As part of our commitment to providing safe and consistent health services across all Rio Rancho Public Schools, the district will follow the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) standing orders for over-the-counter (OTC) medications during the 2026–2027 school year.
If your child may need an OTC medication while at school, the district must have documentation that supports administration of the medication. This may include coverage under an NMDOH standing order or a completed Authorization to Administer Prescription Medication form signed by your child's healthcare provider.
To help families prepare for the school year, the chart below identifies common health concerns that may be addressed in school health offices and the medications covered under current NMDOH standing orders. If your child requires medication for one of the listed conditions, please provide the corresponding medication. If a different medication is supplied, an Authorization to Administer Prescription Medication form must be completed by your healthcare provider before the medication can be administered at school.
Rio Rancho Public Schools Over-the-Counter Standing Order Resources
Health Issue | Medication Named in Standing Order |
Fever (while waiting for pick-up) | Acetaminophen Ibuprofen |
Headache | Acetaminophen Ibuprofen |
Menstrual Cramps | Ibuprofen Naproxen (for students 12 years of age or older) Diclofenac (for students 12 years of age or older) Acetaminophen |
Minor cough | Cough drops |
Sore throat | Acetaminophen Ibuprofen |
Skin protection, treatment and barriers | Moisturizer/Lotion Sunscreen Zinc oxide products Dimethicone or silicone polymer Petroleum jelly Lanolin Glycerin Aloe Vera |
Acid reflux | Calcium-carbonate antacids only* Only for students age 6 or older Tums Rolaids *Note: due to salicylate content, Pepto-Bismal is not included in standing order. The standing order does not cover other OTC medications, such aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids, or H2-blockers or proton pump inhibitors. |
Oral pain | Topical analgesia such as benzocaine, Anbesol, Orajel |
Insect bites | Topical: “Sting Relief” or comparable product Hydrocortisone Cream/Ointment 0.5%-1% |
Mild allergic reaction | Topical: Hydrocortisone Cream/Ointment 0.5%-1% Oral Antihistamine: Diphenhydramine (for students 7 years or older) |
Minor wounds | Topical antibiotics: Bacitracin (with or without polymyxin B) |
Lactose Intolerance | Lactase supplements (for students 4 years or older) |
Thank you for your partnership in supporting the health and well-being of our students. If you have questions regarding medication requirements or health services procedures, please contact your school’s health office.