1. Abbreviation
In most of the prescriptions, abbreviated terms are used by the prescriber, which leads to significant errors during interpretation by the pharmacists. E.g., ‘SSKI’ is the abbreviated term of ‘Saturated Solution of Potassium Iodide.’ It is preferable to avoid these types of misleading abbreviations.
2. Name of the drugs
Names of some drugs (especially the brand names) either look or sound alike. So, any error in the name of a drug will lead to major danger to the patient.
e.g. Althrocin – Eltroxin, Acidin – Apidin etc.
3. Strength of the preparation
Drugs are available in the market in various strengths. So, a medication must not be dispensed if the strength is not written in the prescription. E.g., Paracetamol tablet 500mg should not be dispensed when no power is mentioned in the prescription.
4. The dosage form of the drug prescribed
Many drugs are available in more than one dosage form, e.g., liquid, tablets, injections, or suppositories. The dosage form intended for the patient must be mentioned in the prescription to reduce ambiguity.
5. Dose
If an unusually high or low dose is mentioned in the prescription, it must be consulted with the prescriber. Sometimes, a sustained release (SR) dosage form is prescribed thrice or more daily. SR dosage forms should be given once or twice a day.
6. Instructions to the patient
Sometimes, the instruction for a certain preparation is omitted or mentioned partially. The route of administration should be discussed clearly.
7. Incompatibilities
It is essential to check that there are no pharmaceutical or therapeutic incompatibilities in the prescription. If more than two medicines are prescribed, then the pharmacist must see whether their interactions will harm the patient. Certain drugs have interactions with food. The pharmacist has to advise the patient about it. E..g, Tetracycline should not be taken with milk or antacid.