Smart OTCs
Smart Over-The-Counter Solutions 

Learn about our mission, pharmacist history and more at Smart OTCs According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and industry sources, there are over 100,000 distinct over-the-counter (OTC) drug products marketed in the U.S. today. Even as a pharmacist, I’ve seen how overwhelming the OTC aisle can be. Smart OTCs — the first pharmacist guide to over-the-counter solutions. Discover what really works for you. My Story Every day, people walk into pharmacies and face shelves full of options.They grab what looks familiar, what’s on sale, or what someone online mentioned — hoping it helps. But most of the time, they’re not sure if it’s the right one.And that’s not their fault — it’s a system problem. “I wanted to change that.” Smart OTC Solutions was designed to guide you — the same way I guide my patients in person. You choose your symptom, and I’ll show you safe, pharmacist-recommended options that actually make sense.You get the ‘why’ behind each product — so you can feel confident in your choice. “Let’s Close the Gap Together” How to use the website! The website mimics a pharmacy style, divided into shelves such as cough and cold shelf, seasonal allergies shelf and more, select the one that best matches what you need, then select specific symptoms you want to manage with over the counter medications, read the recommendations and confidently select the best fit product.Additionally, we offer short cuts to Amazon trusted products if you make a decision to purchase. Begin your health journey

Find trusted pharmacist Q&As on motion sickness at Smart OTCs. Learn effective OTC solutions, travel tips, and safe strategies for nausea relief. What brings you in today? Non-Medicated Solutions Motion Sickness Medicines Motion sickness is a common condition that occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals about movement from the inner ear, eyes, and body. For example, your inner ear may sense that you are moving, but if your eyes are fixed on a stationary object like a book or phone, your brain receives mixed messages. This mismatch confuses the body’s balance system, leading to the discomfort we call motion sickness. It is most frequently experienced during travel by car, plane, boat, train, or amusement rides, though it can also occur in virtual reality environments or simulator rides where the eyes detect motion but the body does not. The symptoms of motion sickness can vary in intensity and duration. Early signs often include a feeling of uneasiness, mild dizziness, or queasiness. As the condition progresses, more noticeable symptoms may develop, such as nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, and cold sweats. Many people also report clammy skin, fatigue, headache, difficulty concentrating, or increased saliva production. In some cases, symptoms may persist briefly even after motion has stopped. While not life-threatening, these symptoms can significantly reduce comfort, interfere with travel, and discourage participation in activities where motion is unavoidable. When to See a Doctor Most cases of motion sickness are mild and resolve once travel ends. However, medical evaluation is recommended if: Symptoms are severe, persistent, or occur even without travel. Motion sickness is accompanied by hearing changes, ringing in the ears, or balance problems. Episodes are frequent enough to interfere with daily activities or quality of life. OTC medications and non-medicated strategies do not provide relief.

