Most Commonly Prescribed Drugs In The United States

In the United States, the most prescribed drugs often fall into categories that address chronic conditions prevalent in the country. These include medications for high blood pressure such as Lisinopril and Amlodipine, cholesterol-lowering drugs like Atorvastatin, and diabetes medications like Metformin. Other commonly prescribed drugs include Levothyroxine for thyroid disorders and Omeprazole for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• How We Ranked Drugs
• Final Words From AzDrug

How We Ranked Drugs?

We have adhered to a meticulous and comprehensive methodology to rank drugs. Our approach is grounded in the principles outlined in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences 2018 research paper. This seminal work provides a robust framework for evaluating and ranking pharmaceutical products based on various criteria. Additionally, we have incorporated data from The Top 300 of 2020, as provided by the ClinCalc DrugStats Database. This resource offers invaluable insights into drug usage statistics, allowing us to consider factors such as prescription frequency and overall popularity in our rankings. Our process is designed to be as objective and unbiased as possible, ensuring that our orders are reliable and reflect the most current trends and data in the pharmaceutical industry.

Look at the most prescribed medications (Last Updated: November 9, 2023).

List Of Most Prescribed Drugs

1. Atorvastatin

Atorvastatin, a widely recognized pharmaceutical product, holds the prestigious rank of being the most prescribed drug in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this medication for several uses, primarily to manage high cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. These include the prevention of cardiovascular disease, the treatment of primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia, and the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in individuals with or at high risk of developing coronary heart disease. In 2020 alone, Atorvastatin was prescribed over 112 million times, underscoring its critical role in managing cardiovascular health nationwide. Despite its widespread use, like all medications, Atorvastatin should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure its benefits outweigh any potential risks or side effects.

2. Levothyroxine

Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine, is a widely prescribed medication that ranked second in the list of most prescribed drugs in 2020. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use for several conditions, primarily for the treatment of hypothyroidism, a situation where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is also used to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), which can be caused by hormone imbalances, radiation treatment, surgery, or cancer. In 2020 alone, the total number of prescriptions for Levothyroxine reached an impressive figure, reflecting its widespread use in managing thyroid-related conditions. This medication plays a crucial role in helping regulate the body’s energy and metabolism and is typically used as a long-term treatment.

3. Omeprazole

Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is a widely recognized medication that ranks third on the list of most prescribed drugs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Omeprazole for several uses, primarily for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It is also used to prevent upper gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill patients and to treat Helicobacter pylori infection in combination with antibiotics. In 2020 alone, the number of Omeprazole prescriptions reached an impressive figure, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. This drug’s popularity can be attributed to its efficacy in reducing stomach acid production, relieving acid-related conditions, and promoting healing of the esophagus.

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4. Amlodipine

Amlodipine, a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, is a highly prescribed drug in the United States, ranking fourth in the list of most prescribed medications. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use for several conditions, including hypertension, angina, and certain types of coronary artery disease. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, thereby reducing the heart’s workload. In 2020 alone, Amlodipine was prescribed over 75 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. Despite its popularity, like all medications, it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure its benefits outweigh any potential risks or side effects.

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5. Simvastatin

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a number of uses for the pharmaceutical product simvastatin, which ranks fifth in terms of prescriptions. This drug is primarily utilized to control elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly called ‘bad cholesterol,’ in the body. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart complications in people with diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors. Simvastatin operates by slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body to decrease the amount of cholesterol that may build up on the walls of the arteries and block blood flow. In 2020 alone, this potent lipid-lowering medication was prescribed over 83 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. Despite its benefits, like any other medication, Simvastatin should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions with other drugs.

6. Metformin

Metformin, a medication primarily used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, holds the rank of the sixth most prescribed drug in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this pharmaceutical product for a number of uses, including but not limited to improving glycemic control in adults and children with type 2 diabetes mellitus and for use in conjunction with a sulfonylurea or insulin when diet and exercise combined with the maximal tolerated dose of Metformin or sulfonylurea therapy do not achieve adequate glycemic control. In addition to these FDA-approved uses, Metformin is also commonly used off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and certain types of cancer prevention. According to data from 2020, Metformin was prescribed over 78 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance within the medical community. Despite its high prescription rate, like all medications, Metformin should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure its benefits outweigh potential risks.

