Over the counter medications are those medicines that are sold directly to the consumer/patient without any prescription from a medical advisor, as compared to prescription drugs that are sold after showing a valid prescription. Over the counter medicines say OTC medicines are elected by the drug regulatory bodies to ensure the effectiveness and safety regarding usage.
Few medications such as antacids, anti-allergens, pain-killers and drugs for quitting smoking are available over-the-counter without any prescription. These over the counter medicines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and World Health Organization (WHO), and are considered as essential drugs that are required for basic health system.