Smart OTCs provides information and tips to manage several intestinal illnesses with over the counter medications. Learn more about options for heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and bloating with pharmacist recommendations and tips. What brings you in today? Acid Reflux (Heartburn) Hemorrhoids Gas and Bloating Diarrhea Constipation Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent, hard, or difficult bowel movements. It occurs when stool moves too slowly through the intestines, becoming dry and hard, which makes it harder to pass. People with constipation often report having fewer than three bowel movements per week, and in some cases, the condition can become chronic, lasting for weeks or longer. Common contributing factors include low fiber intake, dehydration, lack of physical activity, changes in diet or routine, certain medications, and even stress. Symptoms of constipation extend beyond difficulty passing stool. Many individuals experience bloating, abdominal discomfort, straining, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation after using the bathroom. The condition may also lead to fatigue, decreased appetite, or even hemorrhoids if straining becomes frequent. While usually mild and temporary, constipation can cause significant discomfort and impact quality of life if not managed properly. Recognizing these symptoms early is important for choosing the right relief strategies, whether through dietary changes, increased hydration, or safe over-the-counter treatments. Diarrhea is a digestive condition defined by frequent, loose, or watery stools that may appear suddenly and disrupt daily life. It can be acute, lasting just a few days, or chronic, persisting for weeks depending on the underlying cause. This condition often results from viral or bacterial infections, food intolerances, food poisoning, digestive disorders, stress, or even reactions to medications. Because it speeds up the movement of stool through the intestines, the body has less time to absorb water and nutrients, leading to watery stools. Symptoms of diarrhea go beyond frequent bowel movements. Individuals may experience abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, urgency, dehydration, and fatigue. In some cases, fever or blood in the stool may occur, which can indicate a more serious condition. While mild cases often resolve on their own, persistent or severe diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Recognizing these symptoms early is important so that effective measures such as oral rehydration, dietary adjustments, and safe OTC anti-diarrheal medications can be used while monitoring for signs that require medical care. Gas & Bloating are common digestive complaints that create a sensation of abdominal fullness, pressure, or visible swelling. They often develop when air is swallowed during eating or drinking, or when the digestive system breaks down certain foods that naturally produce gas. Food intolerances, such as lactose sensitivity or difficulty digesting certain carbohydrates, are also frequent contributors. In most cases, gas and bloating are temporary and harmless, but they can still cause discomfort and embarrassment, especially after meals. Typical symptoms include belching, flatulence, abdominal cramping, and a visibly distended stomach. Some people may also notice discomfort that worsens later in the day or after consuming specific foods like beans, carbonated drinks, dairy, or high-fiber items. While these symptoms are usually mild, they can interfere with daily activities or mimic more serious digestive issues. Relief often comes from over-the-counter remedies such as simethicone, which helps break up gas bubbles, or lactase enzyme supplements for those with lactose intolerance. Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, eating slowly, and making dietary adjustments can also reduce the frequency of symptoms. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and pain, particularly during or after bowel movements. They may develop internally, inside the rectum, or externally, around the anus. Common triggers include chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or a low-fiber diet. While hemorrhoids are a widespread condition, they can be distressing and interfere with daily comfort and activities. Symptoms of hemorrhoids often include painful bowel movements, itching, irritation, swelling, or minor bleeding noticed on toilet paper or in the stool. In some cases, a small lump may form near the anus due to a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid), which can be especially painful. For relief, over-the-counter treatments such as medicated creams, ointments, suppositories, and soothing wipes can reduce swelling, pain, and irritation. Preventive measures like increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged straining are equally important in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of flare-ups. Acid Reflux (Heartburn) is a digestive condition caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. This backflow irritates the lining of the esophagus and creates a burning or sour sensation in the chest or throat. Symptoms often appear after eating large or spicy meals, lying down too soon after eating, or consuming trigger foods such as caffeine, chocolate, citrus, or fatty foods. Occasional heartburn is common, but frequent episodes may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more persistent condition that requires medical evaluation. Symptoms of acid reflux can include burning chest pain, regurgitation of sour or bitter fluid, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat irritation. Discomfort may worsen at night or when bending over. For relief, over-the-counter options include antacids for fast but short-term relief, H2 blockers like famotidine for longer control of symptoms, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole for frequent or severe heartburn. Lifestyle adjustments, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding late-night snacks, elevating the head during sleep, and identifying food triggers, also play a key role in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. When to See a Doctor While most digestive problems can be safely managed with over-the-counter (OTC) remedies, medical attention is needed if you experience: Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks, severe abdominal pain, or blood in the stool. Diarrhea lasting longer than 3 days, dehydration, high fever, or bloody/black stools. Gas & Bloating accompanied by severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. Hemorrhoids with heavy rectal bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that do not improve with OTC treatments. Acid Reflux (Heartburn) that occurs more than twice a week, does not improve with OTC medications, or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or unintentional weight loss.

