Drugs That You Can Get Over the Counter in the US but Not in the UK

In the United States and the United Kingdom, the medicines available over the counter can differ significantly. What you can freely obtain at a pharmacy in one country might be controlled in the other. 

From sleep aids to cold remedies, here are some everyday drugs that you can obtain over the counter in the US but not in the UK. Keep on reading, as we have explored the possible reasons behind the availability and unavailability of these medicines. That way, the next time you travel, you’ll know exactly which medications to carry with you.

The Greater Reason Behind This Discrepancy

It all comes down to how each country regulates its medications. In the US, it’s the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While in the UK, it’s the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Both take public health seriously, but they assess the risks and benefits of drugs in different ways.

And honestly, we can’t blame them for setting strict rules and regulations. These authorities work closely with their healthcare systems and understand how a drug can help or harm the public. As a result, the laws they enforce are designed with safety in mind and are strictly followed in each country.

That said, it is possible to bring medications from one country to another when you travel. But there are limits. You must stay within the legal quantity allowed and carry a valid, signed prescription for them. Bringing medications in bulk into a country can have you face legal penalties, including fines or even imprisonment.

5 Drugs That Are Available Over the Counter in the US but Not in the UK

A few of the most common drugs that aren't available openly to the public in the UK but are available in the US are:

Codeine

Codeine is a mild opioid often used to manage pain or a persistent cough. You might find it combined with paracetamol in regular painkillers or syrups. In the States, you can still find some low-dose versions available without too much hassle. But in the UK, you’ll need a prescription for just about anything with codeine in it. 

Authorities are especially cautious because of its addictive nature. Studies have shown that even small amounts of it over time can be habit-forming. While it might seem overly strict, the idea is to reduce long-term dependence. So, if you’re travelling and are on codeine-based meds, don't forget to carry along your prescription.

Hydrocortisone Cream

If you’ve ever had a rash or an eczema flare-up, chances are you’ve used hydrocortisone cream. Low-strength versions, like the 1% kind, are sold over the counter in many countries, sometimes right on the shelf. But access can vary. 

In the UK, for instance, you can only buy it after consulting a pharmacist. They’ll ask where you’re using it, how long you’ve had symptoms, and whether it’s the right option. It’s not about making life hard. It’s just to be sure it’s being used safely. Overusing it, especially on delicate skin, can make things worse. It can increase irritation and eventually make the skin thin.

Pseudoephedrine

This decongestant works like magic when you’ve got a stuffed-up nose. It’s found in many cold and flu remedies and works instantly, unlike some milder alternatives. All over America, it’s still sold over the counter, but you’ll probably need to show your ID and sign for it. That’s because it’s been misused to make stimulants such as methamphetamine. 

In the UK, similar restrictions apply, but the products are often reformulated with different, less risky ingredients. In short, you cannot find drugs that solely contain pseudoephedrine. And even if you are in dire need of the drug, you may not be able to obtain it right away. You'll be asked for a prescription or a proper consultation with a doctor to purchase the medication.

Moreover, the authorities strictly monitor how much pseudoephedrine you can purchase. For instance, according to the NHS, you can only buy 12 tablets or 100ml of the liquid form of the drug at a time.

Melatonin

If you are a frequent traveller, you must definitely know the infamous sleep supplement: Melatonin. This drug has always been a saviour when it comes to treating jet lag. And not just for resetting your sleeping patterns, it has also been incredible in improving the quality of your sleep.

Now, in the US, you can get melatonin from almost every pharmacy. You can get them in the form of gummies, pills, and even sprays. In contrast, melatonin in the UK is classified as a prescription-only drug. This is because of the risks of overdose, its long-term impact, and self-medication, especially in kids. 

Diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine is one of those go-to medicines for allergy season, the common cold, or even a restless night. In some places, you’ll find it on drugstore shelves under well-known names like Benadryl. All across America, you can buy this drug without any questions asked. But don’t expect the same easy access everywhere. 

In the UK, for example, it’s usually kept behind the counter, and a chat with the pharmacist is part of the deal. That’s because while it works well, it can also make you drowsy, which some people end up relying on for sleep. This extra step is just about making sure folks aren’t overusing it or using it for the wrong reasons.

Final Verdict

When it comes to medicine, what’s normal in one country might be tightly regulated in another. Some drugs, like melatonin or codeine, are easy to buy across the counter in the US but require a prescription in the UK. That doesn’t mean one country is doing it wrong. It just shows how health authorities balance safety, misuse, and public access differently. 

If you travel often with medication abroad, ensure it’s in the original packaging, within legal limits, and is backed by a prescription. It’ll save you trouble at the airport and possibly with the law.