Lääkemääräys

Lääkemääräys, commonly referred to as a prescription in English, is a formal instruction from a qualified healthcare professional to a pharmacist or other dispenser, detailing the medication, dosage, and frequency for a patient. This document is crucial for ensuring safe and effective medication use.

The issuance of a lääkemääräys is typically done by a physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, or other authorized medical practitioner. It serves as a legal record and a guide for the patient and the dispenser. Key components of a lääkemääräys usually include the patient's name and date of birth, the name of the medication (brand or generic), the strength and form of the medication, the dosage instructions (e.g., how much and how often to take it), the quantity to be dispensed, and the prescriber's signature and license information.

In many countries, lääkemääräys systems are increasingly digitalized, allowing for electronic transmission of prescriptions directly from the prescriber to the pharmacy. This electronic lääkemääräys aims to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance patient safety. The validity period of a lääkemääräys can vary depending on the type of medication and local regulations. Some medications may require periodic re-evaluation and a new lääkemääräys.