Manage your headache, pain and fever with trusted OTCs pharmacist-approved solutions. What brings you in today? Dental Pain/Mouth Sores Menstrual Pain Muscle and Joint Pain Migraine/Tension Headache Kids Fever Pain and fever are common symptoms that can arise from a variety of causes — from minor everyday issues to underlying medical conditions. OTC medications can provide quick relief, reduce discomfort, and help you return to normal activities sooner, but it’s important to choose the right category for your needs. Migraines Migraines are a neurological headache disorder that causes severe, throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head, and can last for hours or even days. Unlike regular headaches, migraines often come with additional disabling symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Some people also experience a visual or sensory “aura” before the headache begins, which may include flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling sensations. Migraines are more common in women, often linked to hormonal changes, and can significantly disrupt work, daily activities, and quality of life. There are several types of migraines, including migraine with aura, migraine without aura (the most common), menstrual migraines tied to hormonal shifts, chronic migraines that occur on 15 or more days a month, and silent migraines, where aura symptoms occur without the headache pain. Triggers can vary widely and may include stress, certain foods (such as aged cheese, processed meats, or alcohol), dehydration, lack of sleep, or sensory overload. Because migraines respond best to early intervention, over-the-counter migraine relief products such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or combination medications with acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine can be very effective if taken at the first sign of symptoms. Dental pain and Mouth Sores Mouth sores, also called canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop on the inner lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue. They usually appear as round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. While harmless and self-limiting, they can cause significant discomfort when eating, drinking, or speaking. Dental pain, on the other hand, is often sharp, throbbing, or constant, typically resulting from cavities, gum disease, cracked teeth, or injury. Both conditions can disrupt daily life and may worsen if not managed appropriately. Most cases improve with simple care and over-the-counter dental pain and mouth sore relief options. Topical anesthetics like benzocaine gels numb sore spots temporarily, while protective pastes and barrier creams shield ulcers from irritation. Antiseptic rinses help clean the mouth and reduce bacteria, promoting faster healing. For toothaches or widespread discomfort, oral pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation until professional care is available. Tension Headaches Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, often described as a dull, steady ache or a tight band of pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. They can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours and are typically less severe than migraines but still disruptive. Common symptoms include head and scalp tenderness, neck or shoulder tightness, and mild sensitivity to light or noise. Unlike migraines, tension headaches do not usually cause nausea, vomiting, or aura. Triggers for tension headaches often include stress, eye strain, dehydration, poor posture, or fatigue. They can occur occasionally or become frequent for some individuals. Most people find relief with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, especially when combined with hydration, stretching, rest, and posture correction. Early use of OTC medications and lifestyle adjustments can help prevent mild tension headaches from worsening and reduce recurrence. Muscle & Joint Pain Muscle and joint pain is a common complaint affecting people of all ages, caused by factors such as overuse, injury, strenuous exercise, or chronic conditions like arthritis. It often presents as aching, stiffness, swelling, or tenderness in the muscles or joints, and may limit mobility or daily activities. Acute muscle pain usually improves within a few days, but persistent or recurring joint pain may indicate an underlying condition that requires further attention. Management often includes a combination of rest, stretching, and supportive care, but over-the-counter relief for muscle and joint pain plays a key role. Oral NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen reduce both pain and inflammation, while acetaminophen provides effective relief for those who cannot take anti-inflammatory medications. Topical products, including gels, patches, and creams containing menthol, lidocaine, or diclofenac, deliver targeted pain relief directly to sore areas. When combined with heat or ice therapy, OTC options help many people return to activity and maintain mobility. Menstrual Pain Menstrual pain, also called dysmenorrhea, is a frequent condition that affects many women during their monthly cycle. It is caused by uterine contractions triggered by hormonal changes and often results in cramping or aching in the lower abdomen or lower back. Symptoms may also include headache, fatigue, mood swings, or nausea, and they can significantly disrupt daily activities. While mild cramps are common, some individuals experience severe pain that impacts school, work, or personal routines. The most effective way to manage this discomfort is through over-the-counter menstrual pain relief options. