Talk to the pharmacist

As I had to learn the had way while traveling, many medications that we're used to buying freely in America are behind the counter in other countries. Meaning, you have to go up to the pharmacist and ask for what you want. This has often resulted in them informing me that there's a better medication for whatever is wrong with me. I've now gotten into the habit of just asking the pharmacist what I should get instead of guessing because I'm not a doctor...or a pharmacist. In Paris, a pharmacist made me take the medicine in front of her and then forced me to drink another glass of water before I left. A little pushy but ultimately helpful! It's quicker, more likely to solve whatever is wrong with you and they can give you the actual correct dosage. There are just some things you don't need to try to figure out yourself, especially while you're sick.