The use of OTC medications has become common. Not only do we, as adults, frequently medicate ourselves with OTC preparations, but we give them to our children also. The health professionals and the community at large, often assume that, because these drugs are not regulated by prescription, they are safe, even in overdose. However, the truth may be somewhat more sinister. While some are harmless placebos, others may be causing much more harm than good. Even the ubiquitous paracetamol may slow down the body’s response to viral infections and, in overdose; it can result in liver 4 failure . The present study attempted to determine the level of knowledge of mothers regarding the commonly used over the counter drugs. A survey was conducted among 236 mothers of children between 0-12 years of age residing in Map area, Udupi district, Karnataka. A valid, pretested and reliable structured knowledge questionnaire was administered to the mothers to assess their knowledge regarding the over the counter drugs which were commonly used. The results show that the majority of mothers have average knowledge level regarding the commonly used OTC drugs. The study concluded that, OTC drugs are being commonly used by the mothers for minor illnesses in their children without having the complete knowledge about it. Measures should be taken so that effective health messages could be targeted at mothers and caregivers.