What is the primary difference between a prescription drug and an OTC drug?

The primary difference between prescription drugs and OTC (over-the-counter) drugs lies in the level of supervision required for their use. Prescription drugs are regulated substances that can only be prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a physician or a pharmacist, after evaluating a patient's specific health needs. This requirement ensures that patients receive the proper guidance, monitoring, and follow-up care, particularly for medications that can have more significant side effects, interactions with other medications, or require ongoing management.

In contrast, OTC drugs are considered safe and effective for use without a healthcare provider's direct supervision, as they have met specific criteria set by organizations like the FDA. These products are designed for self-treatment and are generally used to manage minor health issues.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of the distinction between prescription and OTC drugs. While some OTC medications may be cheaper, cost is not a defining factor of their classification. OTC drugs are not inherently considered unsafe; rather, they are deemed suitable for consumer use without a prescription. Lastly, prescription drugs cannot always be bought without restrictions; they specifically require a prescription and may be subject to controlled substance regulations.