What does the term "legend drugs" refer to as defined by Federal law?

The term "legend drugs" refers specifically to prescription medications as defined by federal law. This designation comes from the requirement that these drugs carry a label with the statement: "Caution: Federal law prohibits dispensing without a prescription." Legend drugs are those that can only be obtained through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider due to their potential for misuse, side effects, or the necessity for medical oversight in their use.

This classification is important for ensuring that patients receive proper medical guidance for these medications and that they are used safely and effectively. In contrast, over-the-counter medications can be obtained without a prescription, experimental drugs may not yet be approved for general use, and herbal supplements do not fit the definition of legend drugs as they are generally not regulated in the same manner and do not require a prescription.