What are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines?

You don't need a prescription for some medicines. These are called over-the-counter medicines, or OTC medicines. OTC medicines are used for mild health problems such as:

• headache
• sore throat
• runny nose and sneezing
• fever
• fungal infection
• upset stomach
• dry eyes

Like all medicines, you should think about the risks and benefits before using OTC medicines. Ask the pharmacist for advice.

Types of over-the-counter medicines

In Australia, over-the-counter medicines can be supplied in 3 ways:

1. general sale
2. pharmacy medicines
3. pharmacist only medicines

Medicines for general sale

You can buy some medicines in supermarkets and health food stores. Examples of these are:

• small packs of pain relief medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen
• vitamins
• complementary or alternative medicines
• sore throat lozenges
• first aid creams for grazes and insect bites

Pharmacy medicines

There are other over-the-counter medicines that you can only buy in a pharmacy. You can find pharmacy medicines on the shelves in the main part of the shop.

Examples of these are:

• cough and cold remedies
• antihistamines
• medicines for heartburn and reflux
• medicines to treat diarrhoea

Pharmacist-only medicines

There are some over-the-counter medicines you can only buy after you have spoken to the pharmacist. This is a legal requirement to sell a Schedule 3 medicine. Pharmacist-only medicines are stored behind the pharmacy counter. You will need to ask for them.

Examples of these are:

• inhalers (puffers) for asthma relief
• mild steroid-containing creams for skin irritations
• the emergency contraceptive pill

Some treatments for colds and flu are also pharmacist-only medicines.

Pharmacists are qualified experts in medicines. Pharmacy staff can give you advice on your health.

What are the risks of taking over-the-counter medicines?

Just like any other medicines, OTC medicines can cause side effects. For example, there are some over-the-counter pain medicines you shouldn't use if you have other health conditions.

Talk to the pharmacist first if you have stomach, kidney, liver or heart problems, or are pregnant.

Some over-the-counter medicines and alternative medicines can interact with medicines prescribed by your doctor. Interactions may stop your medicines from working as expected.

If you take a combination of medicines, including OTC medicines, you may be more likely to have side effects.

Always let your doctor or pharmacist know what prescription, over-the-counter and alternative or complementary medicines you are taking.

OTC medicines sold in Australia are checked for safety by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Resources and Support

A FAQ (frequently asked questions) page about medicine scheduling is provided by The Pharmacy Guild of Australia.

Read more about what the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) does.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.