Prescription writing

Chapter 1: Introduction to Prescription Writing

• Regulations:

  • Republic Act 2382: Only physicians authorized to prescribe medicines, includes dentists.

  • Republic Act 5921: Only registered pharmacies can dispense and sell medications.

• Purpose of Prescription:

  • Acts as a safeguard for patients against unsafe drugs or incorrect medications.

  • Defined as a written order instructing pharmacists to prepare or dispense specific medication.

• Etymology of Prescription:

  • Derived from Latin prescriptus (to write) - combining prae (before) and scribere (to write).

  • Historical complexity of prescriptions required a universal language, historically Latin.

• Modern Prescriptions:

  • Currently predominantly in English, though some Latin terms still used.

• Legal Requirements for Prescriptions:

  • Must contain specific elements: prescriber’s and patient’s information, date.

  • Professional presentation enhances clarity; preprinted prescriptions are more legible than handwritten ones.

Chapter 2: Instructions to Patients

• Elements of a Prescription:

  • Prescriber Information: Name, address, and contact info necessary for follow-up.

  • Patient Information: Name, age, sex, and address important for legal records and patient care.

  • Date: Essential for tracking treatment timelines.

• Components of a Prescription:

  • Rx (Superscription): Means "take thou"; directs the patient on taking medication.

  • Inscription: Contains main details like drug name, strength, dosage, and directions for use.

  • Subscription: Instructions to the pharmacist on dispensing.

  • Signatura (Sig): Directions meant for the patient, typically written clearly and concisely.

• Concerns with Directions:

  • Avoid phrases like "as needed" to prevent patient misuse and potential lawsuits.

Chapter 3: Signature of Patient

• Importance of Clear Directions:

  • Ensure patients clearly understand medication usage; avoid ambiguity to prevent overdosing.

  • Sig signifies importance and clarity in medication administration.

  • Special instructions may also be indicated for pharmacists.

Chapter 4: Use of Drugs

• Rational Use of Drugs:

  • Ensures prescribed drugs are both effective and affordable.

  • Key Factors:

    • Understand patient's problem and collect detailed history.

    • Formulate a pertinent diagnosis to guide prescription.

    • Set clear therapeutic objectives for treatment.

• Selection of Drug Treatment:

  • Evaluate available treatment options based on efficacy, safety, suitability, cost, and ease of administration.

Chapter 5: Forms of Drug

• Drug Dosage Forms:

  • Classified based on physical form (solid, liquid), or route of administration (oral, parenteral).

  • Discusses the importance of updating knowledge on drug developments post-graduation.

• Patient Information:

  • Clearly communicate drug benefits and potential side effects.

• Rational Prescribing:

  • Empirical and systematic medication selection tailored to patient specifics, avoiding personal biases or external pressures.

Chapter 6: Conclusion

• Relevant Laws and Regulations:

  • Republic Act 3720 (Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act): Ensures quality standards for products.

  • Generics Act of 1988: Mandates generic identification of drugs by active ingredients.

  • Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act): Protects citizens from illegal drugs.

  • RA 9711: Strengthens regulatory capabilities of BFAD regarding food and drugs.

  • Cheaper Medicines Act of 2008: Ensures accessibility to affordable quality medications.

• Best Practices in Prescription:

  • Avoid leaving blank spaces on prescription pads to prevent fraud.

  • Maintain professionalism and ensure proper documentation.

• Final Note: Importance of continuously educating oneself on pharmaceutical practices and regulations.