Headaches, sneezing, or itchy skin — it happens to everyone a few times a year. It usually isn’t a big deal, but when it strikes, it can be really unpleasant and disrupt our daily lives. So what do we do in that case? Come to the pharmacy, bro!
For symptoms like the ones above, we often don’t have time to see a doctor. Usually, an appointment is required, the waiting time is long, and in some countries, it involves additional costs — not to mention the time taken away from other, more seriously ill patients. That’s when we turn to pharmacists and pharmacy staff — the only highly qualified medical professionals you can consult without an appointment, without waiting, and often without even standing in line. Straight from the parking lot, you shoot out your problem and get a solution in minutes. If only life were always that simple.
So, what are the most commonly purchased medications? What health issues trouble us the most?
Statistics show that up to 80% of health problems are resolved directly in the pharmacy — without a doctor. These are mostly issues like minor pain, allergies, colds, or stomach problems. Your back hurts from moving the couch, you ate a suspicious muffin and now have diarrhea, or you lay in the grass and now have a nasty rash — these are everyday situations pharmacists deal with and solve.
To make life easier, here’s a list of the 10 most common OTC (over-the-counter) medications you’ll find in a pharmacy:
1. Ibuprofen
An absolute favorite for pain relief — from infants to Warren Buffett. In addition to relieving pain, it also works against inflammation and fever, especially useful for children. It’s a go-to for both parents of toddlers and people with chronic joint pain.
Note: If you’ve had a heart attack and are on blood thinners, combining them with ibuprofen can increase the risk of bleeding. Also, if you have a sensitive stomach, ibuprofen might not be the best option — there are safer alternatives.
2. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Also relieves pain and reduces fever, but does not work against inflammation. Ideal for mild headaches, slight fevers, or when a child has a temperature.
When not to use it: If you’re doing a TikTok challenge — skip it. Also, if you partied too hard and woke up hungover, don’t reach for paracetamol. In higher doses (more than 10 tablets a day) or combined with alcohol, it can severely damage your liver.
3. Loperamide (Imodium)
A top choice for treating diarrhea. It slows intestinal movement and reduces water loss, normalizing your stool. Great after eating questionable food or when traveling abroad.
When to avoid: Not for children under 12. If your diarrhea started after antibiotics, do not use loperamide — it can make infections like Clostridium difficile worse.
4. Cetirizine / Loratadine
Sneezing, itchy skin, watery eyes — classic allergy signs, especially in spring. These affordable antihistamines handle a wide range of allergy symptoms.
Caution: They can cause drowsiness. It’s better to take them in the evening and avoid driving or operating machinery. There are newer, non-drowsy options like levocetirizine, desloratadine, or bilastine.
5. Pantoprazole / Omeprazole
Whether it’s exam stress or a suspicious meal, too much stomach acid can irritate your stomach lining. These medications reduce acid and protect the stomach. Pharmacies usually sell them for short-term use (up to 14 days).
Warning: Long-term use can decrease magnesium and vitamin B12 absorption — which may lead to muscle cramps.
6. Xylometazoline (Nasal Spray)
Frequently used for colds or allergies. It narrows blood vessels in the nose lining, reduces swelling, and makes breathing easier.
Warning: It can be addictive. Many people become dependent on nasal sprays and struggle to breathe without them.
7. Simethicone (Espumisan)
You’re in a movie theater or at work, and your stomach is about to betray you — loudly. Certain foods or medications can cause gas and bloating. Simethicone helps by gathering gas bubbles and easing bloating. It’s not absorbed by the body, making it safe for all ages — from newborns to seniors.
8. Hydrocortisone Cream
It’s rare to find corticosteroids without a prescription, but hydrocortisone (up to 0.5–1%) is often available. It helps reduce inflammation and itching, commonly used for allergic skin reactions.
Caution: Not for long-term use. Without medical advice, use it for no longer than a week.
9. Electrolytes
A mix of potassium and sodium chloride with glucose — used when you lose a lot of fluids, such as with diarrhea, vomiting, or during intense physical activity. Recently, they’ve become known as “party recovery drinks” for hangovers.
Caution: Heart patients, especially those on diuretics, should monitor potassium levels before using these drinks.
10. Clotrimazole
Antifungal creams are commonly used, especially in summer. Fungal infections often appear between the toes and can be persistent. The cream should be applied even after symptoms disappear, to prevent recurrence.
Final Thoughts
In a recent Instagram poll, over 70% of my followers said they mostly buy painkillers in the pharmacy. In some countries, you can buy many of these medications in regular supermarkets — without a pharmacist or doctor. Still, these meds are not without risks. That’s why expert advice from trained professionals is always recommended before making your choice.
The Hungry Pharmacist 
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