OTC Meds To Bring While Traveling

I am not an advocate of using over the counter medications on a regular basis but I do see the benefits of these medications while traveling as a tourist to certain destinations and giving the travelers much needed medical relief at least for the time being. But one thing that you should always keep in mind is that any medication that you'll be using whether prescription medication or over the counter still needs your doctor's advice. 

All the medications here are for generic symptoms. If the symptoms do persists, no matter where in the world you are, I strongly recommend to consult a medical specialist immediately. If you are on any special medication or have a special condition it is strongly advised to check with your specialist first. You might also need a letter with a copy of the prescription from your doctor if you need to bring your special medications along with you in your travels. 

While traveling here are the basic OTC medications that you should include in your medic pack:

Ibuprofen: is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and treat pain or inflammation caused by many conditions such as headache, toothache, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injury..

Simethicone:  is used to relieve symptoms of extra gas such as belching, bloating, and feelings of pressure/discomfort in the stomach/gut. Simethicone helps break up gas bubbles in the gut.

Ranitidine: is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Over-the-counter ranitidine is used to prevent and treat symptoms of heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach. Ranitidine is in a class of medications called H₂ blockers. It decreases the amount of acid made in the stomach

Loperamide: is a medication that is used for the relief of acute diarrhea and the management of chronic diarrhea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). The effectiveness of loperamide is comparable to another anti-diarrheal, diphenoxylate (Lomotil)

Bisacodyl: is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and certain medical procedures. Bisacodyl is in a class of medications called stimulant laxatives. It works by increasing activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement.

Pseudoephedrine: is used to relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, and hay fever. It is also used to temporarily relieve sinus congestion and pressure. Pseudoephedrine will relieve symptoms but will not treat the cause of the symptoms or speed recovery. Pseudoephedrine is in a class of medications called nasal decongestants. It works by causing narrowing of the blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Diphenhydramine: is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation. Diphenhydramine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Diphenhydramine is also used to control abnormal movements in people who have early stage parkinsonian syndrome (a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) or who are experiencing movement problems as a side effect of a medication.

Again, please consult with a medical professional before taking any medications. It is also important to take note that these OTC Medications are only recommended for Adults. 

I know that one would not wish to encounter any medical emergency of any sort while traveling, but it is still best to be quite prepared when you do travel for those just in case moments. These medications should be taken per symptom that you observe. Most of these symptoms should subside, but if it doesn't and if it gets worse, always make sure that you have the emergency numbers of the places you are visiting at hand. 

Again I strongly wish that all of you have a fun and healthy vacation experience.

Till Next Time...

-Metz-