Smart OTCs
Smart Over-The-Counter Solutions 

Smart OTCs disclaimer: Information provided is educational only. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and treatment. We are an Amazon affiliate. Disclaimer This website helps users find the most suitable over-the-counter products for common conditions, based on established OTC guidelines. However, the effectiveness of these recommendations depends on the user’s ability to correctly identify their symptoms. The information provided here is for general recommendations only and does not replace professional medical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, personalized treatment, and questions about your health. As an Amazon Associate , we earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help support our site and allow us to continue providing pharmacist-reviewed content.

Find pharmacist-approved recommendations for Muscle, Back and Joint pain. Learn about anti-inflammatory options and non-medicated solutions Pharmacist Recommended Products for Muscle & Joint Pain These options include oral pain medications such as Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen, topical creams, gels and sprays, heat wraps for muscle tension relief, and magnesium products. For fast relief after activity or sudden soreness, ibuprofen (Advil®) or naproxen (Aleve®) are reliable first-line choices—always take them with food. If you need a stomach-friendly alternative, Tylenol® Extra Strength works well but does not reduce inflammation. For arthritis or localized pain, try Voltaren® Gel, AleveX® Spray, or Icy Hot® for direct relief. Heat therapies like ThermaCare® wraps or reusable pads are especially helpful for stiffness and chronic discomfort. Capsaicin cream is best suited for ongoing nerve-related pain. Natural options such as Magnesium Glycinate may help reduce cramps and support long-term muscle health. Find on Amazon Advil® (Ibuprofen 200 mg) Aleve® (Naproxen 220 mg) Voltaren® Gel (Diclofenac 1%) Tylenol® (Acetaminophen 500mg) AleveX® Topical Pain Spray Goody’s Powders for Reconstitution Icy Hot® Pain Relief Cream ThermaCare® Heat Wraps Reusable Heat Therapy Pads Capsaicin Cream Tiger Balm® Ointment Magnesium Glycinate Want to learn more, read the product description below. Advil® (Ibuprofen 200 mg) – An NSAID that reduces pain, inflammation, and swelling. Best for muscle strains, joint aches, and minor injuries. Take with food. Aleve® (Naproxen 220 mg) – A long-lasting NSAID providing up to 12 hours of relief. A good option for arthritis or ongoing stiffness. AleveX® Topical Pain Relieving Spray – A cooling menthol spray for fast, targeted relief of sore muscles and arthritis flare-ups with fewer systemic effects. Tylenol® Extra Strength (Acetaminophen 500 mg) – Gentle on the stomach, suitable for those who cannot take NSAIDs. Provides relief from sore muscles and joint pain. Goody’s® Powders – A fast-dissolving powder for quick pain relief. Available in multi-symptom, aspirin-free, caffeine-free, and nighttime formulas. Voltaren® Arthritis Pain Gel (Diclofenac 1%) – A topical NSAID gel that absorbs into the skin to reduce inflammation at the source. Rub in well for best effect. Icy Hot® Pain Relief Cream – Creates cooling and warming sensations to soothe muscle and joint pain while increasing blood flow for recovery. Capsaicin Cream – Derived from chili peppers, it works by reducing pain signals in nerves. Effective for arthritis, neuropathy, and chronic pain when used consistently. ThermaCare® Heat Wraps – Air-activated wraps that provide up to 8 hours of penetrating warmth for stiff or aching muscles. Improve circulation and ease tension. Reusable Heat Therapy Pads – Electric or microwavable pads for recurring soreness. Deliver steady heat to improve blood flow and relax muscles. Tiger Balm® Ointment – An herbal rub with menthol and camphor that boosts circulation and reduces stiffness and pain. Magnesium Glycinate – A highly absorbable form of magnesium that relaxes muscles, reduces cramps, and supports recovery with fewer digestive side effects.

