This year, Americans will suffer from about 1 billion colds. To be prepared and avoid last-minute trips to the pharmacy, have a well-stocked medicine cabinet.

Every cabinet should have pain relievers, fever reducers, expectorants, decongestants, antihistamines, stomach remedies and a thermometer.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, families should clean out their cabinets once a year and replace medications before they expire. It is important to check labels regularly to avoid taking a medication that has expired.

For the safety of the family, leave medications in their original packaging, separate over-thecounter products from prescriptions and store children’s medications away from adult products. All medications should be kept out of the reach of children and securely sealed.

Keep medicines in a cool, dry place when stated on the label. Medicines should not be kept in places where heat and moisture can alter their effectiveness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every household should keep a list of all prescription and OTC medications, including how much is taken and when. Include vitamins and supplements and share this list with doctors as necessary.

When taking medicine, follow the directions. Take medicines exactly as prescribed or as stated on the label. Read the label every time to ensure proper dosing.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.