What is the Difference Between Medicine and Medication?

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The terms "medicine" and "medication" are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Medicine: This term refers to the science of treating diseases with drugs, as well as the substances used for medical treatment. Medicine can involve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases that can affect both the body and the mind. It is also used to refer to the chemical substance that is used to treat diseases.
  • Medication: Medication is a drug or chemical compound used to treat or cure illness. It is the process of treating an illness with medicine, and it can include tablets, capsules, liquids, and other forms of medication.

In summary:

  1. Medicine is the science of treating diseases with drugs, while medication is the act of administering drugs.
  2. Medicine refers to the chemical substance used to treat diseases, while medication is the drug or chemical compound used to treat or cure illness.

Both words have their origins in the Latin root word "medicus," which means "physician".

Comparative Table: Medicine vs Medication

The terms "medicine" and "medication" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Here is a table that highlights the differences between the two:

Term Meaning
Medicine Medicine refers to the field of study that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. It encompasses various specialties, such as internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery. Medicine also refers to the art and science of healing, including the use of drugs and other therapies.
Medication Medication is a specific substance or drug prescribed for a patient to treat, cure, or alleviate the symptoms of a disease or medical condition. It can be in the form of tablets, capsules, injections, or other forms.

In summary, medicine is the broader field that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, while medication is a specific drug or substance used to treat, cure, or alleviate the symptoms of a medical condition.