Abdominal gas and bloating can be managed effectively with over the counter remedies. Find pharmacist recommendations on products, read tips and find the right solutions for your abdominal discomfort. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Gas and Bloating Management of bloating involves different approaches, from enzymes that help with digestion to intestinal relaxants and ease of gas bubbles release. For fast relief after meals, choose Gas-X® or Phazyme®. For prevention with specific foods, use Beano® (for beans/veggies) or Lactaid® (for dairy). For IBS-related bloating, try IBgard® or Iberogast®. Add probiotics for long-term digestive balance. Always see a doctor if bloating is persistent, severe, or associated with unintentional weight loss or blood in the stool. Find on Amazon Gas-X® (Simethicone) Phazyme® (Simethicone Extra Strength) Beano® (Alpha-Galactosidase) Lactaid® (Lactase Enzyme) IBgard® (Peppermint Oil Capsules) Iberogast® (Herbal Digestive Tonic) Activated Charcoal Capsules Probiotic Supplements Want to learn more, read the product description below. Gas-X® (Simethicone) – A gentle, fast-acting option that helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, making them easier to pass. Safe for frequent use and effective within minutes. Phazyme® (Simethicone Extra Strength) – Provides a higher dose of simethicone, recommended for significant discomfort after gas-producing meals like beans, broccoli, or carbonated drinks. Beano® (Alpha-Galactosidase) – Works preventively by breaking down complex carbs in beans, lentils, and vegetables when taken before eating. Best for people who know certain foods trigger gas. Lactaid® (Lactase Enzyme) – Designed for those with lactose intolerance. Taken before dairy, it helps prevent bloating, gas, and diarrhea from milk, cheese, or ice cream. IBgard® (Peppermint Oil Capsules) – A targeted-release supplement that relaxes digestive muscles and reduces bloating, especially in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Iberogast® (Herbal Digestive Tonic) – A plant-based liquid formula that helps with bloating, abdominal pain, and functional digestive disorders like dyspepsia. Activated Charcoal Capsules – Sometimes used for occasional bloating and post-meal discomfort, but evidence of effectiveness is mixed. Should be taken separately from medications. Probiotic Supplements – Support long-term digestive health by balancing gut bacteria. Best for chronic bloating and gas, but effects may take a few weeks to notice.

Learn how to select the best solution for productive cough (Mucous-induced) with pharmacist-approved recommendations. Make an informed decision. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Productive Cough The options for productive cough include short-acting and long-acting guaifenesin, honey cough syrups, chest humidifiers, chest rubs and N-acetyl-cysteine. For daytime mucus relief, start with guaifenesin products (Mucinex® or generics) and remember to drink plenty of water to help them work effectively. If symptoms are mild or occasional, short-acting guaifenesin can be used as needed, while extended-release formulas provide all-day coverage. At night, honey or Vicks® VapoRub may calm coughing and improve sleep. A humidifier is a great supportive tool to thin mucus and soothe irritation, especially during winter or in dry homes. Avoid cough suppressants with productive coughs—since clearing mucus is important for recovery. Find on Amazon Mucinex Extended-Release 600 mg Mucinex Extended-Release 1200 mg Guaifenesin IR 400 mg Geri-tussin Chest Congestion Syrup N-acetyl-cysteine Humidifier for chest congestion Honey (Natural Soothing Agent) Chest Rubs Want to learn more, read the product description below. Mucinex® Extended-Release 600 mg (Guaifenesin) – Thins and loosens mucus for easier coughing. Lasts up to 12 hours for consistent relief. Swallow whole with water. Mucinex® Maximum Strength 1200 mg (Guaifenesin) – Higher-dose version for more stubborn chest congestion. Provides 12-hour coverage. Best for more severe symptoms. Guaifenesin Immediate-Release 400 mg Tablets (Generic) – Short-acting expectorant that works quickly but lasts only about 4 hours. Good for occasional daytime relief. Guaifenesin Immediate-Release 600 mg Tablets (Generic) – Stronger immediate-release option lasting 4–6 hours. Useful if symptoms come and go without needing all-day coverage. Geri-tussin® Chest Congestion Syrup (Guaifenesin 100 mg/5 mL) – Liquid expectorant that’s easy to swallow. A good choice for those who prefer syrup over tablets. N-acetyl-cysteine- breaks down disulfide bonds in mucous, making it less thick and sticky. Take with food. May cause bronchospasm in people with asthma. Vicks® VapoRub (Camphor, Menthol, Eucalyptus) – Topical rub that creates a cooling effect on the chest and throat, helping ease congestion and nighttime cough. For external use only; avoid in children under 2. Honey (Natural Soothing Agent) – Coats the throat and calms irritation, reducing nighttime cough frequency. Safe for adults and children over 1 year old. Humidifier – Adds moisture to the air, loosening thick mucus and easing post-infection or lingering cough. Especially helpful in dry environments.

