There are three categories of medicinal products that are available for purchase:

1. Prescription drugs (which require medical approval)

2.Over the counter (OTC) drugs

3.Dietary supplements (both of which are available without any restrictions).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for setting the standards of safety, effectiveness, and honesty in labeling for the rst two categories.

Discuss:

Procedures for Approving Prescription and OTC Drugs.

Are FDA-Approved Drugs Safe?

Dietary Supplements - Should they be FDA approved?