lääkemääräyksestä

Lääkemääräys, known in English as a prescription, is a written or electronic instruction from a qualified healthcare professional authorizing a patient to obtain specific medications. In Finland, the primary healthcare professionals authorized to issue lääkemääräyksia include physicians, dentists, and some nurses under specific circumstances.

A lääkemääräys typically includes the patient's name and date of birth, the name of the medication, its strength and dosage form, the quantity to be dispensed, and instructions for use, often referred to as the sig or dosage instructions. It will also contain the prescriber's name, professional title, and contact information, along with the date of issue. The prescriber's signature or an electronic equivalent is also a mandatory component.

The purpose of a lääkemääräys is to ensure that medications are used safely and effectively. It provides a clear record of what medication has been prescribed, preventing errors and facilitating communication between healthcare providers. Pharmacies use the lääkemääräys to dispense the correct medication to the patient. Some lääkemääräyksia are valid for a limited time, while others may be renewable. The specific regulations and requirements for lääkemääräyksia in Finland are governed by legislation and guidelines from the Finnish Medicines Agency (Fimea).