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.

[dontbelieveit]

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

[Bsch4477]

Generally, over the counter medicine except for vitamins is not deductible but maybe a letter from your doctor saying that the products are necessary to treat a diagnosed condition would sway an auditor. Only an amount greater than 7.5 percent of total medical costs can be deducted and only if you itemize. 

[LindaS5247]

In general, over-the-counter medicines are not tax deductible, except for insulin. However, over-the-counter medicines may be paid for by an HSA, FSA Archer MSA or an HRA.

Items like mouthwash and toothpaste are not generally deductible as medical expenses. Although this is a bit of a gray area. If you deduct an over-the-counter medication that your doctor has recommended, you should obtain a letter from your doctor as evidence of medical necessity. This would help provide evidence that the items were a medical necessity in case the IRS should ever question the amounts you have claimed.
 

Prescription medication costs can be deducted, but only if you itemize deductions and your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.

Click here for additional information about medical expenses.

Click here for additional information on the deductibility of medical expenses.

Click here for a medical expense deductions checklist.

Click here for information on medical expenses, see page 16.