- A prescription is a written or electronic communication from a licensed healthcare provider to a pharmacist, authorizing the dispensing of a specific medication to a patient.
- It serves as a legal document that provides detailed instructions regarding the medication type, strength, dosage, and duration.
- Prescriptions are crucial in ensuring safe and effective medication use.
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Date:
- Indicates when the prescription was written, ensuring that the medication is dispensed within a valid period.
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Patient Information:
- Includes the patient’s name, age, sex, and address to ensure proper identification and accurate dosing, especially for pediatric or geriatric patients.
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Superscription (“℞“):
- Derived from the Latin word “recipe,” meaning “take,” this symbol marks the beginning of the prescription.
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Inscription:
- Specifies the name, dosage form, strength, and quantity of the medication to be dispensed, including active ingredients and amounts.
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Signature (Signatura or Sig):
- Provides instructions for the patient on how to use the medication, including dosage, frequency, route of administration, and any additional guidelines.
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Subscription:
- Instructions for the pharmacist on preparing and dispensing the medication, including the form (e.g., tablets or capsules) and total quantity to be provided.
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Refills (Renewal Instructions):
- Indicates how many times the medication can be refilled, ensuring continuity of treatment.
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Prescriber’s Signature and Information:
- The prescriber’s signature, address, and registration number authorize the prescription and verify its legitimacy.
Each component ensures that the pharmacist has clear, complete, and accurate information to safely dispense the medication to the patient.
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