over-the-counter drug
No prescription needed
An over-the-counter drug is a medication available without a prescription: aspirin, antihistamines, cough syrup.
The term distinguishes these from prescription drugs, which require a doctor's authorization.
The phrase comes from the retail counter where such medicines are sold directly to customers: You can get ibuprofen as an over-the-counter drug.
- self-medicationTreating ailments without consultation
- medicine cabinetSmall bathroom storage for remedies
- analgesicsDrugs that reduce pain
- pain relieverDrug reducing discomfort
- overdose riskChance of harmful excess
acetaminophen · headache relief · FDA approval · antihistamines · laxatives · antacids · upset stomach · fever reduction · cold and flu · sleep aids · ibuprofen · allergic reactions · brand-name drugs · store brand · active ingredient · decongestants · drugstore · diphenhydramine
over-the-counter drugillegal drug
Criminalized intoxicant
illicit substance · street drug · banned substance · contraband · recreational drug
counter, drugged, drugging, druggy, counters, countered, countering, countable, uncountable