HomeHome < Employees < Health and Welfare Benefits < Flexible Spending Accounts < Over-the-counter (OTC) Expenses

Note: These lists are not intended to be exhaustive, they are illustrative only. See the CONEXIS website for additional information.

Examples of eligible OTC items
This list identifies drugs that typically fall into the category of medical care. An itemized receipt showing the name of the drug, date purchased and purchase price is required with the claim.

  • Antacids, anti-gas, laxatives, stomach and intestinal medicines
  • Allergy and asthma medicines, nasal sinus sprays
  • Pain relievers – topical creams and oral medicines
  • Cough drops, throat lozenges, cough syrup, cold medicines, flu relief
  • Nicotine gum or patches (for stop-smoking purposes)
  • Special ointment or cream specifically for burns
  • Antibiotic cream, cortisone cream, first aid spray, calamine lotion, bug-bite medication
  • Allergy eye drops, contact lens cleaning solution
  • Suppositories and cream for hemorrhoids
  • Bandages, first aid kits, cold/hot packs for injuries, rubbing alcohol

Examples of ineligible OTC items
This list identifies items that are toiletries or cosmetics, or items that are typically for your general health. These are not eligible for reimbursement.

  • Toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss
  • Make-up, lipstick, eye-cream
  • Face cream, moisturizers, suntan lotion
  • Perfume, body sprays, deodorants
  • Shampoos and soaps
  • One-a-day vitamins
  • Protein bars

Examples of dual purpose OTC items
This list identifies drugs that may have both a medical purpose and a general health purpose. You must have a doctor’s certification indicating the specific medical condition, the specific treatment needed and how this treatment will alleviate the medical condition.

  • Weight-loss drugs to treat a diagnosed disease (i.e., obesity)
  • Feminine hygiene products (i.e., for use after surgery, child birth)
  • Sunscreen (i.e., persons diagnosed with skin cancer)
  • Joint supplements for diagnosed joint condition (i.e., Arthritis)
  • OTC hormone therapy
  • Prenatal vitamins
  • Fiber supplements to treat a specific medical condition for a limited time
  • Sleeping pills

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