Essential Medicines

: What are the must-haves in a medicine cabinet?

: Always have medicine on hand for fevers and headaches. If you are prone to an upset stomach, Tylenol is a good. Otherwise, Advil or Motrin, which contain ibuprofen, offer the widest range of benefits. These kill pain, reduce fever, and work best for menstrual cramps and their effects may last for as long as six to eight hours. The generic option of ibuprofen works fine too. Liqui-gel formulations (like Advil), have a slightly quicker onset of action because of how it is broken down and absorbed. They are, however, slightly more expensive, but for some people, it may not be worth the price difference.

Be sure to keep Benadryl (or a similar antihistamine) stocked -- for children and adults -- in case of an unexpected allergic reaction.

Keep aspirin in the medicine cabinet at all times. It can save a life in the event of severe chest pains and prevent a potential heart attack.

Elena Umland, PharmD, is an Associate Professor of Clinical Pharmacy and Director of the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. She is a former Chair of the Women's Health Practice and Research Network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy.