Easy Guide to Stocking Essential Medicines at Home!! -

Introduction

Every family should keep essential medicines at home to safely and effectively handle everyday health problems. A well-stocked medicine kit can be invaluable during sudden illnesses or minor injuries. Whether reducing a fever in the middle of the night, easing a painful headache, or treating a small cut, having the right medicines available enables quick action and helps prevent unnecessary panic. Medicines are classified into two main categories worldwide: over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and Prescription medicines. With numerous options, it can be challenging to determine which medicines are truly essential and how to store them effectively.

This guide will assist you in choosing the right OTC and prescription medicines, knowing when to use them, and Recognizing when it’s necessary to consult a doctor.

What are the OTC Medicines?

OTC medicines are those which we can go and buy without a doctor’s prescription, like for fever, pain, cold, allergy, etc.
Regulatory authorities, such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, determine whether a medicine can be sold over the counter based on its safety and effectiveness.

OTC vs Prescription Medicine – How Do They Differ?

OTC vs Prescription Medicines Comparison

As the name indicates, a doctor must prescribe “prescription medicines,” while you can buy OTC medicines without a prescription.
People often use OTC medicines safely for short-term relief from mild symptoms, such as taking paracetamol to reduce fever.
In contrast, patients with specific illnesses, long-term diseases, or serious health issues generally use prescription medicines. For example, doctors prescribe antibiotics to patients with infections. Patients must carefully follow the prescribed dosage and duration to minimise the risk of side effects or complications.

Which are the Essential Medicines to be kept at home?

Essential Home Medicines Starter Checklist

1. Paracetamol

Paracetamol is very commonly used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain.
Popular brands:
- Crocin / Calpol 500/650: Contains Paracetamol 500/650 mg
- Dolo-650: Contains Paracetamol 650 mg

Paracetamol Safety Checklist

Adults
- Can take two 500mg tablets four times in 24 hours. You must wait at least four hours between doses.
- The maximum is eight 500mg tablets in a 24-hour period.
- If you’re taking 1g tablets, do not take more than four in a 24-hour period.
Children
- The dose depends on weight/age; always consult your doctor before starting.
People with liver disease, regular alcohol use use or abuse of alcohol should use paracetamol only under medical supervision.
Avoid taking Multiple Products Containing Paracetamol.
Many cold and flu medicines already contain paracetamol, and adding another painkiller can unknowingly cause an overdose.
Always check the label before combining medications.

Avoid Double Dosing On Paracetamol Infographics

2. Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
It is commonly used for Pain relief, Body Aches, and Fever.
Popular brands:
- Brufen, and Ibugesic 200 /400/600 tablets : Contains ibuprofen 200/400/600 mg
- Combiflam tablets: a Combination of ibuprofen 400 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg

Safe Use of Ibuprofen at Home

Stick to the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Take it with food or milk.
Patients with a history of allergic reactions—such as asthma, skin rashes, or other issues—to ibuprofen or other painkillers like aspirin should avoid taking it.
Avoid use if you’ve had stomach ulcers, bleeding, or repeated heartburn/acidity.
Do not take ibuprofen if you have recently had a heart attack without consulting your healthcare provider.

3. Antacids

Antacids are drugs that help to balance stomach acid levels.
People commonly use them to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and stomach discomfort.
Popular Brands:
- Digene – Composition: Magnesium Hydroxide + Simethicone + Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose + Aluminium Hydroxide.
- ENO – Composition: Svarjiksara (Shudh) + Nimbukamlam (Shushkam).
- Gelusil – Composition: Dimethicone + Magnesium Hydroxide + Aluminium Hydroxide Activated Dimethicone + Sorbitol Solution.
- Pudin Hara– Composition: Pudina Satva, Tulsi, Coriander, Alpinia Galanga, Achyranthes Aspera.

Ranitidine a Popular Antacid in India: Safety Alert

Ranitidine (popular brands include Rantac, Aciloc, Zinetac) is widely available both over-the-counter and by prescription in India. However, due to concerns about a potentially carcinogenic impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), global drug regulators, including those in the US and Europe, have recalled and withdrawn it from several markets. Although it is not banned in India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has directed the state drug controller to monitor NDMA in the active pharmaceutical ingredient of Ranitidine.

4. Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a group of medicines used to treat allergic symptoms, also known as antiallergic drugs.
They are commonly used for runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, skin rash, and itchy watery eyes.
Popular Brands
- Zyrtec 5/10 Tablets : Contains Cetirizine 5/10 mg
- Allegra 120/180 tablets : Contains Fexofenadine 120/180 mg
- Xyzal 5 /10 tablet : Contains Levocetirizine 5 /10 mg

Antihistamines – DO’s and Don’ts

Take the dose as directed by the doctor.
Do not take two different antihistamines at the same time unless your doctor advises it.
don’t drive or Do Anything requiring Alertness.
Avoid taking alcohol with these medicines as it can make you more dizzy.
Use antihistamines with special precautions in Patients with :
- asthma
- Diabetes
- Enlarged prostate in males
- Epilepsy (fits)
- High blood pressure
- Increased eye pressure (glaucoma)
- Thyroid disease

5. Cough Medicines

Cough medication helps reduce cough symptoms caused by various factors, including colds, allergies, or respiratory infections.
There are different types of cough medicines:
- Cough suppressants – for non -non-productive or dry coughs like Dextromethorphan syrup.
- Expectorants – for Productive or wet coughs, like Guaifenesin syrup.
Some cough medicines also combine ingredients to target multiple symptoms, like congestion or a sore throat.
Popular Brands
- Benadryl, Ascoril D, Ascoril LS.
Soothing lozenges, such as Strepsils and Vicks, are also available to reduce throat irritation.

