What is the difference between a prescription drug and a nonprescription drug?

A prescription drug is a medication that is prescribed to an individual by a health care professional, such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, to treat a disease or medical condition. These drugs can only be obtained with a doctor’s written prescription, which must be filled at a pharmacy. In Virginia, all prescription drugs are regulated by the Board of Pharmacy and must be dispensed in exact accordance with the doctor’s instructions. A nonprescription drug, also known as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug, is a medication that can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription. These drugs can include pain relievers, antihistamines, antacids, and other medications that are available in stores or online without a prescription. OTC drugs are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that they are safe and effective. In Virginia, any store that sells nonprescription drugs is required to have a trained pharmacist on staff to answer questions and provide advice to consumers.

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What is the difference between a prescription drug and a nonprescription drug?

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