Can otc products be claimed if needed for ongoing health condition? My husband is recovering from cancer treatments and must use Biotene products for relief.

Forum|Forum|1 year ago
February 4, 2025
1 reply
0 views

Doctor said to use them but they are all over the counter. He does need them for pain relief, hydration, etc.

Best answer by JohnW152

No, over-the-counter, non-prescription products aren't deductible, even if they're recommended by a physician or other health professional.

According to Nonprescription Drugs and Medicines in the IRS Publication 502 (2024), Medical and Dental Expenses:

Except for insulin, you can't include in medical expenses amounts you pay for a drug that isn't prescribed. A prescribed drug is one that requires a prescription by a doctor for its use by an individual.

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in the post

**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"

JohnW152Answer

No, over-the-counter, non-prescription products aren't deductible, even if they're recommended by a physician or other health professional.

According to Nonprescription Drugs and Medicines in the IRS Publication 502 (2024), Medical and Dental Expenses:

Except for insulin, you can't include in medical expenses amounts you pay for a drug that isn't prescribed. A prescribed drug is one that requires a prescription by a doctor for its use by an individual.

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in the post

**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"