10 OTC Medicines Every Indian Household Should Keep in the Medicine Cabinet

A well-stocked medicine cabinet can be the difference between handling a minor ailment at home and an unnecessary emergency visit. Here's what every Indian household should keep.

1. Paracetamol (Crocin / Calpol / Dolo 650)

The most essential OTC medicine — treats fever, mild to moderate pain (headaches, body ache, toothache). Safe for adults and children (age-appropriate dosing). Always keep 500 mg and 650 mg variants.

2. ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)

Critical for diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration, especially in children. WHO-formula ORS packets (Electral, Enerzal) are available without prescription.

3. Antacid (Gelusil / Digene / Eno)

For acidity, heartburn, indigestion and bloating. Magnesium hydroxide-based antacids work quickly. Keep both liquid and tablet forms for different family members.

4. Antihistamine (Cetirizine / Loratadine)

Cetirizine (Cetzine, Zyrtec) is effective for allergies, hay fever, hives, insect bites and mild allergic reactions. Non-drowsy loratadine is another good option for daytime use.

5. Antiseptic Solution (Dettol / Savlon / Betadine)

For cleaning wounds, cuts and abrasions. Povidone-iodine (Betadine) is particularly effective for deeper cuts. Keep with sterile cotton and bandages.

6. Anti-diarrhoeal (Loperamide / ORS)

Loperamide (Imodium) reduces stool frequency in acute non-infectious diarrhoea. Always pair with ORS to prevent dehydration.

7. Thermometer (Digital)

Not a medicine, but non-negotiable. A digital oral or ear thermometer gives accurate readings. Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) in adults or any fever in infants under 3 months requires immediate medical attention.

8. Calamine Lotion

Soothes skin irritations, rashes, sunburn, prickly heat and mild allergic skin reactions. A must-have in Indian summers.

9. Vapour Rub (Vicks VapoRub)

Provides temporary relief from blocked nose, cough and cold symptoms when applied to the chest and throat. Not for children under 2 years.

10. Multivitamin / Iron-Folic Acid Supplement

Especially important for children, pregnant women and elderly family members. A good daily multivitamin supports immunity and covers nutritional gaps common in Indian diets.

What Not to Keep in the Medicine Cabinet

• Expired medicines — check and discard every 6 months.
• Leftover antibiotics — these should never be self-administered.
• Medicines stored near heat or moisture (keep away from bathrooms and kitchens).

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