What does the term "refill as written" indicate on a prescription?

The term "refill as written" on a prescription clearly indicates that the prescription must be filled exactly as directed by the healthcare provider. This phrase signifies that the prescriber has specified the number of refills permitted, and it should not be altered in any way by the pharmacist. This ensures that the patient's treatment plan is followed precisely according to the prescriber's intention, maintaining the efficacy and safety of the prescribed medication regimen.

Other options do not accurately reflect this meaning: for example, allowing refills without limits does not align with the prescriber's specified instructions, and modifications by the pharmacist could compromise patient safety by deviating from the original treatment plan. Additionally, refilling at the pharmacy's discretion would contradict the prescriber's clear directive and could lead to potential issues in medication management. Thus, "refill as written" serves as a safeguard for both compliance and patient health.