Find trusted pharmacist insights on skin rashes at Smart OTCs. Learn effective OTC solutions, symptom care strategies, and safe skin health guidance. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Skin Rash Skin rash comes from irritation or allergy, both topical and oral solutions could be used to alleviate and treat rash. For red, itchy flare-ups, start with hydrocortisone cream. For blistering or oozing rashes, use calamine lotion. Add moisturizers for dry or irritated skin. Use talc powder to help remove excessive moisture and prevent new rashes. If itching is widespread, consider an oral antihistamine. See a doctor if the rash spreads quickly, is painful, or comes with fever. Find on Amazon Hydrocortisone 1% Cream Calamine Lotion Oral Antihistamines Moisturizers & Barrier Creams Talc Powder Want to learn more, read the product description below. Hydrocortisone 1% Cream – A mild topical steroid that reduces redness, swelling, and itching. Best for short-term use on inflamed or itchy rashes. Calamine Lotion – Soothes oozing or blistering rashes, such as poison ivy or insect bites, while drying irritation. Moisturizers & Barrier Creams – Petrolatum ointments and fragrance-free lotions restore moisture and protect the skin barrier, especially for dry or flaky rashes. Oral Antihistamines (Diphenhydramine, Cetirizine) – Help relieve itching caused by allergic skin reactions. Some may cause drowsiness. Talc Powder – Absorbs moisture and reduces friction, preventing rash formation in sweaty or high-friction areas.

There are several over the counter solutions for Eczema, but it depends on severity, location, and other factors. Learn more with pharmacist-approved recommendations. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Eczema and thick skin Thick skin and eczema are treated with keratolytics, exfoliating agents and moisturizers to maintain skin health. For thick, cracked heels or rough skin, urea-based creams (like Kerasal® or PurSources® Urea 40%) are usually the most effective. If your skin is dry but not severely thickened, Exfoliating creams that contain Ammonium lactate or glycolic acid creams can smooth and hydrate while gently exfoliating. For eczema-prone or sensitive skin, ceramide-rich moisturizers (CeraVe®, Vanicream®, or Eucerin®). Barrier ointments (Aquaphor® or Vaseline®) are the safest and most protective. Use ointments overnight for deep repair. Always start gradually with acid-containing creams if irritation occurs, and apply moisturizers or ointments after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. Find on Amazon Urea cream 40% with salicylic acid for eczema. Kerasal® Intensive Foot Repair Foot care Urea cream 60% Exfoliating creams (Ammonium Lactate 12%) Ceramide- rich moisturizers Barrier ointments (Aquaphor® or Vaseline®) Skin Texture enhancers(Glycolic acid containing products) Want to learn more, read product description below. Keratolytics such as Urea (40%) with Salicylic Acid form a strong exfoliating combination that effectively softens thickened, callused, or cracked skin. Higher concentrations, like 40%, work best for stubborn rough areas on the feet and heels, while lower strengths (10–20%) are ideal for maintaining smooth, hydrated skin on less affected areas. Exfoliating products containing Lactic Acid (Ammonium Lactate 12%), commonly found in creams like Amlactin®, act as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate dead skin while retaining moisture. They are particularly helpful for treating keratosis pilaris (“chicken skin”), rough patches, and dryness on the arms or legs. Skin texture enhancers with Glycolic Acid provide gentle exfoliation to improve overall skin texture, tone, and smoothness. Found in lotions and creams such as Glytone® Exfoliating Body Lotion and Alpha Skin Care® Renewal Lotion, these products are best suited for cosmetic dryness, keratosis pilaris, or uneven skin on both the face and body. When it comes to moisturizers and barriers, ceramide-containing products play a crucial role in rebuilding and strengthening the skin barrier while locking in hydration. Examples include CeraVe® Moisturizing Cream, Vanicream® Moisturizing Cream, and Eucerin® Advanced Repair Cream. These are especially useful for managing chronic dryness, preventing eczema, and providing daily care for sensitive skin. Lastly, barrier ointments and occlusives like Aquaphor® Healing Ointment, Vaseline® Petroleum Jelly, and CeraVe® Healing Ointment form a protective layer that locks in moisture and promotes healing of cracks and dry patches. They are excellent choices for severe dryness, cracked heels, and eczema flare-ups—particularly when applied overnight with cotton socks or gloves to maximize absorption and repair.