Safe Use of the Cough Medicines at Home

Always remember to check the label for age restrictions and the recommended dosage of medication.
It’s best to avoid using codeine-based cough syrups without a doctor’s approval, as they can lead to dependence and side effects.
Be careful not to mix different cough syrups to avoid overdosing.
See your doctor
- If your cough lasts longer than two weeks.
- if you notice blood in your sputum or saliva.
- if you have a high fever
- If you have wheezing (whistling sound during breathing) , or trouble breathing

6. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)

Infographic Showing Basic Information about ORS

ORS is a mixture of water, sugar, and electrolytes (sodium and potassium).
It helps prevent dehydration and assists the body in regaining lost fluids and minerals.
People can use ORS during diarrhoea (loose motion), vomiting, fever, and heat-related illnesses.

ORS Usage Tips

Use only the WHO-Recommended Formula.
A few brands in India that have been formulated according to WHO recommendations include Electral, Prolyte, Walyte, and Electrokind.
Prefer boiled and cooled or packaged drinking water for preparing ORS.
Dissolve the full contents of one ORS packet in the exact amount of clean water (usually 1 litre or 200 ml) as per the Instructions given on the pack.
Prepare a new solution each day. Discard leftover solution after 24 hours.

7. Antidiarrheal

Antidiarrheal drugs are used for treating loose motions or diarrhea.
They slow down the movement of the intestines, reduce fluid loss, and help to solidify the stool.
Popular Brands
- Imodium, ROKO, Lopamide Capsules – contains Loperamide 2mg

Tips for the Safe Use of Antidiarrheal Medicines

Always use it with ORS because hydration is vital.
Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Do not use in children < 2 years.
Avoid people with bloody diarrhoea, high fever, or liver disease without consulting a doctor.
Consult a doctor if
- Diarrhea lasts more than 2 days
- Fever
- Blood or mucus in stools
- Severe abdomen pain

8. Antiseptic Cream

An antiseptic cream is an essential part of every home first-aid kit.
It helps prevent infections and speeds up healing.
Situations where it proves useful:
- Minor cuts and scratches – keep germs out of the wound.
- Burns and scalds – soothe the skin and reduce the risk of infection.
- Insect bites and stings – relieves itching and safeguards against infection.
- Skin irritations – soothes redness or minor rashes.
Popular Brands
- Betadine, Soframycin, Neosporin, Cipladine.

Antiseptic Cream: Quick Application Tips

Gently clean the wound with water before applying.
Use a clean cotton bud or a thoroughly washed finger to apply the cream.
Cover with a sterile bandage if necessary.
Do not apply to deep or serious wounds—seek medical advice instead.

How to store medicine safely at home?

✅ Keep out of reach of children – Store in a secured cabinet or on high shelves.
📦 Store in original containers – Labels provide vital information and expiry dates.
🚫 Avoid bathroom and kitchen storage – Heat and humidity can damage medicines.
🔒 Use airtight storage if needed – Especially for moisture-sensitive tablets or capsules.
☀️ Keep away from sunlight and heat – Some medicines lose their effect when exposed.
❄️ Refrigerate only if instructed – Not all medicines should go in the fridge.
📅 Check expiry dates regularly – Safely discard expired or unused medicines.
🗑️ Dispose properly – Never throw into open rubbish; follow local disposal guidelines.

What are other essentials to keep in the medical kit?

🩹 Band-aids (Different sizes) – For minor cuts and scrapes.
🧴 Sterile cotton and gauze – For cleaning and dressing wounds.
🌀 Crepe bandage – For sprains and support.
🧼 Antiseptic solution (Dettol, Savlon, etc.) – To clean or disinfect wounds or injuries.
🔥 Burn cream (e.g., Burnol) – For minor burns and scalds.
👃 Nasal saline spray – For dryness, irritation, or nasal congestion.
📏 Adhesive tape – To secure dressings or bandages.
✂️ Scissors – For cutting tape, gauze, etc.
🔍 Tweezers – For removing splinters, bee stings, etc.
❄️🔥 Ice pack / Hot water bag – For swelling, pain, or muscle relief.
🌡️ Digital thermometer – To measure fever.
💓 Digital BP monitor – To measure blood pressure.
🩸 Blood sugar monitor & strips – If recommended by a doctor.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Before beginning a new medication, your doctor can provide you with important information and address any questions you may have. Here are some helpful questions to consider about your medication:

What’s the name of the medication?
What’s it for?
Is there a more affordable option?
What condition does it treat?
How long before it starts working?
How will I know if it’s working?
Are there any potential side effects to be aware of?
What should I do if I experience severe side effects?
Will it interact with other medicines, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs?
What if I want to stop taking it?
Is it okay to stop suddenly?

🗝️ KEY TAKEAWAY

A well-stocked medicine box guarantees you are ready for everyday health problems at home. Remember, safe use is just as important as having the right medicines. Always read labels, avoid self-medicating for severe conditions, and consult your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

✅ Stay safe. Be prepared. And ensure your medicine box is updated regularly.

📌 Knowing which medicines to keep is good. Knowing how to read a strip is smarter! 👉 Read Blog

Easy Guide to Stocking Essential Medicines at Home!!