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen not only relieve pain but also target the prostaglandins responsible for uterine contractions. Acetaminophen provides an alternative for those who cannot take NSAIDs, though it is generally less effective for cramps. Supportive measures like heat pads, gentle exercise, relaxation techniques, and adequate rest further enhance relief and improve comfort during menstruation. Fever A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature, typically above 100.4°F (38°C), and is the body’s natural response to infection or inflammation. It is often accompanied by chills, sweating, body aches, fatigue, or dehydration. While a mild fever can support the immune system in fighting illness, higher fevers can be uncomfortable and sometimes signal more serious conditions, especially if they persist or rise above 103°F (39.4°C). For most cases, over-the-counter fever reducers are effective in lowering temperature and improving comfort. Acetaminophen is safe and widely used, while ibuprofen provides both fever reduction and anti-inflammatory benefits. Children’s formulations, available as liquids or chewables, make dosing safe and simple for younger patients. Combined with hydration, light clothing, rest, and a cool environment, OTC medications help restore comfort and allow the body to focus on recovery. When to See a Doctor Fever is higher than 103°F (39.4°C) in adults or lasts more than 3 days. Pain is severe, sudden, or unexplained. You experience neurological symptoms (vision changes, slurred speech, weakness). Pain or fever worsens despite OTC treatment.

Safe and effective ear wax removal solutions at Smart OTCs. Gentle treatments to clear blockages and maintain ear health. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Ear Wax Removal Ear wax removal can be done with different over the counter options including using ear drops to soften the wax, bulbs for safer rinse or the ear wax irrigation system. Start with ear drops or sprays to soften and break down wax—Debrox® or CleanEars® are effective, with Debrox® Kids safe for children. Once softened, use a rubber bulb syringe. Irrigation kits are specialized products for gentle flushing or the ear wax, all in one kit. Always avoid inserting cotton swabs or sharp objects, as they can push wax deeper or injure the ear canal. If you notice ear pain, drainage, dizziness, or persistent hearing loss, seek medical care before attempting home treatment. Find on Amazon Earwax Removal Drops, eg. Debrox® Debrox® Kids Ear Irrigation Kits CleanEars Wax Removal Spray Rubber Bulb Syringe want to learn more, read the product description below. Debrox® Earwax Removal Drops (Carbamide Peroxide) – Softens and breaks down earwax for easier removal. Debrox® Kids Earwax Removal Aid – A gentler carbamide peroxide formula designed specifically for children. CleanEars® Wax Removal Spray – An olive-oil-based spray that dissolves earwax while moisturizing the ear canal. Rubber Bulb Syringe – Used after drops to gently flush the ear with warm water. Ear Irrigation Kits – Provide a controlled stream of water to clear loosened wax safely.

Discover how to select the right eye drops for your condition with pharmacist approved recommendations. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Dry Eye Dryness can result from aging, hormonal changes, screen use, contact lenses, or dry environments. There are several eye drops, gels and ointments intended for dry eye, they work for the same purpose of adding and retaining moisture in the eye, but there are different formulas. For mild, occasional dryness, light drops like Refresh Tears® or Blink Tears® work well. If symptoms are frequent or you use drops more than 4 times daily, switch to preservative-free options such as Systane Hydration® PF or Refresh Optive® Mega-3. For persistent daytime dryness, gel drops give longer protection. At night, use Systane Nighttime® ointment to prevent morning irritation. Always avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye. Find on Amazon Systane Ultra® (POG+PRG) Refresh Tears® (CMS) Blink Tears® (POG+HYL) Systane Nighttime® PF Eye Ointment Systane Hydration® PF (Hyl) Refresh Optive® Mega-3 PF Refresh Optive® Gel Drops Want to learn more, read the product description below. Lubricant Eye Drops Systane Ultra® (Polyethylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol) – Slightly thicker consistency for longer-lasting comfort; helpful for digital eye strain. Refresh Tears® (Carboxymethylcellulose) – Light, fast-absorbing drops for mild dryness or sensitive eyes; suitable for frequent daytime use. Blink Tears® (Polyethylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate) – Contains hyaluronic acid for moisture retention; available in standard and contact lens-safe versions. Preservative-Free & Specialized Drops Systane Hydration® PF Single-Use Vials (Hyaluronic Acid) – Preservative-free vials ideal for sensitive eyes or frequent users. Refresh Optive® Mega-3 PF – Oil-enriched, preservative-free drops that support the lipid layer; useful for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Refresh Optive® Gel Drops – Thicker gel-like drops for more persistent dryness that standard drops can’t relieve. Nighttime Relief Systane Nighttime® PF Ointment – Petrolatum-based ointment that seals in moisture overnight; best for waking with dry or irritated eyes. When to See a Doctor Most cases of dry eye are mild and manageable with OTC products. However, seek medical care if symptoms are severe, persist despite regular treatment, or are accompanied by redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, sudden changes in vision, or excessive discharge. These may indicate an underlying condition requiring professional evaluation.

