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Thrifty Crafty Girl

Thrifty Crafty Girl

Health and Wellness · April 22, 2021

Over The Counter vs Prescription Cold & Flu Meds: What’s the Difference?

Although colds and flus are generally not serious illnesses for most people, the symptoms can be unpleasant. Although there are many natural home remedies and Brillia Health homeopathic flu medicine that can help ease symptoms and quicken recovery, some people would prefer to take medications to help them function at home or at work. If you are debating between an over the counter and a prescription medication, it is important to know the differences as well as the similarities of both.

Prescription Requirement

One of the main differences between the two medications is that a prescription requires an order by a physician or other healthcare provider that is able to write prescription orders. An over the counter medication does not require a prescription order.

A prescription is only dispensed by a licensed pharmacist in a retail, hospital, or mail order pharmacy. Over the counter drugs are sold off the shelf in pharmacies as well as drug stores and retail establishments such as grocery and convenience stores.

Diagnosis Requirement

In order for a healthcare provider to write a prescription, he or she must perform an examination and potentially other diagnostic tests to determine what the illness is and what medication is appropriate for treatment. In contrast, a person makes his or her own diagnosis based off symptoms to determine which over the counter medication to take.

Intended User

A prescription drug is only intended for whom the doctor writes the order. This medication is not intended to be shared with anyone else. An over the counter drug can be taken by multiple people, not just the person who purchased it in the first place.

Medication Strength

In general, a prescription cold or flu medication has a stronger type or dose of ingredients that fight the intended symptoms. The chemical ingredients in over the counter medication are typically not as strong as those found in prescriptions. As a result, prescription drugs are used for both minor and serious illnesses, while over the counter drugs are usually only used for minor ailments.

FDA Regulation

One of the similarities that prescription and over the counter medications have is that they are both regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This means the FDA must approve their use and safety and may also recall them if there is a safety concern.

Result of Use

Another similarity is that most prescriptions and OTC drugs are used for symptoms relief. In many cases, especially for over the counter meds, once the person stops taking them the symptoms may return.

Safety

Both prescription drugs and OTC meds come with potential side effects. They also are both harmful if taken incorrectly and may cause adverse reactions if taken in conjunction with other medications, alcohol, or illicit drugs.

Weigh the Pros and Cons of Medication

All medication has pros and cons. When debating between Brillia Health cold and flu medicine over the counter or a prescription option, make sure you understand what the differences and similarities are. Your symptoms may only require an OTC option, or even a natural remedy, or they may be more severe and require a medication order from a healthcare provider.

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Hello fellow brides and party throwers. My name is Lucy and I’m a wedding & events planner. It’s a busy job, with long hours, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world! I absolutely love what I do and I want to share my tips and tricks for budgeting, lifestyle and parties/weddings with other passionate people online. Read More…

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Hello fellow brides and party throwers. My name is Mackenzie and I’m a wedding & events planner. It’s a busy job, with long hours, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world! I absolutely love what I do and I want to share my tips and tricks for budgeting, lifestyle and parties/weddings with other passionate people online. Read More…

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