In which medium should prescriptions be written?

Prescriptions should be written in ink to ensure legibility and permanence. When a prescription is written in ink, it protects against alterations or forgery, as it is much harder to modify an inked document than one marked with a pencil. Ink does not smudge easily and remains clear over time, which is crucial for pharmacists and other healthcare providers who need to interpret the prescription accurately.

Using a pencil is not advisable because it can be easily erased or altered, leading to potential medication errors. While typed prescriptions are increasingly common and accepted, particularly in digital environments, the traditional method of writing prescriptions by hand emphasizes the importance of clear communication and accountability in patient care, which is best achieved using ink. Thus, ink remains the preferred and standard medium for writing prescriptions.