You may know your local pharmacy as simply somewhere to get your prescriptions filled, but pharmacists can offer a wealth of information, including recommendations on over-the-counter drugs, including common painkillers. "A pharmacist is an accessible healthcare provider who can help prevent incorrect self-dosing that may cause other complications," says Michael Rudolph, Pharm.D., executive director of community pharmacy practice at the USC School of Pharmacy. And since both regular and extra-strength over-the-counter painkillers have varying degrees of minor side effects—including gastrointestinal, kidney and liver problems—improper dosage that exceeds the advised amount can be dangerous. Over-the-counter medications can also interfere with prescriptions medicines, so Rudolph advises consulting a pharmacist any time you have questions.
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