The other main group of diseases comprises the gastroenterological illnesses that afflict a considerable proportion of the population. On average, one in three people suffers from heartburn at least once a week, as the result of increased digestive acid production, or often from a failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter to function properly, more commonly known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. The symptoms can be alleviated relatively quickly through the use of antacids, but medicines that treat the underlying cause are far more effective. One such product is Quamatel MINI Film Tablets, containing famotidine, which reduces both the concentration and the rate of production of digestive acid. It is effective in the treatment of heartburn and other complaints that result from the oversecretion of digestive acid, and in alleviating related stomach pain.  By taking the Quamatel MINI Film Tablet an hour before eating, it is also possible to prevent the after-meal increase in digestive acid. Its effects can last for up to nine hours, so one tablet a day is sufficient for the alleviation or prevention of symptoms.

Another extremely common problem, the fungal infections that afflict some 15-30% of the population, is pandemic in Hungary. It is a sad fact that only 3% of sufferers seek medical advice, despite the fact that this is an infectious disease. The sooner the treatment of fungal infections is begun, the less danger there is of the infection spreading further. Terbisil 1% Cream is a highly efficacious preparation for the external treatment of fungal dermatological infections. It is effective in treating not only the most common, foot, infections, but also those that occur in creases or any other areas of the skin, as well as the yeast infection Tinea versicolor, otherwise known as “sun fungus.” The healing process takes no more than a week (except in the case of sun fungus, where a two-week course of treatment is required), because its active ingredient is Terbinafine, which not only inhibits the reproduction of the fungi, but also destroys them, considerably reducing the danger of the infection recurring. The effects of Terbisil cream last even after the course of treatment is completed.

(To ensure the treatment’s effectiveness, and to avoid re-infection, it is important to adhere to the basic rules of hygiene: keep the infected area clean, always wash your hands after the treatment, do not share your towel, and change your underwear frequently. It is also advisable to wear cotton socks, and to disinfect footwear.)

But our skin is not only under threat from bacterial infection. Mechanical, chemical or heat-related injuries are also a common occurrence. According to a recent survey, in Hungary today some 30 million grazes, 20 million cuts and 5 million household burns are sustained every year. This means that there is a relatively common need for an antiseptic preparation to treat wounds of this nature.

The only original Hungarian active ingredient to be developed in the 1990s, Zinc-hyaluronate, was developed by Richter’s research team, based on the already known effects of hyaluronic acid and zinc on the healing of wounds. For the treatment of minor household injuries such as grazes, cuts, scratches and 1^st and 2^nd degree burns, as well as sunburn, Curiosa Wound Care Gel was introduced, which, with its state-of-the-art ingredients, accelerates the healing process and prevents infection. Curiosa is a crystal-clear gel, free of colourings and aromas. It can be applied directly to the injured area, and does not sting, but gently soothes and cools the skin.

As we have already mentioned, another means of looking after your health is to take vitamin supplements. Of course, it is still possible to fall ill despite this, but even then the use of these products can shorten the time it takes to recover.

As with all medicines, OTC medicines should be used with care.