Wellness, OTC Medicines & Supplements

Over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and dietary supplements are often used alongside prescription medications. Even when a product does not require a prescription, it can still matter to the overall medication picture.

When discussing your medicines with a pharmacist or other licensed healthcare professional, include the nonprescription products you use. Some OTC medicines or supplements can interact with prescription drugs, duplicate an ingredient already being taken, or be inappropriate for certain health conditions.

Check the product and the purpose

Before adding an OTC medicine or supplement, consider:

• what active ingredient or ingredients it contains;
• whether another product you use contains the same ingredient;
• whether the label includes warnings that apply to you;
• whether it can interact with a prescription medication;
• whether you are using it for a symptom that needs medical evaluation.

MedlinePlus provides consumer information about prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbs, and supplements and can be a useful reference when reviewing a product.

Product availability

If you are looking for a specific OTC medicine, vitamin, herb, or supplement, call Valencia Town Center Pharmacy at (661) 291-1800 to ask about current availability.

When comparing wellness products, distinguish between a product being sold over the counter and evidence that it is appropriate for a particular health goal. Packaging and marketing do not replace label directions, interaction checks, or professional advice. Homeopathic products should not be used as substitutes for evidence-based treatment of medical conditions.