Retseptil

Retseptil is an Estonian term meaning “on prescription” and is used to describe medicines and related products that require an official prescription from a licensed health professional to be obtained. The term functions as an adjective or adverb in Estonian, appearing in phrases such as retseptil ravim (prescription medicine) or retseptil kasutamine (use under prescription).

In pharmacology and health policy, retseptil medicines are contrasted with medicines that are retseptivaba or OTC (over-the-counter). The prescription requirement is intended to ensure medical assessment, appropriate indication, correct dosing, and monitoring for safety and effectiveness. Clinicians consider patient history, potential drug interactions, and, where relevant, issues such as antibiotic resistance or misuse risk when deciding to prescribe.

Dispensing of prescription medicines is typically performed by a pharmacist who verifies the prescription and provides guidance on administration, possible side effects, interactions, and storage. The process may involve a written or electronic prescription, with electronic systems increasingly replacing paper formats in many places to improve accuracy and traceability.

Regulatory practices and terminology vary by country, but the general concept of prescription-only status is common in many regions, including Estonia and the European Union. The overarching aim is to balance access to necessary treatment with patient safety, ensuring medicines are used under professional supervision and with appropriate follow-up.

See also: Prescription-only medicine, Over-the-counter medicine, Pharmacovigilance.