What Do You Really Know About Over-the-Counter Medicines?

Just because a medicine available without a prescription doesn't mean it's safe to take, the FDA says. Take this quiz and learn the ins and outs of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

1. How are prescription medicines different from OTC ones?

A. They contain much smaller amounts of active ingredients B. They don't contain dyes or preservatives C. They're unsafe for use without medical supervision D. They can be toxic

2. You should follow certain precautions when you self-treat with OTCs. What should you do?

A. Know what symptoms you're trying to treat B. Read the label carefully and follow dosage instructions C. Follow any label warnings D. All of the above

3. Aspirin can cause problems with which of these conditions?

A. Asthma B. Bronchitis C. Sinusitis D. Low blood pressure

4. People allergic to aspirin may also be allergic to which other OTC(s)?

A. Naproxen B. Ketoprofen C. Ibuprofen D. All of the above

5. You can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and other OTC medicines such as acetaminophen safely for how long before seeing a healthcare provider for a diagnosis?

A. 1 to 3 days B. 7 to 10 days C. 3 to 5 days D. 30 days

6. Acetaminophen is less likely than aspirin to cause gastric distress, but an overdose of as little as 4 grams can lead to irreversible liver disease. Who is most at risk?

A. People who drink alcohol B. Anyone on a diet C. Smokers D. A and C

7. Antacids often are taken for digestive problems. What is the greatest danger?

A. People tend to overdose B. People take them for longer than recommended C. Antacids affect the absorption of other medicines D. They can have a rebound effect

8. Older adults are especially vulnerable to the side effects of which of these OTCs?

A. Laxatives B. Pain relievers C. Antihistamines D. Decongestants

9. Many OTC medicines for children come in liquid form. What is the best way to measure the dose?

A. Use a kitchen tablespoon B. Use a kitchen teaspoon C. Use a special dosing spoon D. Any of the above

10. What should you look for when you select an OTC medicine?

A. One that helps a wide range of symptoms B. One that helps your main symptom C. One that's a time-release formula D. One that doesn't have red dye

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