What is a prescription drug?

Prescription drugs are medications that can only be purchased and used from a pharmacy or drugstore with a prescription issued by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, and must be taken under their supervision and guidance. These medications often carry potential side effects or risks of interactions with other drugs, so their use must strictly follow the advice and instructions provided by healthcare professionals. Prescription drugs are typically intended for specific diseases or symptoms and achieve therapeutic, preventive, or diagnostic purposes through their unique pharmacological actions. Patients should use prescription drugs exactly as directed by their healthcare provider and must not arbitrarily change the dosage or discontinue the medication without consultation.