Medication
medication (also called medicament, medicine, pharmaceutical drug, medicinal product, medicinal drug or simply drug) is a drug used to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent disease. Drug therapy (pharmacotherapy) is an important part of the medical field and relies on the science of pharmacology for continual advancement and on pharmacy for appropriate management.
Drugs are classified in many ways. One of the key divisions is by level of control, which distinguishes prescription drugs (those that a pharmacist dispenses only on the medical prescription) from over-the-counter drugs (those that consumers can order for themselves). Medicines may be classified by mode of action, route of administration, biological system affected, or therapeutic effects. The World Health Organization keeps a list of essential medicines.
Drug discovery and drug development are complex and expensive endeavors undertaken by pharmaceutical companies, academic scientists, and governments. As a result of this complex path from discovery to commercialization, partnering has become a standard practice for advancing drug candidates through development pipelines. Governments generally regulate what drugs can be marketed, how drugs are marketed, and in some jurisdictions, drug pricing. Controversies have arisen over drug pricing and disposal of used medications.
Drugs
- Loperamide is primarily used to treat diarrhea by slowing down the movement of the gut. This decreased movement allows the intestines more time to absorb water and electrolytes, which results in firmer stools that are passed less frequently. It’s available over-the-counter under the brand name Imodium among others, and can be used by adults and children, although the medication should only be given to children under the guidance of a healthcare provider. While loperamide is effective in alleviating symptoms of diarrhea, it does not address the underlying cause of diarrhea, so it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional if you have prolonged or severe diarrhea, or if you notice any unusual symptoms. ― #genAI/chatgpt