Best OTC medicines to buy

[Dana]

You should always have Paracetamol stocked for Analgesia (Pain Relief). People tend to underate Paracetamol because it is OTC, but when used 'properly' (usually QDS) as an Analgesic, it is very good and should always be used as a first-line Analgesic.

Ibuprofen (a NSAID) is also underated. The caution here is that a lot of people cannot tolerate the drug (should not be given to asthmatics) and also it should really be given after food (usually TDS) as the stomach cannot tolerate it. Remember, not only is it a analgesic, but it is also an anti-inflamatory.

Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are two drugs that can be used together (subject to above cautions), ie: Great to use for headaches. Often used in conjunction for post-surgery and Orthopaedic injurys or sprains.

Add to your lists an Antihistamine like Piriton - Can also be used as a sleeping tablet.