ethical drug
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A prescription drug; a pharmaceutical that can only be legally obtained with a written order (a prescription) from a licensed medical professional, such as a doctor or dentist, to a pharmacist. This term emphasizes the drug's regulated, professional medical use as opposed to over-the-counter availability.
Usage
The term "ethical drug" is used to describe medications whose distribution is controlled by law, requiring a prescription. It highlights the professional and legal framework governing their appropriate use. - The company specializes in the research and development of new ethical drugs for heart disease. - Advertising for ethical drugs is often directed at healthcare professionals rather than the general public.
Advanced Usage
- The term is somewhat dated and is used primarily within the pharmaceutical industry, marketing, and healthcare policy contexts. In everyday and most medical contexts, "prescription drug" or "prescription medication" is more common.
- It contrasts with "over-the-counter (OTC) drug," which can be purchased without a prescription.
Variants and Related Words
- Prescription Drug / Prescription Medication (n): The more common contemporary terms for an ethical drug.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) Drug (n): A drug available for purchase without a prescription.
- Pharmaceutical (n): A broader term for any medicinal drug, including both ethical and OTC drugs.
Synonyms
- Prescription drug
- Prescription medication
- Rx drug (informal, from the prescription symbol "℞")
Notes on Meaning
- The word "ethical" in this context does not refer to morality but to the professional code ("medical ethics") and legal regulations that govern the proper, supervised dispensing of certain potent medications. It implies the drug should be used under professional guidance.
Noun
- a drug that is available only with written instructions from a doctor or dentist to a pharmacist
- he told the doctor that he had been taking his prescription regularly