Which prescription component contains the directions for the patient?

Which prescription component contains the directions for the patient?

• A. Superscription
• B. Inscription
• C. Signa
• D. Subscription

Answer: (C)

The directions you give the patient to follow are contained in the Signa. This part translates into the patient’s instructions: how to take the medicine, how often, by what route, and any special notes like “take with food” or “save for bedtime.” For example, a Signa might read, “Take one tablet by mouth every 8 hours for 7 days.” The other parts serve different roles: the superscription lists the patient’s name and date; the inscription states the medication’s name, strength, and dosage form; the subscription gives the pharmacist instructions on dispensing (quantity, refills).

The directions you give the patient to follow are contained in the Signa. This part translates into the patient’s instructions: how to take the medicine, how often, by what route, and any special notes like “take with food” or “save for bedtime.” For example, a Signa might read, “Take one tablet by mouth every 8 hours for 7 days.” The other parts serve different roles: the superscription lists the patient’s name and date; the inscription states the medication’s name, strength, and dosage form; the subscription gives the pharmacist instructions on dispensing (quantity, refills).