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.

[JohnW152 · Accepted solution]

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.

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