Here’s how to choose and use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines appropriately so you can get effective and responsible symptom relief: Read and follow the entire Drug Facts label on your medicines. All sections of the medicine label—including the Medicinal Ingredients, Warnings, and Directions—are important to your health. Ignoring the label could lead to unnecessary risks like taking your medicine too soon or taking too much medicine. Know the medicinal ingredients in your medicines. Hundreds of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicines contain the same medicinal ingredients. Taking more than one medicine with the same kind of ingredient at a time can increase your chance of experiencing harmful side effects. By checking every label and knowing the medicinal ingredients, you can avoid accidentally taking more than one of the same kind of medicine at a time. Check every label, every time. New product information is regularly added on medicine labels. Even if you use an OTC medicine often, it is important to read the full label. Follow the dosing directions. The directions are not just suggestions; they are meant to be followed. The directions tell you how much you can responsibly take at one time, how long you should wait before taking another dose, and the daily limit (the amount you should not exceed in 24 hours). Be informed. If you have any questions about OTC medicines, ask a healthcare professional. Visit GetReliefResponsibly.ca for informative and interactive resources, as well as tips and advice from experts on how to use OTC and prescription medicines responsibly.