Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet ensures that you won't be caught off guard when someone in your family comes down with a cold, headache, allergies,
upset stomach, or some other ailment. However, many people are unsure of what they should stock in the medicine cabinet. Below is some information to help you fill your medicine cabinet and be prepared for almost any situation.
Medicine Cabinet Must-Haves
Some of the items you should keep in your medicine cabinet at all times include:
Pain medication - Pain medications may include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin. These medications also reduce fever. Keep in mind that children under the age of 12 should not take aspirin because it is associated with a risk of Reye Syndrome. If you have children under this age, make sure you have another pain or fever reliever on hand.
Allergy medication - Allergy medicine, such as Benadryl and itch-relieving eye drops, are another important staple to keep in the medicine cabinet.
Cold medication - Cold medications may include expectorants, decongestants, and cough suppressants. In some cases, you may choose to purchase cold medications with a combination of ingredients.
First aid supplies - Another important category of items to keep in stock at all times are first aid supplies. Be sure that you have alcohol swabs, hydrogen peroxide, antibacterial ointment, burn cream, gauze pads, and band-aids.
Anti-nausea medication - Anti-nausea medications, such as those intended for motion sickness or an upset stomach, are also good to have on hand.
Anti-diarrheal medication - Anti-diarrheal medication is a helpful item to have on hand when someone in your family develops diarrhea because of a virus or another cause.
Sunscreen - Every member of your family should wear sunscreen on exposed skin when spending time in the sun.
Insect repellent - Insect repellent keeps certain insects, such as mosquitoes, away from you and your family. Having it on hand will prevent unwanted bites or last-minute shopping trips.
Hydrocortisone cream - Hydrocortisone cream is useful for treating insect bites, stings, and other skin irritations. If you have children, make sure that you purchase and use only age-appropriate medicines. For example, both cold medicines and allergy medicines come in forms appropriate for children or adults. To avoid side effects or bad reactions, it's important to follow all of the instructions on the medicine packaging at all times.
Stocking Your Medicine Cabinet on a Budget
Over-the-counter medications and other supplies for your medicine cabinet can be expensive. However, you can reduce the strain on your budget by purchasing these items before you need them, which allows you to be more selective about when and where you buy. To buy the medications you need at a lower cost, watch for sales and/or coupons, and consider purchasing your medications at wholesale clubs and other low-price stores. To get the best price possible, do some comparison shopping before you make the purchase.