Fast relief for congestion, allergies & sinus pressure with safe and effective over the counter medication including pharmacist- verified recommendations. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Runny Nose For runny nose, nasal solutions include steroids, antihistamines and vasoconstrictors, nasal sticks also help with the congestion. For short-term decongestion, sprays like oxymetazoline, xylometazoline, or phenylephrine work quickly but should not be used longer than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion. Azelastine can help with short-term allergic symptoms but is not for long-term control. For seasonal or persistent allergies, steroid sprays like fluticasone, mometasone, or triamcinolone are safer and more effective when used consistently. If you prefer natural options, saline rinses are excellent for daily maintenance, and menthol inhaler sticks provide quick but temporary relief. Avoid using steroids sprays during active infections, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist beyond 1–2 weeks or worsen. Find on Amazon Azelastine (Astepro®) Xylometazoline (Sinex®) Oxymetazoline (Afrin®,Mucinex®) Fluticasone (Flonase®) Mometasone (Nasonex®) Triamcinolone (Nasacort®) Saline Nasal Rinses Phenylephrine Nasal Drops Nasal Inhaler Sticks Want to learn more, read the product description below. Antihistamine Nasal Spray Azelastine (Astepro®) – Provides rapid relief from itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Works within minutes but best for short-term use. Nasal Decongestant Sprays (Short-Term Relief) Xylometazoline (Sinex®) – Fast-acting spray that reduces swelling and improves airflow. Limit use to 3 days. Oxymetazoline (Afrin®, Mucinex® No Drip) – Potent decongestant with up to 12 hours of relief, often used at night. Limit to 3 days. Phenylephrine Nasal Drops – Targeted relief of nasal swelling; limit use to 3 days. Steroid Nasal Sprays (Long-Term Management) Fluticasone (Flonase®) – Reduces inflammation and congestion with daily use; may take several days for full effect. Mometasone (Nasonex®) – Effective for seasonal or year-round allergies with minimal systemic absorption. Triamcinolone (Nasacort®) – Gentle, fragrance-free option for long-term symptom control. Non-Medicated Relief Saline Nasal Rinses – Flush out allergens, dust, and mucus while moisturizing nasal passages. Safe for daily use. Nasal Inhaler Sticks – Contain menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus for temporary cooling relief; not for treating underlying causes.

Explore female contraceptives with Smart OTC Pharmacy. Find pharmacist-approved OTC options to support safe, effective birth control and women’s health. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Female Contraceptions Birth control options are available over the counter and they are highly effective if selected and used carefully. For regular non-hormonal options, spermicide gels, films, and suppositories provide convenience but are less effective when used alone—they work best with condoms for added protection. Emergency contraception (Plan B One-Step®) should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The sooner it’s taken, the more effective it is. For ongoing daily birth control, Opill® is now available without a prescription, making it an accessible option if taken consistently at the same time every day. None of these methods protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—condoms are still the best choice for STI protection. Find on Amazon Vaginal Contraceptive Gels & Films Emergency Contraceptives(eg. Plan B®) Opill® Progestin-Only Daily birth control Pills Want to learn more, read product description below. Vaginal Contraceptive Gel (Nonoxynol-9) – A spermicide gel that works by immobilizing and killing sperm before they can reach the egg. Typically applied with an included applicator before intercourse. Best for women looking for a hormone-free option. Can be used alone or with condoms for added protection, but not as effective as prescription birth control. VCF® Vaginal Contraceptive Film – A thin, dissolvable sheet that releases spermicide (nonoxynol-9) once placed inside the vagina. Discreet, portable, and hormone-free. Works best when inserted 15 minutes before intercourse. Lasts for one act of intercourse only, so a new film must be used each time. Plan B One-Step® (Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg) – Emergency contraception pill that helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure (e.g., condom breakage, missed pills). Most effective when taken ASAP, ideally within 24 hours, but works up to 72 hours. Does not work if you are already pregnant and is not meant for regular birth control. Opill® Progestin-Only Daily Birth Control Pill – The first daily oral contraceptive available without a prescription in the U.S. Contains norethindrone (a progestin) that prevents pregnancy mainly by thickening cervical mucus and sometimes stopping ovulation. Must be taken at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. Good for those seeking a long-term, hormone-based option without a doctor’s visit.

Explore non-medicated solutions at Smart OTCs. Gentle, safe options for relief without drugs. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Motion Sickness (Non-Medicated) In addition to medications, non-medicated options are available to help control motion sickness, they work on different targets to help alleviate the symptoms. If you want simple, natural nausea relief, try wristbands or ginger Use motion sickness glasses if you’re prone to dizziness when reading or using screens while traveling. Consider herbal patches for continuous, drug-free prevention. If non-medicated options are not enough, switch to OTC medications such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate for stronger relief. Find on Amazon Acupressure Wristbands (Sea-Band®) Ginger Containing Products Motion Sickness Glasses Herbal Motion Sickness Patches Want to learn more, read product description below. Acupressure Wristbands (Sea-Band®) – Apply constant pressure to the P6 acupressure point on the wrist to reduce nausea and vomiting. A drug-free option for travel by car, boat, or plane. Ginger – A natural stomach soother available as capsules, teas, lozenges, or chews. Helps calm digestion and ease nausea without sedation. Motion Sickness Glasses – Special lenses that reduce the sensory mismatch between the eyes and inner ear. Useful for passengers reading or using screens while in motion. Herbal Motion Sickness Patches – Worn behind the ear, typically containing ginger, peppermint, or menthol. Provide a cooling effect and nausea relief without drowsiness.

Discover pharmacist-reviewed OTC solutions for somnolence (drowsiness) at Smart OTC Solutions that help you stay up and active. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Somnolence Some of the products over the counter that contain caffeine can help with somnolence, B- vitamins can also boost energy For fast alertness, choose caffeine product that could come in tablets, gums, or drinks, alone or in combination with L-theanine, but use sparingly. For nutritional support, consider B-complex or B12 supplements, especially if fatigue is persistent. Avoid relying solely on stimulants—focus on good sleep hygiene and balanced nutrition. Seek medical evaluation if daytime sleepiness is frequent, severe, or interferes with daily activities, as it may signal an underlying condition like sleep apnea or thyroid imbalance. Find on Amazon Caffeine gums Caffeine tablets caffeine pouches B-Complex Capsules Vitamin B12 1000 mcg Tablets Want to learn more, read product description below. Caffeine comes in multiple forms, typically the gums are faster absorbed in the mouth. Caffeine comes also in tablets and other form including coffee and energy drinks, be mindful not to go over limit. B-Complex Capsules – Contain essential B vitamins, including B6 and B12, to support energy metabolism. May help reduce tiredness when linked to nutritional deficiencies. Vitamin B12 1000 mcg Tablets – Support cellular energy production and can help with fatigue related to low B12 levels.