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7. Lisinopril

Lisinopril, a widely recognized medication, holds the rank of the 7th most prescribed drug in the United States. This pharmaceutical product has been granted approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for several uses, primarily for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure and to improve survival after a heart attack. It is an ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, thereby reducing strain on the heart. In 2020 alone, Lisinopril was prescribed to patients across the country in staggering numbers, with total prescriptions reaching well into the millions. This high prescription rate is a testament to its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community as an effective treatment for various cardiovascular conditions.

8. Metoprolol

Metoprolol, a beta-blocker that is commonly used to treat hypertension and angina, holds the rank of the 8th most prescribed drug in the United States. This medication works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Metoprolol for several uses, including treating high blood pressure and chest pain due to poor blood flow to the heart and improving survival after a heart attack. In addition to these uses, it is also prescribed off-label for conditions such as migraine prevention and hyperthyroidism. In 2020 alone, Metoprolol was prescribed over 68 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. Despite its benefits, like all medications, Metoprolol should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and interactions with other drugs.

9. Albuterol

Albuterol, a bronchodilator commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a highly prescribed medication in the United States. In fact, it ranks 9th on the list of most prescribed drugs, according to recent data. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Albuterol to prevent and treat difficulty breathing, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing caused by lung diseases. These FDA-approved uses have led to a high demand for this medication. In 2020 alone, the total number of Albuterol prescriptions reached an impressive figure, reflecting its widespread use in managing respiratory conditions nationwide. The drug’s efficacy in relieving respiratory distress contributes significantly to its high prescription rate.

10. Gabapentin

Gabapentin, a medication primarily used to treat seizures and neuropathic pain, is a highly prescribed drug in the United States, ranking 10th in the list of most prescribed drugs in 2020. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Gabapentin for several uses, including the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (pain from shingles), partial onset seizures in adults, and as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial onset seizures in pediatric patients aged three years and older. Despite its specific FDA-approved uses, it is often used off-label for a variety of conditions, such as fibromyalgia, insomnia, and migraines. In 2020 alone, Gabapentin was prescribed over 50 million times, reflecting its widespread use in the medical community. However, like all medications, it is not without potential side effects and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

11. Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide, a medication that ranks 11th on the list of most prescribed drugs, is a diuretic often used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention. It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine, thereby reducing blood volume and pressure. The FDA has approved Hydrochlorothiazide for several uses, including hypertension, edema associated with congestive heart failure, hepatic cirrhosis, and corticosteroid and estrogen therapy. It is also used in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome, in adjunct therapy for cerebral or pulmonary edema where rapid diuresis is required (IV injection), and in patients unable to take oral medication. In 2020, Hydrochlorothiazide was prescribed to millions of patients across the United States, reflecting its widespread use in managing various health conditions.

12. Sertraline

Sertraline, a medication that is commonly known by its brand name, Zoloft, is a highly prescribed antidepressant in the United States, ranking 12th in the list of most prescribed drugs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Sertraline for several uses, including the treatment of major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This versatile drug has proven effective in managing these conditions, leading to widespread use. In 2020 alone, Sertraline was prescribed over 38 million times, reflecting its significant role in the field of mental health treatment. Despite its high prescription rate, like all medications, Sertraline should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure its benefits outweigh any potential risks or side effects.

13. Escitalopram

Escitalopram, also known by its brand name Lexapro, is a widely recognized medication that ranks 13th on the list of most prescribed drugs in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for several uses, primarily for the treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. The efficacy of Escitalopram in managing these conditions has led to its widespread use across the country. In 2020 alone, the total number of prescriptions for this drug reached an impressive figure, reflecting its significant role in mental health management. As with any medication, it is crucial to use Escitalopram under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure its benefits are maximized while potential side effects are appropriately managed.

