What is the legal definition of a prescription drug?

Prescription drugs are medications that can only be obtained and used with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. In Washington, the legal definition of a prescription drug is any medication that is listed in the United States Pharmacopeia-National Formulary (USP-NF), which is a compilation of medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Any medication not included in the USP-NF is not considered a prescription drug and does not require a prescription to be obtained. In addition, some medications that are included in the USP-NF may not require a prescription in Washington if they are used in accordance with generally accepted medical practice guidelines or have been approved for over-the-counter use. For example, some forms of birth control and some topical medications do not require a prescription.

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What is the legal definition of a prescription drug?

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