What is indicated by the abbreviation "ung" in a prescription?

The abbreviation "ung" stands for "unguentum," which is Latin for ointment. In pharmaceutical terms, ointments are semi-solid preparations containing medication that is intended to be applied to the skin or mucous membranes. They typically have a greasy or oily base that helps in moisturizing and protecting the area where they are applied.

While the other options refer to different forms of topical and oral medications—tablets being solid oral dosage forms, creams being emulsions that can be easily spread on the skin, and gels being clear or translucent semi-solid preparations—none of these are synonymous with the term "ung" or unguentum. Thus, recognizing "ung" as indicating ointment is crucial for accurate medication dispensing and patient care in a pharmacy setting.