Which OTC Health Products Are Best? New Report Claims to Know

The best over-the-counter (OTC) health products are those that are safe, effective, and affordable. A new report from Consumer Reports rates OTC health products based on these criteria, and it reveals some surprising results.

Some of the top-rated OTC health products include:

* Acetaminophen (Tylenol): This is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is safe for most people.

* Ibuprofen (Advil): This is another pain reliever and fever reducer that is also effective for reducing inflammation.

* Naproxen sodium (Aleve): This is a long-acting pain reliever that is good for treating chronic pain.

* Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): This is an antihistamine that can be used to treat allergies, itching, and insomnia.

* Cetirizine (Zyrtec): This is a second-generation antihistamine that is less likely to cause drowsiness than diphenhydramine.

* Loratadine (Claritin): This is another second-generation antihistamine that is also less likely to cause drowsiness than diphenhydramine.

* Famotidine (Pepcid AC): This is an H2 blocker that can be used to treat heartburn and acid reflux.

* Omeprazole (Prilosec OTC): This is a proton pump inhibitor that can be used to treat heartburn and acid reflux.

* Lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR): This is another proton pump inhibitor that can be used to treat heartburn and acid reflux.

The Consumer Reports report also found that some OTC health products are not as effective as they claim to be. For example, the report found that some cough and cold products do not contain any active ingredients that can actually relieve symptoms.

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any OTC health products, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.