Over-the-Counter Drugs
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Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are drugs you can buy without a prescription.
It is very important to read the label when using OTC drugs. It is the only way to
know how to use the drug the right way.
FDA passed a law about labels on OTC drugs. The law says that all OTC products
must have a new label called “Drug Facts.” This label will show people the best,
safest way to use OTC drugs.
How is the new label different?
- It will use common words that are easy to understand.
- The print will be bigger, making it easier to read.
- The label will look the same, and be in the same place, on every product.
What will be on the label?
- Active ingredients—what is in the product that makes it work
- Purposes—what the drug is for
- Uses –what problems it is used to treat
- Warnings—who should not take the product, problems to watch out for
- Directions—how much to take, when to take it
- Inactive Ingredients—what else is in the product. People can see if they are
allergic to something in the product.
How will the new label help me?
- It will help you compare products and choose the best one for your illness.
- The product will work its best because you can use it the right way.
- You will have all the information you need to stay away from problems.
To Learn More...
FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research
OTC Labeling: Questions and Answers
Phone: 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332)
FDA Office of Women’s Health
www.fda.gov/womens
2007