What Prescription Medications Are and Why They Are Regulated

This lesson defines what prescription medications are and explains why some medicines require a licensed clinician’s order while others can be purchased over the counter. It introduces the main reasons for regulation: safety, effectiveness, appropriate diagnosis, monitoring, and prevention of misuse.

Learners will understand that prescription status is not a judgment that a medicine is “stronger” in every case. It means the medicine carries risks, requires clinical decision-making, or needs follow-up to be used safely and effectively.