What is the primary purpose of the Durham-Humphrey Amendment of 1951?

The primary purpose of the Durham-Humphrey Amendment of 1951 is to require prescription medications to bear the legend "Rx only." This amendment significantly impacted the regulation of drugs by clearly distinguishing between prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. It established that certain medications could only be dispensed with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional, thus ensuring that patients receive necessary medical oversight when using potentially harmful or complex drugs.

By implementing this requirement, the amendment aimed to enhance patient safety and ensure that medications were used appropriately under medical guidance. This distinction also allowed for a more structured framework for the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare providers, improving overall patient care. The legend "Rx only" serves as a critical reminder and regulation, emphasizing the importance of professional input in the use of certain medications.