Close-up of a wellness vending machine stocked with OTC medications, self-tests, and personal care items

What to Stock in a Wellness Vending Machine: A Campus Guide

When colleges consider wellness vending machines, one of the biggest questions is: what should we stock? The right mix of products ensures students get the care they need, when they need it, without the barriers of scheduling clinic visits or leaving campus.

According to the Journal of American College Health, students who lack access to basic over-the-counter (OTC) items often experience worsened health outcomes and missed class time. Stocking the right items transforms wellness vending from a convenience into a true health resource.

Essential Categories to Stock

1. OTC Medications
Students often need quick relief for everyday issues. Include:

  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)

  • Cold and flu remedies

  • Allergy relief medications

  • Stomach and digestive aids

2. Self-Tests
Rapid access to tests helps students make informed health decisions:

  • COVID-19 antigen tests

  • Influenza tests

  • Strep throat tests

  • Pregnancy tests

  • Drug and alcohol screening tools (for health education programs)

3. Menstrual Products
Reliable access reduces student stress and supports equity:

  • Pads

  • Tampons

  • Menstrual cups

4. Hygiene Items
Promote general health and wellness on campus:

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Disinfecting wipes

  • Personal care wipes

  • Condoms

5. Harm Reduction Supplies
Where permitted, colleges can expand wellness to include safety tools:

  • Fentanyl test strips

  • Naloxone (Narcan)

  • Safer-use kits

Why Stock Variety Matters

Every student’s needs are different. A machine limited to one or two categories misses the opportunity to truly support wellness. By offering a broad mix, colleges send the message that student health is a priority, while reducing absenteeism and emergency visits.

No Budget? No Problem.

Stocking a wellness vending machine doesn’t have to be a financial challenge. Through the My BIO TESTS Wellness Vending Machine Placement Program, colleges can install, stock, and maintain a machine at no charge. That means:

  • No upfront costs for equipment

  • No staffing burden for stocking

  • Continuous access for students

Your institution can even use grant dollars later to subsidize certain products, offering free or reduced-cost access for priority items like condoms, fentanyl test strips, or self-tests.

Call to Action: Ready to create a fully stocked, student-centered wellness vending program? Contact My BIO TESTS today to explore our no-cost placement program.

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