Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medicines that may be sold
without a prescription, in contrast to prescription drugs. The
name "over-the-counter" is somewhat confusing to some, since
these items can be found on the shelves of stores and bought
like any other packaged product in some countries or in others
may be bought "over the counter" from the pharmacy, while
prescription drugs are sold at a pharmacy counter. The term
likely dates back to before self service shopping became common,
when most goods were obtained by requesting them from a clerk at
a sales counter; while prescription drugs required a visit to
the doctor first, these drugs could be purchased "over the
(sales) counter" just like other goods. Some medicines
considered safe in general terms may be available in general
stores, supermarkets, gas stations etc. The rules vary
considerably from country to country. Thus, manufacture must be
done either pursuant to an FDA monograph, which specifies types
of OTC drugs, active ingredients and labeling re