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Medication is a term that refers to substances or compounds that are used to treat, cure, or prevent diseases or medical conditions. Medications come in many different forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, injections, and creams, and can be prescribed by a doctor or purchased over-the-counter (OTC) at a pharmacy.

There are many different types of medications, each designed to treat specific health conditions. Some medications work by targeting the underlying cause of a disease or condition, while others simply alleviate symptoms. For example, antibiotics are used to target bacterial infections, while pain relievers are used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Prescription medications are typically more potent and have more specific uses than OTC drugs. They require a doctor’s prescription because they can have potentially serious side effects and can interact with other medications, supplements, or medical conditions. Patients taking prescription drugs should follow the dosage and administration instructions carefully to ensure that they receive the maximum benefit while minimizing the risk of side effects.

OTC drugs, on the other hand, are generally considered safe for most people when taken as directed. They are often used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of conditions such as allergies, colds, and pain. However, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the dosing instructions, as taking too much of an OTC medication can be harmful.

Medications can be classified into several different categories based on their mode of action or therapeutic effect. Some common categories of medications include:

1. Analgesics: These are medications used to relieve pain. They can be either prescription or OTC drugs and include drugs like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and opioids.

2. Antibiotics: These medications are used to treat bacterial infections. Examples include penicillins, cephalosporins, and macrolides.

3. Antidepressants: These medications are used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

4. Antihistamines: These medications are used to relieve allergy symptoms, such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. They can also be used to treat motion sickness and insomnia. Examples include diphenhydramine, loratadine, and cetirizine.

5. Antipsychotics: These medications are used to treat mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Examples include risperidone.