OTC Medication vs. Prescription Antibiotics: What's the Difference?

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Published at March 5, 2025

Our medicine cabinets are filled with different pills and syrups. Some we can buy without a doctor's note. Others need a prescription. Knowing which one to use matters.

This guide will help you understand the difference between over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and prescription antibiotic medicines. With this knowledge, you can make better choices about your health.

Are you wondering if that cough needs a doctor's visit? Or why your doctor won't give you antibiotic pills for your cold? Keep reading to find out.

What Are Over the Counter Medications?

OTC medications are medicines you can buy without a doctor's prescription. You can find them at drugstores, grocery stores, and even some gas stations.

Even though you don't need a doctor to buy them, the FDA still makes sure they're safe when used correctly.

Common Types of OTC Medicines

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