PO Pharmacy Abbreviation

Per Os

Per Os (abbreviated as PO) is a Latin medical term meaning “by mouth” and is commonly used in pharmacy and medical prescriptions to indicate that a medication should be taken orally. This instruction specifies the route of administration, ensuring that both healthcare providers and patients understand how the drug should be consumed. PO is one of the most frequently seen abbreviations on prescription labels, alongside dosage and timing details.

In pharmaceutical practice, using PO helps avoid ambiguity in medication instructions, particularly in hospital settings where multiple administration routes are possible. Whether the drug is in tablet, capsule, liquid, or suspension form, PO ensures the intended method of delivery is clear. Proper adherence to PO instructions is essential for achieving the desired therapeutic effect and avoiding administration errors.