Health / B1

pri-SKRIPSHUN/prɪˈskrɪpʃn/

A prescription is a doctor’s written order for medicine: a repeat prescription; on prescription; prescription-only. The chemist / pharmacy dispenses it; prescribe is the verb. A receipt is proof of payment, not medicine, and over-the-counter medicines do not need a prescription. Do not confuse it with a job description or with inscription (words carved on stone).

Meaning

A doctor’s written order for medicine, or the medicine itself.

Examples

• “The chemist could not give her the tablets without a prescription.”
• “The GP sent the prescription electronically to the pharmacy.”
• “Antibiotics are prescription-only in the UK for a reason.”

Good to know

a repeat prescription; on prescription. Verb: prescribe. Shop proof: receipt. No doctor needed: over the counter. Person: chemist / pharmacist.

Topics

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