There are many over the counter medications for constipation. Learn how to select the one that best fits your condition with pharmacist-approved recommendations. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Constipation Management of constipation is based on the type of constipation, products work different ways to tackle the issue. Use stool softeners for hard stool to pass, or if you have hemorrhoids. Use stimulant laxatives (Senna, Bisacodyl) short-term for lazy intestine or after using opioids or other medications that slow the intestinal movement. They come in tablets or suppositories, which are faster in action. Use the combination ( Senna + Docusate) if you have tried Both and none of them is effective alone. Use Psyllium Fiber if you need to add a bulk to your stool to help the intestine pass it, could be used long-term to help regulate the intestinal movement. Use Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) to create a bulk stool and make it softer to pass. Milk of Magnesia provides faster relief, but for occasional use. Fleet® Saline Enema can be used for urgent relief of constipation. Find on Amazon Stool Softner (Docusate sodium) Senna (e.g., Senokot®) Psyllium Fiber (e.g., Metamucil®) Polyethylene Glycol(PEG)(e.g., MiraLAX®) Bisacodyl (e.g., Dulcolax®) Senna + Docusate (e.g., Senokot-S®) Milk of Magnesia Fleet® Saline Enema Want to learn more, read the product description below. Docusate Sodium (e.g., Colace® Stool Softener) When to use: Best if stools are hard, dry, and painful to pass. Often recommended after surgery, childbirth, or with hemorrhoids to reduce straining. Works gradually over 12–72 hours and is safe for longer-term use. Senna (e.g., Senokot®) When to use: Helpful for occasional constipation when a faster result is needed. Works in 6–12 hours, often taken at night for a morning bowel movement. Not for long-term daily use without medical guidance. Bisacodyl (e.g., Dulcolax® Tablets or Suppositories) When to use: Effective for short-term relief of constipation that hasn’t improved with stool softeners or fiber. Oral tablets work in 6–12 hours; suppositories act within 15–60 minutes. Avoid regular use to prevent dependence. Senna + Docusate (e.g., Senokot-S®, Senna-S) When to use: Useful if stools are both infrequent and hard. Combines a stool softener with a stimulant laxative for more stubborn constipation. Works in 6–12 hours but should be used short term. Psyllium Fiber (e.g., Metamucil®) When to use: Best for daily prevention and management of chronic constipation. Adds bulk and softness to stool and may also improve cholesterol levels. Requires good hydration and may take 1–3 days to work. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (e.g., MiraLAX®) When to use: Suitable for more frequent or chronic constipation when gentle, longer-term support is needed. Works in 1–3 days and can be used safely under provider guidance. Milk of Magnesia When to use: Provides faster relief (30 minutes to 6 hours) by drawing water into the intestines. Good for occasional use, but avoid if you have kidney problems unless directed by a healthcare provider. Fleet® Saline Enema When to use: Best for urgent relief when oral medications have not worked. Produces results within minutes. Not recommended for daily or frequent use.

