What Does Rx Mean in Medical Terms?

Rx stands for prescription. A written order for medicine or treatment.

prescription

A written order for medicine or treatment.

Where you will see Rx

You will most often see Rx in medication orders and prescriptions.

Example

A medication order might be written with “Rx” as shorthand for prescription.

Related abbreviations

Browse the full Medical Abbreviations guide — 5,715 entries, searchable A–Z and by specialty.

Educational reference only. This guide is for learning and quick reference. Abbreviations vary between hospitals, countries and specialties, and some are discouraged because they can be misread. Always write and interpret orders using your own institution’s approved abbreviation list, and check anything unclear with the prescriber or your local policy.