adjective
OTC
oh-tee-SEE
OTC (adjective) means Over the counter: describing a medicine that can be bought without a prescription, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or antihistamines. Example: “You can pick up an OTC painkiller at any supermarket.”
adjective
1
Over the counter: describing a medicine that can be bought without a prescription, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or antihistamines.
"You can pick up an OTC painkiller at any supermarket."
"The cream is OTC now, though it used to need a prescription."
2
finance In finance, describing securities or derivatives traded directly between two parties rather than through a formal exchange.
"The shares trade OTC, so the spreads are wide and the volume is thin."
How to use OTC
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething you can buy without a prescription — or a trade made off the stock exchange.
When to use it
Standard in pharmacy, retail and finance. Always capitals.
Memory tip
Under the counter means the opposite of legitimate — sold secretly or illegally.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
OTC medication
OTC painkiller
OTC market
OTC derivatives
available OTC
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You can pick up an _____ painkiller at any supermarket.
Etymology
An initialism of over the counter.
Related words
Rhymes for OTC
See all rhymes for OTC →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between OTC and prescription medicine?
OTC medicines are judged safe enough for people to choose and use themselves by following the label, so anyone can buy them. Prescription medicines need a clinician's authorisation because dosing, interactions or risks require professional judgement. Some drugs sit in a middle category sold only by a pharmacist.
What does OTC mean in stocks?
It means the security is traded off-exchange, dealer to dealer, rather than on a listed market like the NYSE. OTC stocks include many small or foreign companies, and they typically face lighter disclosure requirements and lower liquidity.
Are OTC medicines safe?
They are safe when used as directed, but they are still drugs. Overdosing, doubling up on products containing the same active ingredient, or mixing them with prescription medicines can cause real harm.
What is the meaning of OTC?
"OTC" (adjective) means over the counter: describing a medicine that can be bought without a prescription, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or antihistamines.