Cough comes for different reasons, it could be dry, productive, mixed with other flu symptoms such as fever and runny nose. discover over the counter solutions for effective symptoms management. What brings you in today? Dry Cough Sore Throat Productive Cough Mixed Cough and Cold Dry Cough a persistent, tickling, or scratchy cough that produces little to no mucus or phlegm. Unlike a “wet” or productive cough, which helps clear mucus from the airways, a dry cough is usually non-productive and can feel irritating or exhausting. It is often triggered by inflammation or irritation in the throat and upper airways rather than an underlying buildup of mucus. Dry coughs are commonly associated with viral infections such as the common cold or flu, but they can also be caused by allergies, exposure to dry air, asthma, or even irritants like smoke, dust, and perfumes. The main symptoms of a dry cough include constant throat tickling, scratchiness, or an urge to cough without relief, which may worsen in the evening or after talking for long periods. Many people also experience hoarseness, throat soreness, or disrupted sleep because the cough tends to flare up at night. While usually harmless and self-limiting, a dry cough can be very disruptive to daily activities, work, and rest. Recognizing whether your cough is dry (non-productive) versus wet (productive with mucus) is important, as each type requires a different approach for relief. Productive Cough a cough that produces mucus or phlegm, which plays an important role in clearing the lungs and airways. Unlike a dry cough, which is often just an irritation, a productive cough helps the body expel excess secretions caused by infection, inflammation, or irritants. It is most often seen with respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, or bronchitis, and may also occur with chest congestion or while recovering from an illness. In many cases, a productive cough is the body’s natural way of protecting the lungs by clearing mucus that traps bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Typical symptoms of a productive cough include coughing up mucus that may be clear, white, yellow, or green in color, chest congestion or tightness, and a rattling sound when breathing or coughing. Some people may also experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest discomfort if mucus buildup is significant. While productive coughs are often temporary, they can be disruptive and tiring, especially when they persist at night or for several weeks. Identifying whether the cough is helping clear mucus versus becoming excessive is important, as this guides whether to use OTC expectorants, stay hydrated, or seek medical advice. Mixed Cough a cough that alternates between being dry (non-productive) and producing mucus (productive). It often begins as a dry, tickling cough caused by throat irritation or inflammation, and then progresses into a phlegm-producing cough as mucus builds up in the airways. In some cases, the pattern can reverse, with a productive cough improving but leaving behind an irritating dry cough that lingers for days or weeks. This type of cough is especially common with colds, bronchitis, or lingering respiratory infections, and may last longer than a single-phase cough. Symptoms of a mixed cough include shifting between phases of dry irritation and mucus production, chest congestion, throat tickling, and sometimes fatigue from frequent or forceful coughing. Because both phases are present, the cough may feel inconsistent, and it can disrupt sleep or daily activities. While the body uses mucus to clear irritants and infection, the dry phase often feels harsher and more difficult to control. Managing a mixed cough usually requires a combination approach — a cough suppressant to calm throat irritation during the dry phase, and an expectorant to thin mucus and make it easier to expel during the productive phase. Mixed Cough and Cold A cough with cold or flu symptoms is part of a broader respiratory illness that affects multiple systems at once. Unlike a standalone cough, this type is often accompanied by nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, or mild fever. The cough may begin as dry, irritating, or tickling but can progress to producing mucus as the infection develops. Because it combines with other cold or flu discomforts, this type of cough tends to be more disruptive and may linger for several days while the body fights off the underlying viral infection. Symptoms of a cough with cold and flu include persistent coughing plus systemic signs such as headache, muscle aches, chills, congestion, and general tiredness. The cough can worsen at