PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)Federal RequirementsEasy
A patient approaches the pharmacy counter asking for an antihistamine to treat their seasonal allergies. They explicitly state they do not have a prescription. Which of the following is an example of an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine that can be directly purchased without a prescription?
- ALoratadine
- BFexofenadine with pseudoephedrine (Rx strength)
- CPromethazine
- DHydroxyzine
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Loratadine
Loratadine (e.g., Claritin) is a common second-generation antihistamine available over-the-counter for allergy relief.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While fexofenadine is OTC, the 'with pseudoephedrine (Rx strength)' implies a combination product that might be prescription-only or BTC, and pseudoephedrine itself has sales restrictions.
- C. Promethazine is a prescription-only antihistamine often used for nausea and sedation.
- D. Hydroxyzine is a prescription-only antihistamine with sedative properties.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Medications that can be purchased without a prescription, generally considered safe and effective for use by the general public when directions are followed.
- Do not require a doctor's order.
- Available directly from pharmacy shelves or other retail stores.
- Examples include many pain relievers, cold remedies, and allergy medications.
Memory trick: Drugs are either RX, OTC, or BTC, each with rules.