What does UT DICT mean on a prescription?
UT DICT means as directed.
What it stands for
UT DICT comes from the Latin ut dictum, meaning as directed, or as said. It tells you that the instructions came from somewhere other than the sig itself.
How it looks on a real label
| Sig code | Label directions |
|---|---|
1 tab po ut dict | Take 1 tablet by mouth as directed |
2 tabs po bid ut dict | Take 2 tablets by mouth twice daily as directed |
UT DICT points at instructions the patient was given verbally or in a separate written plan. It is common on tapering doses, insulin, and anything whose schedule changes over time.
"As directed" on its own is a known weak point on a label. If the patient forgets what they were told, the label cannot remind them, and there is nothing for a future pharmacist to check the dose against.
Many pharmacies will call the prescriber for the actual directions rather than print UT DICT alone, or add the full schedule alongside it.
Related codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
PRN | as needed |
STAT | immediately |
PO BID | by mouth twice daily |
AC | before meals |
Translate any sig code free
Paste any sig code into the free sig code translator and get the plain-English label directions instantly. No account needed.
You can also browse the full sig code list, grouped by frequency, route, timing and form.
If you are studying for the PTCB exam or starting in a pharmacy, PharmSig has quizzes and flashcards that track which codes you keep getting wrong, with a 7-day free trial.
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Always follow the directions on your own prescription and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.