In what medium are prescriptions typically written?

Prescriptions are typically written in ink to ensure legibility and permanence. Using ink prevents fading or smudging, which is crucial for maintaining clear communication about the medication, dosage, and instructions for the patient and pharmacist. Additionally, ink provides a legally binding record that is required for most prescriptions, as it demonstrates the prescriber's endorsement of the medication information.

While digital formats are increasingly common in modern pharmacy practices, traditional handwritten prescriptions are often required to be in ink unless specifically submitted through a secure electronic prescribing system, which is intended to reduce errors associated with handwriting. Therefore, the use of ink remains the standard in many situations where prescriptions are involved.