The College Student’s Medicine Cabinet

The Student Health Center is a valuable resource if you are sick. (link: Sickness: Clues and Options). Most of the time however, small health issues can be managed with common sense and over-the-counter preparations. Here are some general suggestions:

• Consider personal allergies before taking medications or supplements.
• Avoid taking anything that that has caused a past allergic reaction
• Consider the allergies of others before sharing over-the-counter supplies
• Do not ever share prescription medications
• Keep medications/supplements in the original containers
• Have these items on hand:
  • Prescriptive medications provided by health care professionals for ongoing health issues:
    • Maintain adequate supplies
    • Plan arrangements for refills
  • Generic (non-brand) over-the-counter products:
    • Ibuprofen
    • Acetaminophen
    • Decongestant and/or Antihistamine
    • Antacid tablets
    • Anti-diarrhea agent (tablets or liquid)
    • Menstrual remedies
    • 1% hydrocortisone cream
    • Antibiotic ointment
    • Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
    • Eye drops (moisturizing)
    • Multiple Vitamin supplement with minerals
    • Cough drops
    • Storage container (zip bag, box, cosmetic or shaving bag)