Over-the-Counter Drugs

pharmaceutical products sold through retail channels without a physician's prescription. All products have been approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and information describing any potential harmful side effects is provided on the product's package and label. Advertising must accurately communicate the product's benefits without making false claims. Advertisers usually promote over-the-counter drugs to consumers year-round, even though certain products may be used for sporadic symptom relief at certain times of the year. Cold and allergy remedies, however, are usually heavily promoted during the winter and allergy season respectively.