What's on a PBS script? What's on a PBS script?

Every time your doctor gives you a prescription, the form contains certain standard information.

The diagram below shows the standard form that doctors use each time they prescribe a medicine under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). You will be given two copies of the form to take to the pharmacist. If the doctor has written the prescription by hand rather than by computer, the form will look different but will contain the same information.

The diagram below shows a repeat prescription form. If the doctor has authorised any repeat prescriptions, your pharmacist will give you one of these forms, usually in a small folded wallet, when you pick up your medicine. You will get a new form each time you get a repeat filled.

Medicine details

Usually only one name — the active ingredient name or the brand name — will appear on the prescription form. Both names will usually appear on the repeat authorisation form.

The dosage instructions — how much and how often the medicine should be taken — will often be written in doctor shorthand on the prescription form. The pharmacist will convert these instructions into plain English on the medicine’s label and on any repeat forms. Some common examples of doctor shorthand and their meanings are shown in the box below.

Number of repeats

The number of repeat prescriptions you are allowed will only appear on the prescription form if additional courses of the medicine have been ordered by the doctor.

The repeat authorisation form will show how many repeat prescriptions were ordered, and how many prescriptions have already been filled. It will also show how many repeat prescriptions you have left. Keeping track of this number can remind you when it’s time to go back to your doctor for a new prescription.

Prescription date

The prescription date is important. The prescription and any repeats must be filled within 12 months of this date.

The repeat authorisation form may also give the date after which the prescription cannot be filled.

Brand substitution box

If the brand substitution box is not marked, the pharmacist may ask you if you would like a different brand of the medicine stated on the form.