prescription drug

noun

: 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.
Researchers note that prior authorization has grown more prevalent as health care costs rise, particularly in areas like lab testing, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and imaging. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 June 2025 However, with many large pharmacy chains struggling financially, an example of an area primed for automation is pharmacy workflows, where automated prescription drug dispensing can help reduce the potential risk of error. Michael Meucci, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025 If fewer patients have Medicaid coverage, the hospital would lose not only the reimbursement for their care, but also payments from a prescription drug program for hospitals serving low-income patients. Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 22 June 2025 Because insurance limits consumer costs, more prescription drugs are purchased than needed or used. Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 June 2025 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 29 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

prescription drug

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

More from Merriam-Webster on prescription drug

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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