Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, also referred to as non-prescription drugs, are medicines that can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription. These health products are commonly used for managing minor aches, pains, colds, or fevers and are generally considered safe when used according to the instructions on their label. In Canada, OTC medications are subject to regulation to ensure their safety and minimize health risks for Canadians and others purchasing Canadian drugs.
Although OTC medications are generally deemed safe, it is crucial to be aware of potential risks, such as allergies to specific medications or certain drugs that may be unsuitable for children, the elderly, or pregnant or breastfeeding women. When acquiring OTC medications from Canadian pharmacy, it is essential to thoroughly read the label or accompanying information before using the medicine. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional. Using non-prescription drugs for a longer duration or more frequently than recommended on the label is not advised.
Our Categories of OTC Medications (Over-the-counter) / Non-Prescription
Analgesics
These medications help relieve pain, such as headaches, toothaches, or muscle aches. Examples include ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen.
Antacids
These drugs neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and acid indigestion. Examples include calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide.
Antihistamines
These medications help relieve allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Examples include cetirizine, loratadine, and diphenhydramine.
Decongestants
These medications help relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections. Examples include pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, and oxymetazoline.
Anti-diarrheal
These drugs help manage diarrhea by slowing down bowel movements. Examples include loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate.
Laxatives
These medications are used to treat constipation by stimulating bowel movements. Examples include bisacodyl, senna, and magnesium hydroxide.
Cough suppressants and expectorants
These drugs help manage coughs by either suppressing the cough reflex or loosening mucus in the airways. Examples include dextromethorphan (cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (expectorant).
Topical medications
These include creams, ointments, and gels applied directly to the skin to treat various conditions, such as minor cuts, burns, or skin irritations. Examples include hydrocortisone cream, antibiotic ointments, and calamine lotion.
List of Canadian Pharmacy Non-Prescription Products
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym)
- Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Meclizine (Dramamine, Bonine)
- Ranitidine (Zantac)
- Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Calcium Carbonate (Tums, Rolaids)
- Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
- Loperamide (Imodium)
- Dimenhydrinate (Gravol)
- Hydrocortisone (Cortizone 10, Cortaid)
- Triple Antibiotic Ointment (Neosporin)
- Clotrimazole (Canesten, Lotrimin)
- Miconazole (Monistat, Micatin)
- Terbinafine (Lamisil)
- Benzoyl Peroxide (Clearasil, Proactiv)
- Salicylic Acid (Compound W, Clearasil)
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Docusate Sodium (Colace)
- Sennosides (Senokot)
- Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
- Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Miralax)
- Milk of Magnesia (Phillips’)
- Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylicon)
- Glucose (BD Glucose)
- Niacinamide (Nicotinamide)
- Zinc Oxide (Desitin)
- Calamine Lotion
- Witch Hazel (Tucks, Preparation H)
- Melatonin
- Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Omega-3 Fish Oil
- Probiotics (Culturelle, Align)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
- Folic Acid
- Calcium (Caltrate, Citracal)
- Iron (Ferrous Sulfate)
- Potassium (Klor-Con, Micro-K)
- Magnesium (Mag-Ox, Slow-Mag)