The term "ethical drugs" refers to pharmaceutical drugs that are legally prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. These drugs can also be referred to as "prescription drugs" or "patent medicines". Another synonym for ethical drugs is "branded drugs" as they are typically sold under a specific brand name. In contrast, "generic drugs" are non-branded versions of the same drug which are chemically equivalent and typically less expensive than their branded counterparts. Another synonym for ethical drugs is "regulated drugs" as they are subject to strict regulations by government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their safety and efficacy. Ultimately, ethical drugs are an important tool in modern medicine for managing and treating a wide range of illnesses and conditions.