What is the term for medications that can be purchased over-the-counter?

The term for medications that can be purchased over-the-counter is "non-legend drugs." These medications do not require a prescription and can be marketed directly to consumers, allowing individuals to purchase them without the need for a healthcare provider's guidance. This accessibility helps address minor health issues conveniently and efficiently.

Prescription drugs, on the other hand, are medications that require a doctor's prescription due to their potential for misuse or side effects. Legend drugs refer to a similar category of prescription medications that carry the "legend" label, indicating they are only available through a prescription. Controlled substances are a specific class of medications that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse or dependence, and they also require a prescription. Thus, non-legend drugs specifically refer to those medications available without a prescription, making this terminology distinctly applicable to over-the-counter medications.