What must be included on a pharmacy label for a PRN medication?

For a PRN (pro re nata or "as needed") medication, it is essential that the pharmacy label includes comprehensive information to ensure proper usage and safety. This includes the medication name, which identifies what substance is being administered; the individual's name, which confirms that the medication is prescribed specifically for them; the specific dosage, which provides clear guidance on how much to take at one time; and the specific time or frequency, which informs the patient when they are allowed to take the medication. Additionally, including the reason for the medication helps the individual understand why it has been prescribed and when it is appropriate to take it.

This rich set of information is vital for patient safety and effectiveness, particularly for PRN medications, where usage can be variable and context-dependent. At times, a patient might need to assess their symptoms to determine when to take the medication, making this clear labeling imperative for proper self-management.