Smart OTC answers your feminine hygiene questions with pharmacist guidance on safe products, intimate care tips, and effective OTC solutions. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Yeast Infection & Feminine Health Yeast infection treatment and prevention can be achieved with over the counter options, select the product that best fits your need. Choose Monistat® 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day depending on your tolerance to side effects. Use pH-balancing washes or gels to support comfort during and after antifungal therapy. Consider probiotics or boric acid suppositories for ongoing prevention if infections recur. Always seek medical care if symptoms don’t improve after treatment, return frequently, or are accompanied by fever, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge. Find on Amazon Monistat® 1 (Tioconazole 1200 mg) Monistat® 3 (Miconazole 200mg/d) Monistat® 7 (Miconazole 100mg/d) pH-Balanced Washes & Wipes Rephresh® Vaginal Gel Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories AZO® Complete Feminine Balance AZO® Yeast Plus Want to learn more, read the product description below. Monistat® 1 (Tioconazole 1200 mg) – A single-dose, high-strength antifungal cream for fast yeast infection relief. Best for those wanting the shortest treatment course. Monistat® 3 (Miconazole 200 mg/day) – A three-day antifungal option that balances quick symptom relief with a more gradual dosing schedule. Monistat® 7 (Miconazole 100 mg/day) – A seven-day low-dose treatment, often preferred for sensitive users, pregnant women (with provider approval), or those with recurring infections. pH-Balanced Feminine Washes & Wipes – Fragrance-free cleansers that maintain vaginal pH and reduce odor without disrupting natural flora. Rephresh® Vaginal Gel – A pH-restoring gel that provides up to 3 days of balance, often used after menstruation, sex, or yeast infection treatment. Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories – Help restore vaginal acidity and may prevent recurrent yeast or bacterial imbalance. Not recommended during pregnancy. AZO® Complete Feminine Balance – A daily probiotic supplement that supports a healthy vaginal microbiome and stable pH to reduce recurrence risk. AZO® Yeast Plus – A homeopathic product aimed at relieving yeast-related itching, burning, odor, and discharge. Should be paired with antifungal treatment if infection is present.

Find trusted pharmacist insights on red & itchy eyes at Smart OTCs. Learn effective OTC solutions, symptom relief strategies, and safe eye care tips. Pharmacist Recommended Products for Red/Itchy Eye Eye allergies and irritation can cause redness, itching, tearing, and swelling, often triggered by pollen, dust, pet dander, smoke, or environmental factors. The right choice depends on whether your main concern is itching from allergies or redness from irritation. For allergy-related itching, start with an antihistamine eye drop such as Zaditor®, Pataday®, or Lastacaft® depending on how long-lasting you need relief. If redness is your main concern, Lumify® is the safest choice for repeated use, while Visine® and Clear Eyes® are best for occasional cosmetic improvement. Use Opcon-A® when both itching and redness are present but keep it short-term. Always wash your hands before using eye drops, and avoid sharing bottles to prevent contamination. Find on Amazon Zaditor® Eye Drops (Ketotifen) Pataday® Once Daily(Olopatadine) Lastacaft® Once Daily (Alcaftadine) Opcon-A®(Pheniramine+Naphazoline) Visine® Original (Tetrahydrozoline) Clear Eyes® (Naphazoline) Lumify® (Brimonidine) Want to learn more, read the product description below. Allergy Eye Drops Zaditor® (Ketotifen) – Works within minutes to block histamine release and prevent symptoms like itching, tearing, and swelling. Provides up to 12 hours of relief and is safe for daily use in adults and children ages 3+. Pataday® Once Daily Relief (Olopatadine) – A long-acting antihistamine that offers 24 hours of relief with a single daily dose. Effective for both seasonal and year-round allergies, safe for children ages 2+. Lastacaft® (Alcaftadine) – Fast-acting, with itch relief in as little as 3 minutes and effects lasting up to 16 hours. Designed for once-daily use, safe for children ages 2+. Combination Drops (Antihistamine + Decongestant) Opcon-A® (Pheniramine + Naphazoline) – Relieves itching and reduces redness by shrinking blood vessels. Works quickly, best for short-term use during peak allergy flare-ups. Redness Relief Drops Visine® Original (Tetrahydrozoline) – Fast-acting redness reliever that works within a minute but best reserved for occasional use to avoid rebound redness. Clear Eyes® Redness Relief (Naphazoline) – Provides visible redness reduction with added lubrication for dryness. Works quickly for several hours. Lumify® (Brimonidine) – FDA-approved redness reliever that brightens eyes within a minute and lasts up to 8 hours. Lower risk of rebound redness compared to older vasoconstrictors. When to See a Doctor Seek medical advice if eye redness or itching is persistent, worsens despite treatment, or is accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, sensitivity to light, or thick discharge. These may signal infection or another eye condition requiring professional care.