prescription drug

noun

Synonyms of prescription drugnext
: a drug that can be obtained only by means of a physician's prescription

Examples of prescription drug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some are prescription drugs hidden inside capsules labeled as herbal blends. Jesse M. Pines, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 In May 2025, the president discussed signing a new executive order that gives the manufacturers of prescription drugs 30 days to meaningfully lower the cost of their medications. Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026 The process was created by the Inflation Reduction Act, which became law in 2022 in response to the rising cost of prescription drugs. Ed Silverman, STAT, 6 Aug. 2026 Curtis ran a campaign calling on the state to lower prescription drug costs, make housing more affordable, lower property costs, raise the minimum wage and fully fund the public schools system, including special education. Sofi Zeman, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prescription drug

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prescription drug was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Prescription drug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prescription%20drug. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

Medical Definition

prescription drug

noun
: a drug that can be obtained only by means of a physician's prescription

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