Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for generating a prescription for medication. The method comprises the steps of inputting patient information and subsequently displaying a list of authorized medications for that patient. The physician selects a specific medication to dispense from the list and enters a number for the required quantity of the medication. A respective prescription for the medication is printed. The prescription includes pertinent information in a readable format as well as in a bar code, wherein the bar code can also include identifiers and encryption keys for anti-forgery and security.