10 essential Medicines to Keep at Home

@finaldayshope

1. Paracetamol

It is commonly used OTC medication for fever, minor aches, and pain.

2. Antacid

If an individual experiences heartburn or pain or bloating, it is likely that the digestive acids present in the stomach are causing the problem. In such a case, an antacid can be taken to neutralize the harmful effects of acid and aid digestion.

3. Antihistamine

Avil and Cetzine are two commonly available antihistamines that can be taken to ease the symptoms caused by allergic reactions. It is important to note that these tend to cause mild drowsiness.

4. Nasal decongestants

Nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms of cold and sinusitis. To relieve the stuffy or congested nose, OTC medicines such as nasal decongestants can be taken.

5. Antitussive lozenges

In most cases, a cough or a cold is accompanied by itching or sore throat. Although the intake of antibiotics can help relieve the underlying infection, it is also essential to use medications that can relieve discomfort in the throat.

6. Antiseptic ointment

The ointment or solution can help prevent any minor scrapes, wounds, or cuts from getting infected with bacteria or other microorganisms. Example – Dettol and Savlon

7. Antifungal medications

These used to treat fungal infections that affect skin, hair and nails. Some of the common fungal infections are ringworm, athlete’s foot, candidiasis, vaginal thrush, etc. Antifungal medications work by directly killing fungal cells or by preventing fungal cells from growing and thriving.

8. Anti-sickness medications

Anti-sickness medications such as domperidone and meclizine hydrochloride help in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, which can otherwise trigger the feeling of being sick.

9. Topical ointments for burns

Ointments containing silver nitrate, amorphous hydrogel, silver sulfadiazine, or aminacrine HCl help in treating minor, first-degree burns that affect the outermost layer of the skin. These medications have antimicrobial properties, which exacerbate the healing and prevent further infection.

Aspirin

Aspirin, or salicylic acid, is one of the most well-known OTC medications for aches and pains. It is also sometimes used to get relief from inflammation, cold, and fever. Owing to its anti-blood-clotting properties, the medication is also one of the first-line emergency treatments for heart attack and stroke.