Answer #1

Drug and medicine are two terms that is in general are one and the same but is often viewed to be different in some portions. Upon looking for the definition of both words in the dictionary, one can say that a drug is a type of medicine. And a medicine is a type of drug. However, the society and the government placed a distinction between the two which are grounded on how they are regulated, manufactured, classified, and much more.

Drugs per se, according to societal norms, are the kind of substances that may cure but are addictive especially when abused and may lead to serious health risks. It is often linked with the kinds of hallucinogens, stimulants, analgesics, and depressants which are categorized according to their effects. Medicine on the other hand are viewed to be generally healthful, it helps cures various diseases, maintains one’s good health, has low toxicity level, and are not addictive.

In terms of regulation, the government imposes strict rules on the manufacturing, procession, and dissemination of drugs. It is either legally prohibited (marijuana, LSD, cocaine) or imposed with high taxes as in the case of tobacco and alcohol. It also goes along with certain penalties when caught violating the law. Medicine is also regulated by the government, but it can be publicly availed in three ways: 1) over the counter (OTC), 2) behind the counter (BTC), also known as “pharmacy medicines” in the U.K., and 3) prescription only medicines.

Most medicines are used for medical purposes only, but some types of drugs play a religious and spiritual significance which are called “entheogens” that are commonly hallucinogens in nature.

In the end, drugs and medicine may have synonymous definition, effects, and uses. But the difference lies primarily on how it can be legally availed, its effects, and societal perception.

Answered By: khristine [216 ]