What Makes a Valid Prescription in Singapore

To be accepted and legally dispensed by a pharmacy, a valid prescription must include:

  1. Patient Details

    • Full name

    • Identification number (e.g., NRIC or passport number)

    • Age or date of birth

  2. Medication Details

    • Name of the medicine (generic or brand)

    • Strength and dosage form (e.g., 500 mg tablet)

    • Dosage instructions (e.g., 1 tablet twice daily)

    • Quantity to be dispensed

    • Duration of treatment (if applicable)

  3. Prescribing Doctor's Information

    • Full name of the doctor

    • Medical Registration Number (MCR number)

    • Clinic name, address, and contact details

    • Doctor’s signature

  4. Date of Issue

    • Must be within 6 months from the date of issue, unless otherwise specified.

  5. Legibility

    • The prescription must be clear, readable, and unaltered (no corrections or overwrites without proper countersignature).

 

 

Additional Notes:

  • Controlled drugs (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids) may require stricter formatting and cannot be prescribed electronically in some cases.

  • Electronic prescriptions (e-prescriptions) are valid only if submitted through secure, approved platforms (e.g., Glovida) by registered healthcare professionals.

  • For repeat prescriptions, the total quantity and refill instructions must be clearly stated.

  • Faxed or emailed copies are not valid for dispensing unless followed by the original physical copy (for paper prescriptions).