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14. Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen, a common over-the-counter medication, is widely recognized for its efficacy in relieving pain and reducing fever. It holds the 14th position in the list of most prescribed drugs, according to recent data. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Acetaminophen for various uses, including treating mild to moderate pain and fever reduction, and as a component in multi-symptom cold/flu relief products. Despite its over-the-counter availability, it is also frequently prescribed by healthcare professionals due to its versatility and effectiveness. In 2020 alone, the total number of Acetaminophen prescriptions reached an impressive figure, further solidifying its place as a staple in many households and medical facilities. Its widespread use underscores the trust that both patients and healthcare providers place in this medication’s safety and efficacy.

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15. Rosuvastatin

Rosuvastatin, commonly known under the brand name Crestor, is a widely recognized medication that ranks the 15th most prescribed drug in the United States. This statin drug was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for several uses, primarily to manage high cholesterol levels and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. It works by slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body, thereby decreasing the amount of cholesterol that may build up on the walls of arteries and block blood flow. In addition to these primary uses, Rosuvastatin is also approved by the FDA to treat certain types of conditions that cause fat build-up in the body’s tissues. In 2020 alone, Rosuvastatin was prescribed over 21 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. Despite its benefits, like all medications, it should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions with other drugs.

16. Bupropion

Bupropion, a medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and support smoking cessation, holds the rank of the 16th most prescribed drug in the United States. This pharmaceutical product has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for several uses. Apart from its primary applications in managing depression and aiding in smoking cessation, it is also utilized off-label for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sexual dysfunction associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In 2020, Bupropion was prescribed extensively nationwide, with total prescriptions reaching millions. Despite its widespread use, like any other medication, patients need to use Bupropion under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy.

17. Furosemide

Furosemide, a potent diuretic, is ranked as the 17th most prescribed drug in the United States. This medication, which is commonly used to treat fluid build-up due to heart failure, liver scarring, or kidney disease, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for several uses. These include the treatment of edema associated with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and renal disease, including nephrotic syndrome. It is also approved for the treatment of hypertension either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. In 2020 alone, Furosemide was prescribed over 32 million times, reflecting its widespread use and acceptance in the medical community. Despite its high prescription rate, like all medications, Furosemide should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional to monitor potential side effects and ensure its effectiveness.

18. Pantoprazole

Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is a widely recognized medication that holds the rank of the 18th most prescribed drug in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this pharmaceutical product for several uses, primarily for treating and managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production. It is also utilized to heal erosive esophagitis, prevent gastric ulcers caused by certain bacteria, or use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In 2020 alone, Pantoprazole was prescribed to patients across the country in substantial numbers, with total prescriptions reaching well into the millions. This high prescription rate underscores its significant role in managing and treating gastrointestinal conditions.

19. Trazodone

Trazodone, a medication primarily used to treat depression, holds the 19th position in the list of most prescribed drugs in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Trazodone for several uses, including the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. It’s also often prescribed off-label for insomnia due to its soothing properties. In 2020, Trazodone was prescribed extensively across the country, with millions of prescriptions filled. Despite its widespread use, it’s important to note that, like all medications, Trazodone should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and interactions with other drugs.

20. Meloxicam

Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is widely recognized for its efficacy in treating pain and inflammation associated with various conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. As of 2020, it ranked 20th on the list of most prescribed drugs in the United States, demonstrating its significant role in pain management. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Meloxicam for several uses, primarily focusing on relieving symptoms associated with arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. In 2020 alone, the total number of Meloxicam prescriptions reached millions, further underscoring its widespread use and acceptance within the medical community. Despite its benefits, like all medications, Meloxicam should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Final Words From AzDrug

The 20 most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States play a significant role in the healthcare system. These medications, which range from pain relievers to blood pressure regulators and antidepressants to cholesterol reducers, are prescribed by healthcare professionals to manage and treat a variety of medical conditions. They are a testament to the prevalence of specific health issues in the country, such as heart disease, mental health disorders, and chronic pain.

However, it’s important to note that while these drugs are commonly prescribed, their usage should always be under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare provider. The effectiveness and Safety of these drugs can vary greatly depending on individual health conditions and circumstances. Therefore, patients must have open discussions with their doctors about their medications, including potential side effects and interactions with other drugs or substances.