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.
In April 2024, Gaulden was apprehended for his involvement in a massive prescription drug fraud ring while under house arrest in Huntsville, Utah. Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 Gaulden also pleaded guilty to his role in a prescription drug fraud ring in Utah. Will Weissert, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025 Sanders last month seeks to prevent Pharmacy Benefit Managers, third-party firms that manage prescription drug benefits, from owning pharmacies. Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025 Similarly, prescription drugs can only work if people can afford them. Chicago Tribune, 23 May 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 3 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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