What does the acronym PRN indicate when noted on a prescription?

The acronym PRN stands for "pro re nata," which is a Latin phrase meaning "as needed." This term is commonly used in medical prescriptions to indicate that a medication should be administered only when necessary, rather than on a fixed schedule. For instance, a patient might be instructed to take a pain reliever PRN for discomfort, meaning they should take it when they feel pain, instead of at predetermined times throughout the day.

This understanding helps healthcare providers ensure that medications are used appropriately and only when patients truly require them, thereby reducing the risk of overmedication and ensuring effective management of symptoms.