Going to a drug store, there are a bewildering number of over-the-counter remedies. Some of them have the same active ingredient but are sold under different brand names. There are also some supposedly active ingredients that don’t work.
Here is a list of OTC remedies that actually work. Since it took me some time to figure out what belongs on this list, I’m sharing it here. The remedies on the list are available without prescription in the United States and have been proven to be effective:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Loperamide (Imodium)
- Oral rehydration salts (or equivalent like Pedialyte)
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Claritin-D)
- Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Milk of magnesia
- Diclofenac topical (Voltaren)
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Zinc oxide ointment
- Cough drops
- Saline nasal spray
In case you’re not sure whether to take ibuprofen or acetaminophen, use acetaminophen. It’s safer in most instances. Just don’t take more than the maximum dose.
Other items I’d recommend for a first aid kit:
- Band-Aids
- Wound closure strips (Steri-strips)
- Hemostatic/clotting gauze (QuikClot)
- Roll gauze
- Blister prevention (Leukotape P)
- Tweezers
- Needle
- Thermometer
- Nitrile gloves
- Scissors
Nehaveigur 