BD in medicine has two primary meanings:
1. BD as a Dosage Instruction
In medical prescriptions and instructions, BD stands for bis in die, Latin for twice daily. This indicates that a medication should be administered two times per day. This is often seen in contrast to OD (once daily). For example, a prescription might say "Take one tablet BD" meaning take one tablet twice a day. This usage is crucial for patient safety, ensuring accurate medication administration.
2. BD as Becton, Dickinson and Company
BD also refers to Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD), a prominent global medical technology company. BD is a leading manufacturer and seller of medical devices, including:
- Medical devices: A wide range of products used in various healthcare settings.
- Injection and infusion-based drug delivery systems: Innovations in how medications are administered.
- Molecular diagnostics: Advanced technology for disease diagnosis.
BD is involved in various aspects of healthcare, from medical device manufacturing to advancing medical discovery and diagnostics. Their commitment to sustainability is also evident through initiatives like the Sustainable Medical Technology Institute. They aim to improve healthcare globally through their products and solutions.