Aspirus provides reminders for staying safe and smart with over-the-counter medications

Aspirus Health is encouraging patients to approach over-the-counter (OTC) medications with caution and informed decision-making.
OTC medications are a convenient solution for managing common ailments like coughs, colds and congestion. However, improper use can lead to unintended side effects — or even harm.
“Patients may not know what the active ingredients are in each medication,” says Stetson Potrykus, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident. “This can lead to taking multiple products with overlapping ingredients, which increases the risk of side effects by raising the overall dose.”
Many OTC medications are combination products designed to target multiple symptoms. While helpful, these products require careful label reading to ensure safe use.
“The key is to narrow down the symptoms you have and select a medication that addresses those symptoms specifically,” Potrykus adds. “That approach reduces the risk of taking unnecessary ingredients and minimizes side effects.”

Tips for OTC medications

To get the most benefit from OTC medications while minimizing risks, Potrykus recommends:
• Identify symptoms: Select a medication designed for specific needs.
• Check the labels: Avoid products with duplicate active ingredients to reduce the risk of overuse.
• Use combination products carefully: Ensure they align with symptoms and avoid taking unnecessary ingredients.

Consulting health care providers

While OTC medications are effective for short-term relief, they aren’t always the solution. Potrykus advises contacting a health care provider if:
• Symptoms persist for more than a week.
• Symptoms worsen despite OTC treatments.
• Being unsure which medication is safe, particularly if someone has underlying conditions or takes prescription medications.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce complications and ensure effective symptom management. For personalized advice, consult a health care provider.