Somehow, a prescription drug seems more dangerous than one that you can simply pick up in the aisle of your nearest drugstore or supermarket. But in reality, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies can also be dangerous. For instance, taking more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) a day — the equivalent of eight extra-strength tablets — can lead to liver damage, even death.

When you do buy over-the-counter medications, read the labels carefully. Some might contain ingredients you should not be taking. Certain ingredients might interact with your other medications or cause an allergic reaction. Others might not be appropriate for treating your symptoms. If you have any trouble selecting the right product, always ask the pharmacist for help.