Over-the-counter (OTC) medications Archive

In its 2025 guidelines for treating restless legs syndrome (RLS), the American Academy of Sleep Medicine stopped recommending the long-term use of dopamine agonist drugs, since they can eventually make RLS symptoms worse. Instead, the guidelines strongly recommend another class of medications as the first-line treatment: alpha-2-delta ligands, such as gabapentin (Neurontin), gabapentin enacarbil (Horizant), and pregabalin (Lyrica). Alpha-2-delta ligands do not make RLS symptoms worse.

In the last few years, the prescribing rate for zolpidem, a popular sleeping pill, has been declining in favor of the "off-label" use of an antidepressant called trazodone, which is known for its ability to make people drowsy. But doctors are concerned that trazodone hasn't been well studied for insomnia, it is not FDA-approved to treat the condition, and there are sparse data showing that it is safe or that it works for patients with insomnia. Experts advise choosing medications based on a patient's specific needs, not a trend.

Since its introduction in 1998, catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation has greatly improved, thanks to advances in the instruments, imaging techniques, and energy sources used during the procedure. The resulting increases in safety and effectiveness have transformed ablation into a routine procedure. For many people newly diagnosed with this heart rhythm disorder, ablation is now the first treatment offered.

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against screening for prostate cancer in men older than 70, but as life expectancy for this group increases and treatment options evolve, it's important for men to be aware of their options.

While there are limited studies about the health benefits of cold-water immersions, a 2025 analysis found regular ice baths or cold showers may help reduce stress levels, improve sleep, and increase quality of life.

A 2025 analysis suggested that GLP-1 medications used for diabetes and weight loss are associated with lower risks for an array of conditions, but that they increase risks for several others.

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug ads promoting treatments for arthritis, cancer, heartburn, psoriasis, flagging memory, and more are all everywhere you look. All too often, the information shared is incomplete, biased, or confusing--here's what to watch out for and how to get the whole story when considering treatment options.

In a 2025 study of 1,800 patients undergoing dental surgery, a combination of two over-the-counter pain relievers was more effective and produced fewer side effects than prescription opioids for treating postsurgical pain.