What is the legal definition of a prescription drug?

In New Hampshire, a prescription drug is defined legally as a medication or other chemical delivered or sold to a patient based on a prescription from a doctor. To be considered a prescription drug, the medication must originate from a qualified medical professional. This professional must be legally authorized to prescribe medications—for example, a licensed physician, qualified nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. Prescription drugs are further categorized as either controlled substances or non-controlled substances, depending on their potential for abuse. In general, controlled substances (e.g. opioids, amphetamines) are more tightly regulated and require stricter authorization from a healthcare professional. Non-controlled substances (e.g. antibiotics) are more widely available and can be prescribed more easily. In New Hampshire, it is illegal to possess prescription drugs for which you do not have a valid prescription. Furthermore, it is illegal for doctors to prescribe or dispense prescription medications without first consulting with the patient’s medical history. As an additional safeguard, all prescriptions must be labelled properly and should always contain the patient’s name, the doctor’s name, and the medication’s purpose.

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What is the legal definition of a prescription drug?

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