Final answer:
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are self-prescribed and self-administered for relief of symptoms, while prescription drugs require a doctor's prescription for specific medical conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are those that are self-prescribed and self-administered for the relief of symptoms of self-diagnosed illnesses. These drugs do not require a doctor's prescription and can be purchased directly from a pharmacy or store without consulting a healthcare professional. Common examples of OTC drugs include pain relievers like acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cough and cold medications, and allergy medications.
On the other hand, prescription drugs are medications that are prescribed by a healthcare professional for specific medical conditions. These drugs require a doctor's prescription and can only be obtained from a pharmacy with the prescription. Prescription drugs are often used for more serious illnesses and conditions that require specialized treatment or monitoring.
The other options, illicit drugs and generic drugs, are not the correct answers for this question. Illicit drugs refer to illegal substances, such as heroin or cocaine, that are not legally available for use. Generic drugs, on the other hand, are bioequivalent versions of brand-name medications that are approved by regulatory authorities and sold at a lower cost than the brand-name drugs.