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HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON DRUGS

Many non-prescription medications (over the counter-OTC) are not effective or even harmful. There are several which are worthwhile having in the house in case of common illnesses. The generic or store brand is just as effective as the name brand and usually much less expensive.

  1. Acetoaminophen (tylenol) and ibuprofen (motrin, advil) are useful for fever and pain.
  2. The generic forms of Claritin and Zyrtec last 24 hours, are non-sedating and are helpful for allergic reactions, insect bites and itching.
  3. Hydrocortisone cream 1% (cortaid, cortisone 10) helps itching and insect bites.
  4. Pseudoephedrine (sudafed-12hour) helps relieve stuffy noses, but can cause jittery ness and aggravate high blood pressure.
  5. Throat lozenges that you suck on such as Cepacol and Chloraseptic help relieves pain of sorethroats.
  6. Cough and cold medications do not work; sucking on lolipops or sugar candy works better.
  7. An old fashioned vaporizer or humidifier, hot or cold, with water is helpful for stuffy noses and coughs.