Understand your medicine labels

OTC pain relievers have differences that could matter to your health—such as their ingredients, warnings, and directions. Know where to find this important information by using this guide to your labels.

Drug Facts help you understand how to choose and use your medicines safely

  1. Keep your cartons. Why?

    • The Drug Facts label on OTC medicine cartons, or the pull-out label on some bottles, contains complete warnings and product information

  2. Read and follow the entire Drug Facts label. Why?

    • The Drug Facts label contains more than directions. It includes other important information that could matter to your health

  3. What else you can do

    • If provided, use only the dosing device that comes with your medicine

    • Take ONLY 1 medicine that contains the same kind of active ingredient at a time. Why?

      - If you take more than 1 medicine with the same kind of active ingredient, it can increase your chance of harmful side effects