What Does UAD Stand for in Pharmacy? A Critical Look
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6 min read
According to a 2019 survey by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), over 55% of pharmacists reported receiving prescriptions with the abbreviation UAD, or 'use as directed,' within a typical work week. While seemingly benign, the phrase is a relic of outdated prescribing practices and poses a serious and avoidable threat to patient safety. This practice introduces dangerous ambiguity into the medication-use process, which can lead to serious adverse outcomes.
