Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medications available without a prescription to the general public and have been recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration as safe if used at recommended doses.

OTC medicines treat various illnesses and their symptoms, including pain, coughs and colds, diarrhea, constipation, acne, allergies, nasal congestion, and others. Unfortunately, as is the case with illegal and prescription drugs, OTC medications can also be abused. Some OTC medicines have active ingredients with the potential for addiction and misuse at higher-than-recommended dosages.