal and sinus passages. It is important to read the ingredient list since many preparations contain multiple medications. These medications often contain an active ingredient such as pseudoephedrine ( Sudafed) which is an adrenaline like drug. It should not be taken by individuals who have high blood pressure or who have palpitations or rapid heartbeat. These over the counter medications have warning labels that discuss their side effects. They may require special provision by the pharmacist at certain stores.

What Are OTC Medications for Sore Throat, Headache, Earache, and Body Aches?

It is reasonable to treat the symptoms of a sore throat for a few days but if symptoms don't resolve, a strep screen or throat swab may be necessary to determine if antibiotics are needed.

What Are OTC Medications for Upset Stomach?

Classic heartburn is described as a burning sensation in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the upper chest and may be associated with a bad taste in the back of the throat. It is important to note that many of these symptoms also are associated with heart attack or angina. Unless the diagnosis of heartburn is well established, individuals with chest pain should consider seeking emergent medical care. This is especially true in those with significant risk factors for heart disease including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a family history of heart disease or stroke.

What Are OTC Medications for Allergies and Itch?

However, difficulty breathing, wheezing, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing may be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock and emergency medical services should be activated (call 911 if available) if these symptoms develop.