Prescription Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
prescription
[prษชหskrษชpสษn ]
Definitions
medical
A prescription is a written direction from a physician to a pharmacist for the preparation and use of a medicine.
Synonyms
doctor's order, medical order.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prescription |
Typically used when discussing a doctor's written instruction for the administration of a medicine or treatment. It is often needed for regulated medications.
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| medical order |
A formal directive from a doctor or medical professional that encompasses a range of instructions beyond just medication, potentially including lifestyle changes, duration of treatments, and other care needs.
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| doctor's order |
This term can be used in a broader sense than 'prescription' and refers to any direction given by a doctor regarding treatment, medication, or care. Often used in a hospital or clinical setting.
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Examples of usage
- The doctor wrote a prescription for antibiotics.
- She filled the prescription at the pharmacy.
legal
A prescription is an order, especially a legal one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prescription |
Used in medical situations when a doctor provides a written instruction for the treatment or medication of a patient.
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| mandate |
Used when an authoritative order or official instruction is given, often in political or organizational settings. It usually implies a duty to comply.
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| decree |
Used in legal or authoritative contexts where an official order is issued by a court or government.
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Examples of usage
- The court issued a prescription for the company to stop its illegal activities.
- The prescription stated that the defendant must pay a fine.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The formal practice of writing medical prescriptions dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks.
- In the 17th century, pharmacies began to keep written records of prescriptions to ensure accurate dispensing.
- The introduction of the prescription pad was significant in the 20th century, aiding in the management of medications and reducing errors.
Science
- Prescriptions are based on the understanding of pharmacology, the study of how drugs interact with the body.
- Dosage and duration are carefully calculated based on a patientโs age, weight, and health condition to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Many prescriptions now include information on potential side effects and interactions with other medications to educate patients.
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, characters often navigate the drama of getting and taking prescriptions, highlighting the importance of medicine in daily life.
- Some modern sitcoms joke about the challenges of reading a doctor's handwriting on prescriptions, emphasizing the need for clear communication.
- Prescriptions have become a common topic in health-related reality shows, illustrating the journey many go through to find the right treatment.
Literature
- Prescriptions often appear in literature as symbols of authority and trust, reflecting the doctor-patient relationship.
- In dystopian novels, the concept of prescriptions can be twisted to comment on the control over personal health and freedoms.
- Notable works occasionally reference prescriptions to make statements about reliance on medicine in society, exploring themes of health and power.
Origin of 'prescription'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'praescriptio', which means 'written beforehand'.
- It has roots in the medieval Latin word 'praescriptus', which refers to a written order or direction.
- The term has evolved over time, originally referring to any directive before becoming associated primarily with medical orders.
The word 'prescription' originated from the Latin word 'praescriptio', which means 'a writing before, order, direction'. The concept of prescribing medicine has been around for centuries, with early civilizations using various herbs and substances for medicinal purposes. Over time, the practice of prescribing specific doses of medicine evolved, leading to the modern understanding of a prescription as a written order for medication.
See also: prescribed, prescriber.