Prescription medicines are prescribed by a doctor. Normally, pharmacies and chemist shops don’t give you the medicines unless they see the prescription. The doctor prepares the prescription after carefully diagnosing your condition. The doctor also knows if the medication may have a side effect and may advise you to take precautions accordingly. Over-the-counter medicines don’t require a doctor’s prescription. These medicines are supposed to provide you quick relief without the need to visit a doctor., For example, you can purchase an antacid or a paracetamol without a prescription.