What does ‘PRN’ stand for, and what does it indicate?

The abbreviation 'PRN' stands for 'pro re nata,' which is a Latin phrase that translates to 'as needed' or 'when necessary.' This term is commonly used in medical and pharmaceutical contexts to indicate that a medication should be administered only when the patient requires it, rather than on a fixed schedule. For example, a physician might prescribe a pain reliever to be taken PRN, meaning the patient should take it only if they experience pain rather than at regular intervals. This allows for flexibility and personalized patient care, ensuring that the medication is used judiciously and effectively.