What does "PRN" signify in medical prescriptions?

"PRN" stands for "pro re nata," which is a Latin phrase that translates to "as needed" in English. In medical prescriptions, this term is used to indicate that a medication should be administered only when the patient requires it, rather than at scheduled intervals. This is particularly applicable to medications for pain relief, anxiety, or other conditions where symptoms may not be constant.

Using PRN allows for flexibility in medication administration, ensuring that patients receive treatment tailored to their current needs, thus optimizing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing the potential for side effects that can occur with regular dosing. Understanding the context of PRN is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients to manage symptom relief effectively.