What is another word for patent medicine?
Pronunciation: [pˈe͡ɪtənt mˈɛdsən] (IPA) 
Patent medicine is a term that refers to over-the-counter remedies or medicines that claim to cure or alleviate various ailments. However, the term has acquired a negative connotation over the years due to instances of these medicines being ineffective or even dangerous. To avoid the negative connotations, some alternative terms one might use include proprietary medicine, non-prescription medicine, non-prescription drug, or over-the-counter medicine. These terms help to distinguish legitimate and regulated medicines from those that are untested or unregulated, which are sometimes marketed as "patent medicines." Whichever term is used, consumers should always read labels and follow usage instructions to ensure the medicine's safety and effectiveness.
