On a prescription, OD means once a day, and BD means twice a day. Understanding these abbreviations is essential for correctly taking your prescribed medication. Following the dosage instructions on your prescription is key to taking your medicine correctly for the best and safest results.
Understanding Common Prescription Abbreviations
Healthcare professionals frequently use abbreviations derived from Latin to indicate how often and when a medication should be taken. This shorthand helps to standardize and streamline prescription writing.
- OD (Once a Day): This abbreviation comes from the Latin phrase "omni die", which translates to "every day". If your prescription indicates OD, you should take the medication one time within a 24-hour period.
- BD (Twice a Day): Derived from the Latin "bis die", meaning "twice a day", this instruction requires you to take the medication two times within a 24-hour cycle. It's often recommended to space these doses appropriately, for example, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Other Frequently Used Prescription Abbreviations
Familiarity with other common abbreviations can further help you understand your prescription. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor if you have any doubts about your medication instructions.
| Abbreviation | Latin Origin | Meaning | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| OD | omni die | Once a day | Take one tablet OD |
| BD | bis die | Twice a day | Take two drops BD |
| TDS | ter die sumendus | Three times a day | Take 5ml TDS |
| QDS | quater die sumendus | Four times a day | Apply cream QDS |
| PRN | pro re nata | As needed | Take painkiller PRN for pain |
| STAT | statim | Immediately | Administer injection STAT |
| AC | ante cibum | Before meals | Take medication AC |
| PC | post cibum | After meals | Take medication PC |
| HS | hora somni | At bedtime | Take one tablet HS |
Why Accurate Dosage is Critical
Correctly understanding and following prescription instructions, especially regarding how often to take your medicine, is vital for your health. Misinterpreting terms like OD and BD can lead to:
- Ineffective Treatment: Taking too little medication, or taking it less frequently than prescribed, may prevent it from working properly, leading to prolonged illness or worsening symptoms.
- Adverse Effects: Taking too much medication, or taking it more often than prescribed, can lead to serious side effects, toxicity, or even overdose.
Always adhere precisely to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you are ever unsure about a term or dosage instruction on your prescription, immediately consult your pharmacist or doctor for clarification. For more detailed information on prescription terms, you can consult reliable resources such as WebMD or your local health service website.
