A prescription is a set of instructions written by a qualified prescriber to a dispenser for supply of drugs after counselling the patient on how to use the drug. It is very important that prescriptions are clearly written.

A prescription should have the following:

• Name of the patient and age (especially if a child),
• Date,
• Instructions about the prescribed drugs, including:
• Generic name and dosage form,
• Dose,
• Frequency of administration,
• Duration of treatment,
• Prescriber’s signature and name.