Over-the-Counter Drug

What Does Over-the-Counter Drug Mean?

Any medication that can be purchased without a medical prescription is classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug.

Unlike prescription medications, OTC drugs are not limited to being sold in health facilities or pharmacies. They can also be found in other retail stores, such as convenience stores and supermarkets.

Insuranceopedia Explains Over-the-Counter Drug

The Nonprescription Drug Advisory Committee of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for determining whether a drug should be classified as a prescription medication or an over-the-counter (OTC) product.

A drug company seeking to classify a new product as OTC typically follows the formulation of an existing product that has already been approved for OTC use.

Many OTC drugs are designed to treat mild conditions, symptoms, and discomforts, such as mild fevers or headaches.