What is a common characteristic of over-the-counter (OTC) medications?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are characterized by their availability to consumers without the need for a prescription. This means that individuals can purchase these medications directly from pharmacies, grocery stores, and other retail outlets. Such accessibility allows people to manage minor health issues, like headaches, colds, or digestive problems, without having to consult a healthcare provider first.

In contrast, the other choices highlight certain distinctions that do not apply to OTC medications. The requirement for a prescription, typically associated with prescription medications, is not a characteristic of OTC drugs. Additionally, OTC medications are primarily intended for minor health conditions rather than serious illnesses, which usually require more comprehensive medical intervention. The notion that OTC medications can only be obtained at hospitals is also incorrect, as they are widely accessible at many different types of retail locations, making them easy to acquire for everyday health issues.