What does "prn" mean in a medication context?

In the context of medication, "prn" is an abbreviation derived from the Latin phrase "pro re nata," which translates to "as needed." This designation is used to indicate that a medication should be taken only when required, rather than on a scheduled or regular basis.

For instance, a physician may prescribe a pain reliever to be taken prn, implying that the patient should take it only when experiencing pain rather than on a fixed schedule. This phrase is essential for medications that may not need to be administered continuously but are important for symptom relief when specific circumstances arise. Understanding this terminology is crucial for pharmacy technicians as it greatly influences patient care and medication management.