night or in the morning due to postnasal drip, making it harder to rest. Relief often requires a multi-symptom approach, where over-the-counter formulas combine several active ingredients — a cough suppressant like dextromethorphan to calm the reflex, an expectorant like guaifenesin to thin mucus, acetaminophen for fever and pain, decongestants such as phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine to ease nasal blockage, and sometimes antihistamines for runny nose or nighttime comfort. Daytime versions are usually non-drowsy, while nighttime versions add sedating antihistamines to support restful sleep. Sore Throat a common condition marked by pain, burning, scratchiness, or discomfort when swallowing. It can feel dry, raw, or irritated and is often one of the first symptoms of a cold or other upper respiratory infection. Sore throats are usually caused by viral infections like the common cold or flu, but can also result from bacterial infections such as strep throat, postnasal drip from allergies, or environmental irritants like dry air, smoke, or pollution. In most cases, sore throats are temporary but can be uncomfortable enough to interfere with eating, drinking, or speaking. Symptoms often include redness in the throat, swollen tonsils, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing, sometimes accompanied by cough, congestion, or mild fever. While many sore throats improve on their own, relief can be found with simple over-the-counter options such as throat lozenges, medicated sprays containing mild anesthetics, warm teas with honey, or saltwater gargles to soothe irritation. Some lozenges also include antiseptic or anti-inflammatory ingredients to reduce swelling. Staying well-hydrated, resting the voice, and avoiding irritants like smoke or strong odors can further support recovery and reduce discomfort. When to See a Doctor While most coughs, sore throats, and cold symptoms improve with time and over-the-counter (OTC) remedies, seek medical attention if you experience: Symptoms lasting longer than 2–3 weeks without improvement. High fever (over 101°F / 38.3°C) or fever lasting more than 3 days. Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or wheezing. Coughing up blood, rust-colored, or foul-smelling mucus. Severe sore throat with trouble swallowing or opening the mouth. Signs of a strep infection (sudden severe throat pain, white patches, swollen lymph nodes). Cold or flu symptoms that suddenly worsen after initial improvement.

Find pharmacist-reviewed OTC remedies for diarrhea at Smart OTC Solutions. Learn how to manage non-infectious diarrhea with simple and trusted tips. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Diarrhea Relief Management of diarrhea involves several options based on the cause and severity and if it a part of other symptoms. Use Imodium® for fast symptom relief in sudden, non-infectious diarrhea. Pair with rehydration solutions (Pedialyte®, Liquid I.V.®, or DripDrop®) to replace lost fluids. Choose Pepto-Bismol® or Kaopectate® if nausea, gas, or stomach upset are also present. Always seek medical care if diarrhea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever or blood in the stool. Find on Amazon Imodium® A-D (Loperamide) Pedialyte® Oral Rehydration Solution Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier DripDrop® ORS Pepto-Bismol® (Bismuth Subsalicylate ) Kaopectate® (Bismuth Subsalicylate) Want to learn more, read the product description below. Imodium® A-D (Loperamide) – Best for sudden, non-infectious diarrhea such as mild food-related issues or traveler’s diarrhea. Works quickly to firm stools but should not be used if fever, blood in stool, or infection is suspected. Pepto-Bismol® (Bismuth Subsalicylate) – Helpful for diarrhea with stomach upset, mild nausea, or gas. Can also support some infectious causes. Avoid in children under 12 and those sensitive to salicylates. Kaopectate® (Bismuth Subsalicylate) – A similar option to Pepto-Bismol for calming diarrhea and digestive upset. Often chosen for multipurpose relief during travel. Pedialyte® Oral Rehydration Solution – Strongly recommended for children, older adults, or anyone at risk of dehydration. Replaces electrolytes and fluids effectively during diarrhea. Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier – A convenient option for adults needing hydration support, especially during travel or outdoor activities. Works well alongside an anti-diarrheal for added fluid balance. DripDrop® ORS – Best for quick and reliable rehydration when fluid loss is more significant. Meets WHO standards for oral rehydration therapy and is suitable for moderate dehydration from diarrhea.