Nonprescription medicine precautions

Be sure to follow these nonprescription medicine precautions.

  • Carefully read and follow all label directions on the medicine bottle and box.
  • Take, but do not exceed, the maximum recommended doses.
  • Do not take a medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
  • If you have been told to avoid a medicine, call your doctor before you take it.
  • If you are or could be pregnant, call your doctor before taking any medicine.
  • Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20 unless your doctor tells you to because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.

Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BSLast Updated: August 28, 2007
Medical Review: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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