Vaistas

Vaistas is a substance used to prevent, diagnose, treat, or alleviate symptoms of disease in humans or animals. In everyday Lithuanian usage, the term commonly refers to medicines sold in pharmacies, including prescription medicines and over-the-counter preparations. The scope also covers vaccines, biologics, and some clearly defined traditional remedies when they are regulated as medicines.

Classification: Medicines come from various origins—synthetic chemical compounds, biologics such as vaccines or antibodies, and plant- or mineral-based preparations. They are categorized by their purpose (therapeutic, preventive, diagnostic), by route of administration, and by access (prescription-only or available OTC). Most medicines are developed through research, tested in clinical trials, and manufactured to meet quality standards.

Regulation and safety: National authorities oversee medicines to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy. This includes authorization, manufacturing rules, labeling, and pharmacovigilance—the monitoring of adverse effects after a medicine is marketed. Patients should use medicines as prescribed, be aware of possible interactions, contraindications, and allergies, and avoid using others' medicines.

Use and storage: Dosing depends on many factors (age, weight, kidney/liver function). Medicines may be administered orally, topically, by injection, or by inhalation. Storage typically requires a cool, dry place and protection from light; heed expiry dates. Unused medicines should be disposed of properly to reduce harm and misuse.

Access and impact: Availability varies by country and healthcare system, and medicines may be subject to prescription or reimbursement rules. Counterfeit or substandard medicines pose risks to health, making proper sourcing critical. The study and regulation of medicines form a core part of modern healthcare.