What is a “PRN” medication?

"PRN" stands for "pro re nata," a Latin phrase meaning "as needed." This term is used to describe medications that are not taken on a fixed schedule but are instead administered based on the patient's specific needs or conditions. For instance, a patient may take a pain reliever only when experiencing discomfort, rather than at set intervals throughout the day. The flexibility of PRN medications allows for personalized care, enabling individuals to manage their symptoms more effectively based on their unique situations.

In contrast, medications that are taken at the same time every day are more structured and do not allow for patient discretion. Medications prescribed solely for emergencies would be less common and typically only used when a critical situation arises. Finally, medications that are not prescribed at all do not fit the definition of PRN, as PRN medications are specifically prescribed for certain conditions to provide relief when required.