Medicine: meaning, definitions and examples

Can refer to the practice and science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses, not just the substances themselves. This interpretation is frequently seen in academic or professional settings.

• She has been practicing medicine for over 20 years.
• Advances in medicine have greatly increased our life expectancy.

Refers to prescribed or over-the-counter drugs used to treat a medical condition. Typically used in more formal or clinical settings, indicating a structured treatment regimen.

• The doctor prescribed a strong medication for her anxiety.
• He needs to be on medication for his blood pressure.

Often used to describe a treatment for minor ailments or a natural solution, such as herbal remedies. It may also imply a solution to a problem more generally.

• Ginger tea is a common remedy for sore throats.
• They are looking for a remedy to fix the company's financial problems.

This term is used for a broad range of actions or processes aimed at managing or curing diseases or medical conditions. It can include therapy, surgery, or other medical interventions and is often used in professional discussions.

• She is undergoing treatment for cancer.
• The treatment plan includes both medication and physical therapy.

General term for substances used to treat illness. It encompasses both prescription and over-the-counter products.

• Take your medicine with food
• The doctor prescribed some medicine for my cough

Formal term often used in healthcare settings. Refers specifically to prescription drugs.

• She is on several medications for her condition
• Please list any medications you are currently taking

Often used in a more clinical or technical context, can also refer to illegal substances, hence sometimes has a negative connotation.

• The new drug has shown great promise in early trials
• He was caught with illegal drugs

Refers to treatments or cures, often natural or homeopathic. Used in both medical and informal settings.

• Ginger tea is a common remedy for nausea
• He searched for a remedy to heal his back pain