Medications, another word for medicine or drugs, are substances used to diagnose, treat, prevent, or manage health conditions. These compounds come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, injections, and topical applications. Medications work by interacting with the body’s biological systems to alleviate symptoms, combat diseases, or modify physiological functions.  

Medication can be classified into categories such as antibiotics, analgesics, antidepressants, and antihypertensives, each serving specific therapeutic purposes. 

In Canada, medications are regulated by the federal government (Health Canada). There are many different types or classes of medications that are used to treat mental disorders (such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety medications). Medications can also be used to treat symptoms of a disorder.