What Does PRN Mean? “As Needed” Medication Explained

If you've ever looked at a prescription and seen “PRN,” you might have wondered what it means. PRN comes from the Latin pro re nata, meaning “as needed.”

PRN medication is taken only when required — for example, pain relief when symptoms flare up — rather than on a fixed schedule.

Recording PRN medication accurately is important. YOURmeds includes dedicated PRN charts so carers can see exactly what was taken and when.