Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are drugs you can buy without a prescription. Some OTC medicines relieve aches, pains and itches. Some prevent or cure diseases, like tooth decay and athlete's foot. Others help manage recurring problems, like migraines.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration decides whether a medicine is safe enough to sell over-the-counter. Taking OTC medicines still has risks . Some interact with other medicines, supplements, foods or drinks. Others cause problems for people with certain medical conditions.

It is important to take medicines correctly and to consult a physician if you have any questions or concerns. More medicine does not necessarily mean better results. You should never take OTC medicines longer or in higher doses than the label recommends. If your symptoms don't go away, it's a clear signal that it's time to see your healthcare provider.

For detailed information about every over-the-counter medication listed with the National Institute of Health, visit: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginformation.html

A prescription drug must be prescribed by a medical professional and is regulated by the government. Those who can prescribe a prescription drug in the U.S. include: physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, veterinarians, psychologists and optometrists.The safety regulations regarding prescription drugs in the United States are overseen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987.

For detailed information about every prescription drug listed with the National Institute of Health, visit: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginformation.html

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that 17.7 percent of adults in the United States said they used dietary supplements, including herbal supplements, in the last 12 months. Herbal dietary supplements, also known as botanical supplements, are one of the most common types of dietary supplements.

As dietary supplements, herbal supplements are defined according to the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. They are intended to be taken by mouth and intended to supplement your diet. Like medications, herbs have active ingredients that can affect the body, and different herbs have very different effects. In addition to the advise of those rating dietary and herbal supplements here at MedsThatWork.com, consider only supplements that have been certified by a recognizable organization, indicating that the supplement has passed certain tests. The Mayo Clinic recommends choosing supplements certified by the U.S. Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, Good Housekeeping or NSF International.

For detailed information about every dietary and herbal supplement listed with the National Institute of Health, visit: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginformation.html