How to identify over-the-counter medications?

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medicines that can be purchased without a doctor's prescription, but it is important to correctly identify their safety, scope of use, and precautions. This article will start fromPackaging label, drug classification, applicable symptomsandPurchase channelsFour dimensions are deployed to help consumers quickly identify compliant OTC drugs and avoid misuse or confusion. Key contents include: the "OTC" mark approved by the State Food and Drug Administration, key information on drug instructions, common OTC drug classifications and typical product examples.

1. Identify OTC drugs through packaging markings

The most obvious sign of over-the-counter medicines is the words printed on the packagingThe word "OTC"andOval special logo(Red is Class A OTC, green is Class B OTC). In addition, the drug instructions will clearly indicate "this product is an OTC drug" and list the indications, usage, dosage and contraindications in detail. For example,999 Ganmaoling Granules(Produced by China Resources Sanjiu) The packaging box is marked with a red OTC logo in a prominent position, and the instructions indicate "for relieving cold symptoms." Consumers need to check this information when purchasing and avoid purchasing products without labels or with unclear labels.

2. Classification and application scope of OTC drugs

OTC drugs are divided intoCategory A(Pharmacist guidance required) andCategory B(It is safer and can be purchased in supermarkets). Common Class A OTCs include antipyretics and analgesics (such as ibuprofen tablets) and anti-allergic drugs (such as loratadine tablets); Class B OTCs are mostly topical drugs (such as Fengyoujing) or nutritional supplements (such as vitamin C tablets). Consumers should choose the corresponding category based on symptoms. For example, if you have a mild cold, you can choose Category B OTC. If you have a persistent fever, it is recommended to consult a pharmacist and choose Category A drugs.

3. Purchase channels and risk prevention

Regular OTC drugs should be inPharmacies, hospital pharmaciesorE-commerce platform (requires drug business qualification)Purchase. Avoid using unqualified channels such as WeChat merchants and purchasing agents to prevent the purchase of counterfeit products. Taking e-commerce platforms as an example, JD Pharmacy and Alibaba Health sellIsatis granules (produced in Baiyunshan)All are marked with the OTC logo and provide electronic instructions. When purchasing, you also need to check the production batch number, validity period and company name (such as "Harbin Pharmaceutical Group", "Yunnan Baiyao" and other well-known manufacturers).

Summary and Notes

Identifying over-the-counter drugs requires comprehensive observationPackaging identification, classification attributes, applicable symptomsandPurchase channels. Consumers should develop the habit of reading instructions and avoid excessive dosage or long-term use. If symptoms are not relieved or adverse reactions occur, seek medical attention promptly. The following table lists some common OTC drugs for reference:

Quote sources:
1. National Medical Products Administration’s “Regulations on the Labeling of Over-the-Counter Drugs”
2. "China Over-the-Counter Drug Association OTC Drug Guide"
3. Official websites of production companies: China Resources Sanjiu (www.999.com.cn), Baiyunshan (www.gzbys.com)