how to write a prescription

HOW TO WRITE A PRESCRIPTION

• The prescription order is an important therapeutic

transaction between physician and the patient. It

brings into focus the diagnostic acumen and

therapeutic proficiency of the physician with the

instructions for palliation or restoration of patient´s

health. The physician must also clearly

communicates with the pharmacist and adequately

instructs the patient on how to take the prescribed

drug.

There is no global standard for prescriptions and every country has its own regulations.

The most important requirement is that the prescription be clear.

A) identification of the patient

• name, initials and address

• age of patients under 12 years must be given

• age in adult (mainly elderly) patients may be useful but it is not essential

B) the name of drug

• preferably in capitals

• approved (generic) name

• proprietary (brand-name or trade name)

• Example:• chemical name: 6-[[ amino(4-

hydroxyphenyl)actyl]-amino]-3,3-dimethyl-7-oxo-4-thia-1- azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-2-carboxylic acid

• generic name: amoxyciline

• proprietary name: Almodan,Amoxil

C) the dose of drug

• quantities of 1 gram or more should be writte in grams (2 g)

• quantities less than 1 gram but more than 1 milligram should be written in milligrams (100 mg, not 0.1 g)

• quantities less than 1 milligram should be written in micrograms or nanograms do not abbreviate milligrams and nanograms - errors (100 micrograms, not 0.1 mg, nor 100 mcg nor, 100 ug nor, 100g)

• if a decimal point cannot be avoided, write 0.5 not .5

• use mL for milliliters

D) frequency of administration

• have to be clearly indicated• accepted abbreviations

E) route and method of administration

• route of administration should be clearly indicated (oral, sublingual, i.m.)

F) amount to be supplied

• for example, the precise number of tablets

• simpler is to indicate period of treatment

G) the presciber´s signature

Minimum information that should be given to the patient.

1. Effects of the drugWhy the drug is neededWhich symptoms will disappear, and which will notWhen the effect is expected to startWhat will happen if the drug is taken incorrectly or not at all

2. Side effectsWhich side effects may occurHow to recognize themHow long they will continueHow serious they areWhat action to take

3. InstructionsHow the drug should be takenWhen it should be takenHow long the treatment should continueHow the drug should be storedWhat to do with left-over drugs

4. WarningsWhen the drug should not be takenWhat is the maximum doseWhy the full treatment course should be taken

5. Future consultationsWhen to come back (or not)In what circumstances to come earlierWhat information the doctor will need at the next appointment

6.Everything clear?Ask the patient whether everything is understoodAsk the patient to repeat the most important informationAsk whether the patient has any more questions

• Acidi Acetylosalicylici 0,3• Paracetamoli 0,3 • Amobarbitali 0,05• Misce fiat pulvis (M. f. pulv.)• Dentur tales doses No XX (viginty)• Da ad capsulam amylaceam• D.S. etc

• Aspirin 300 mg• Paracetamol 300 mg• Amobarbital 50 mg• Make 20 such doses and place in capsules• Label: etc