Over-the-Counter Essentials: What You Should Always Have in Your Medicine Cabinet

Keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet helps you manage minor health issues without an immediate trip to the pharmacy. A basic kit should include supplies for pain, allergies, and minor wounds so you can respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies.

The medical team at First Response Urgent Care provides the following guidelines to help you prepare.

With two Brooklyn offices, the First Response Urgent Care team recommends you start by checking expiration dates twice a year. 

Pain and fever management

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the foundations of home care. These medications reduce fevers and relieve aches from the common cold or physical activity. While both treat pain, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation. We suggest keeping both on hand, as they serve different purposes depending on your symptoms. 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the label, especially for children. If a fever persists for more than a few days, it is time to visit one of our two Brooklyn locations for a professional evaluation.

Managing seasonal and environmental allergies

For those living in New York, seasonal allergies can be particularly stubborn due to local pollen and urban dust. Antihistamines like cetirizine, fexofenadine, or loratadine help manage sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes without causing significant drowsiness. Nasal steroid sprays are also helpful for long-term relief of congestion.

Relief for digestive issues

Digestive upsets like heartburn, indigestion, and diarrhea can happen at any time. Antacids provide quick relief for occasional heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. For more persistent acid reflux, H2 blockers may be helpful. It is also wise to keep loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate on hand to manage sudden diarrhea or nausea. Proper hydration is key during digestive distress, so consider maintaining electrolyte solutions in your pantry. 

First aid for skin and wounds

Minor cuts, scrapes, and burns happen frequently. You should keep adhesive bandages in various sizes, sterile gauze, and antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Hydrocortisone cream is another essential for treating itchy rashes or insect bites. 

For minor burns, we recommend keeping aloe vera gel or a similar soothing agent on hand. If a wound is deep, won't stop bleeding, or shows signs of redness and swelling, our specialists are available at our Brooklyn offices to provide professional wound care.

If your accident or illness requires more than home care, or you are unsure, call one of our Brooklyn, New York, offices today or use the online tool to book an in-person or virtual appointment.