ordonnance

Ordonnance is a term with varied meanings depending on the context, primarily found in legal and medical fields. In law, an ordonnance can refer to a decree, order, or regulation issued by a governmental authority. This might be a legislative act, an administrative rule, or a judicial order. For instance, in France, a presidential or ministerial ordonnance can have the force of law. The specific nature and authority of an ordonnance depend heavily on the jurisdiction and the branch of government that issues it. It signifies a formal command or directive that is legally binding.

In a medical context, ordonnance is the French word for a prescription. It is a written order issued by a physician or other qualified healthcare practitioner that directs a patient to be treated with a specific medication or therapy. This prescription details the drug name, dosage, frequency of administration, and duration of treatment. The pharmacist then dispenses the medication based on the ordonnance. The term emphasizes the formal instruction from a medical professional for the patient's care and treatment. While the legal and medical uses of ordonnance differ, both denote a formal, authoritative directive.