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.
But the program will pay for a wide range of health care, from primary care, dental and vision to emergency medical services and prescription drugs. Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Mar. 2026 Recalled for undeclared prescription drug Tadalafil. Josh Kelly, Oklahoman, 27 Feb. 2026 Another study took advantage of the rollout of Medicare Part D, which helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, as a natural experiment. Anna Chorniy, The Conversation, 27 Feb. 2026 Cigna executives have repeatedly told investors that managing prescription drugs has been one of their highest priorities since the company acquired Express Scripts for $54 billion in 2018. Ed Silverman, STAT, 27 Feb. 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 3 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

prescription drug

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

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