Stock Your Medicine Cabinet With These Five Essentials December 9, 2024 A well‑stocked medicine cabinet cannot replace a trip to the doctor, but it can be a lifesaver for handling minor aches, pains and everyday mishaps at home. Equipping your medicine cabinet with these five essential over‑the‑counter items will help you be prepared to treat a range of common ailments until you can get back to feeling your best, said Thoms Myers, pharmacy supervisor at Samaritan Pharmacy – 30th Street. “It’s important to have a well‑supplied medicine cabinet for minor needs,” Myers said. “Other helpful items to consider keeping on hand are bandages, tweezers and a thermometer. It’s also important to go through your medicine cabinet at least once a year to check expiration dates and replace outdated medications as needed.” 1. Antihistamines for Allergies Allergic reactions can occur without warning and having an antihistamine on hand can provide quick relief. Medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and loratadine (Claritin) are effective in reducing allergy symptoms from hay fever, as well as the pain and itching caused by insect bites and hives. Don’t forget to get a non‑drowsy option that’s ideal for daytime use. 2. Topical Antibiotic Minor cuts, scrapes and burns are a part of life, especially in households with children. Applying a small amount of antibiotic ointment (Neosporin) helps prevent infections by killing surface bacteria and can promote faster healing. Apply an adhesive bandage over the injury to keep it clean and the ointment in place. 3. Hydrocortisone Cream Hydrocortisone cream can be useful for treating a variety of skin irritations. It can quickly and effectively reduce itching, redness and swelling caused by insect bites, rashes, eczema and other minor allergic reactions. A small tube of 1% hydrocortisone is typically sufficient and is available in a variety of formulations such as cream, lotion, gel or ointment. 4. Indigestion Relief Antacid Digestive issues such as heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux can strike at any time. Having antacid on hand (Tums, Rolaids, Maalox) can offer fast relief and help calm your stomach as a short‑term solution. 5. Pain Relief & Fever Reducer Aches, pains and fevers are common occurrences for all ages. Having medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can provide much‑needed relief for headaches, muscle aches and minor arthritis. Samaritan has six retail pharmacies serving communities throughout our three-county service area — with a seventh opening in Lincoln City in early January! Learn more about our pharmacy services.
