Reading and understanding the label on over-the-counter (OTC) medicine is the first step toward learning how to safely give or use medicine.

Active ingredients, are what make the medicine work. It is especially important to pay attention to the active ingredients listed on the label if you are taking more than one medicine—whether OTC or prescription—to make sure you are not taking too much of the same active ingredient. Too much of an active ingredient can be harmful.

Inactive ingredients are also important, especially if you or a loved one has a known allergy.

For more information on where to find active and inactive ingredients on a label, click here.

Be sure to check out the OTCsafety.org dosing tips for kids and cough and cold remedies.