What are prescription medications?

Prescription medications are specifically defined as drugs that require a healthcare provider's authorization before they can be obtained. This means that a licensed healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, must evaluate the patient’s condition and determine the appropriate medication, dosage, and treatment plan before a pharmacy can dispense the medication. This process ensures that medications are prescribed safely and effectively, particularly those that may have significant side effects, interactions with other drugs, or the potential for misuse.

Other options pertain to drug classifications that operate under different regulations. Medications available over the counter do not require a prescription and can be directly purchased by consumers. Herbal remedies often fall outside the scope of traditional pharmaceutical regulations and can typically be obtained without a prescription. Lastly, sharing medications among patients poses significant safety and legal concerns, as it bypasses the necessary evaluation and management by a healthcare provider. Each category of medication has its own protocols to ensure patient safety, and prescription medications are tightly regulated to provide the highest level of care.