Differences between Over-The-Counter (OTC), Pharmacy Only (P) and Prescription Only (POM) Medicines

OTC Medicines: You do not need to go through a doctor or a pharmacist to obtain these. OTC Medicine can be used safely without medical supervision and are intended for short term self-treatment. Examples include paracetamol for low-grade fever/mild pain,
activated charcoal for diarrhoea, and sore-throat relieving lozenges.

Pharmacy Only Medicines: You can purchase these medicines without a doctor's prescription, but our pharmacists have to be consulted to ensure you get the right medicine for the right condition. Examples include some antihistamines, mild steroid creams, cough/cold, and pain medications. 

Prescription Only Medicines: You can purchase these medicines after obtaining a prescription from a registered doctor. Examples include antibiotics and chronic medications such as blood pressure lowering, and anti-diabetic medicines.

Our pharmacists are well-trained in the classification of medicines. Please feel free to check in with them via WhatsApp on the classification of medicines.