What is the term for a medication typically prescribed for long-term health management?

The term for a medication typically prescribed for long-term health management is maintenance medication. This type of medication is designed to help manage chronic conditions over an extended period, ensuring that the patient maintains a stable and optimal level of health. Maintenance medications are often used for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and asthma, where ongoing treatment is necessary to control symptoms and prevent complications.

In contrast, acute medications are intended for short-term treatment of sudden or severe health issues, short-term medications are typically prescribed for limited durations, and emergency medications are used in life-threatening situations that require immediate intervention. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the appropriate use of different types of medications in patient care.