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.
The suppliers of the unregulated prescription drugs were in various states, including New York, Texas and California. Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 16 Mar. 2026 Other problematic human medications include vitamin D supplements, estrogen creams, antidepressants and other prescription drugs, and recreational drugs including cannabis and amphetamines. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026 Kratom products have more than 50 biologically active compounds and can interact with prescription drugs, causing potentially serious issues. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 11 Mar. 2026 So flights and restaurant dinners and workout classes and prescription drugs. Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 10 Mar. 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 17 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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