How to Read an Over-the-Counter Medication Label: A Quick Guide from Urgent Care in Greeley
- Urgent Care In Greeley
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are easy to buy—but not always easy to understand. Misreading a label can lead to taking the wrong dose, mixing unsafe ingredients, or missing important warnings.
At Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley, we help patients make informed decisions every day. Here's a quick guide to understanding the labels on your medicine cabinet staples.
1. Start with the Active Ingredient
This is the part of the medication that treats your symptoms. Some common examples include:
Acetaminophen (pain/fever)
Diphenhydramine (allergy relief/sleep aid)
Ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory)
Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
Why it matters: You should never double up on products that contain the same active ingredient, as it can lead to accidental overdose.
2. Pay Attention to the Purpose and Uses
This section tells you what the medication is intended to treat—headaches, congestion, cough, etc. Make sure you're choosing the right product for your symptoms. If you're not sure, Urgent Care in Greeley can help you select the most effective option.
3. Follow the Dosage Instructions Exactly
The “Directions” section tells you how much to take and how often. Don’t assume that taking more will help faster—it might increase side effects or be harmful.
If you’re giving medication to a child, use the exact dosing tool provided, not a household spoon.
4. Watch for Warnings and Drug Interactions
This section includes important safety info, like:
Age restrictions
Pre-existing conditions (e.g. heart, liver, or kidney problems)
Interactions with alcohol or other medications
If you're taking multiple medications, and you're not sure what's safe to combine, visit Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley for a quick review.
5. Check the Inactive Ingredients
This is where you’ll find things like dyes, preservatives, or sweeteners—important for people with allergies or dietary restrictions.
When in Doubt, Ask Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley
If you're ever unsure about what medication to take, how much to use, or whether it's safe to mix with something else, we’re here to help. It's better to ask now than to risk a reaction later.
Visit Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley at 1624 17th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80524. Call 970-212-5150 if you have questions about medications—or just walk in and talk to our team.
