Top 10 OTC Medications Every Household Should Have

When unexpected illness or injury strikes, it's helpful to have the right over-the-counter (OTC) medications on hand. At Central Pharmacy, we often get asked which OTC items are best to keep in your medicine cabinet.

In this guide, we’ll share the top 10 OTC medications every household should have, along with how they help and when to use them.

1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Use for: Pain relief and reducing fever

Why it's essential: Acetaminophen is safe for most people and effective for headaches, muscle aches, minor arthritis, and fever. It’s often preferred when avoiding NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) due to stomach sensitivity.

Tip: Follow dosing instructions carefully to avoid liver damage.

2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

Use for: Pain, inflammation, and fever

Why it's essential: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works well for pain with swelling—such as sprains, back pain, or menstrual cramps.

Tip: Take with food to reduce stomach irritation. Not recommended for those with certain kidney conditions or ulcers.

3. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Use for: Allergies, itching, and sleep aid

Why it's essential: This antihistamine is useful for allergic reactions, hay fever, hives, and insect bites. It can also help with short-term sleep troubles.

Tip: May cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery after use.

4. Loratadine (Claritin) or Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

Use for: Seasonal and indoor allergies

Why it's essential: These non-drowsy antihistamines relieve sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion from allergies.

Tip: Safe for daily use. Talk to your pharmacist to choose the best one for your needs.

5. Loperamide (Imodium)

Use for: Diarrhea control

Why it's essential: Loperamide slows down digestion, helping to reduce the frequency of bowel movements during short-term diarrhea.

Tip: Not for long-term use. Stay hydrated and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

6. Antacid (Tums, Rolaids) or Acid Reducer (Famotidine, Pepcid)

Use for: Heartburn and acid reflux

Why it's essential: These medications help relieve symptoms of indigestion and stomach acid. Antacids offer quick relief; acid reducers work longer-term.

Tip: Choose based on your symptoms and frequency of discomfort.

7. Hydrocortisone Cream (1%)

Use for: Skin irritation, itching, and rashes

Why it's essential: This topical steroid is effective for insect bites, eczema, mild rashes, and allergic skin reactions.

Tip: Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Not recommended for use on broken skin or near the eyes.

8. Triple Antibiotic Ointment (Neosporin or generic)

Use for: Cuts, scrapes, and minor wounds

Why it's essential: Helps prevent infection in minor skin injuries.

Tip: Clean the wound first, then apply the ointment and cover with a clean bandage.

9. Cough Suppressant and Expectorant (Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin)

Use for: Cough and chest congestion

Why it's essential: Combination cough medicines help reduce the urge to cough while loosening mucus to clear your airways.

Tip: Look for alcohol-free and sugar-free options for children or people with specific health concerns.

10. Oral Rehydration Solution or Electrolyte Powder (Pedialyte, Liquid I.V.)

Use for: Dehydration from illness or heat

Why it's essential: These products restore fluids and electrolytes lost due to vomiting, diarrhea, or heat exhaustion.

Tip: Especially important for children, older adults, and anyone recovering from a stomach bug.

Bonus: Other Useful Items

While not medications, these items are also important to keep in your home kit:

• Thermometer (digital preferred)

• Tweezers and bandages

• Saline nasal spray

• Antiseptic wipes

• Cold and heat packs

Ask our team at Central Pharmacy for help building a full first-aid or OTC care kit tailored to your family’s needs.

How Central Pharmacy Can Help

At Central Pharmacy, we’re more than just a place to fill prescriptions. We’re here to help you:

• Choose the right OTC products for your symptoms

• Understand proper dosing and side effects

• Learn which medications are safe to combine

• Find affordable options or generic alternatives

Whether you’re stocking up for flu season or preparing your home for everyday needs, our pharmacists are ready to help.

Final Thoughts

Having the right OTC medications at home can save time, relieve discomfort quickly, and help you handle common health issues with confidence. These 10 essentials cover a wide range of needs—from pain relief to allergies to wound care.