List of medical abbreviations: Latin abbreviations

This article provides a comprehensive list of Latin abbreviations commonly used in the medical field. These abbreviations are often used in prescriptions, medical records, and other healthcare documents.

Common Latin Abbreviations

• a.c. - Ante cibum (before meals)
• ad lib. - Ad libitum (as desired)
• b.i.d. - Bis in die (twice a day)
• c. - Cum (with)
• cap. - Capsula (capsule)
• d. - Die (day)
• gtt. - Guttae (drops)
• h. - Hora (hour)
• h.s. - Hora somni (at bedtime)
• n.p.o. - Nil per os (nothing by mouth)
• p.c. - Post cibum (after meals)
• p.o. - Per os (by mouth)
• p.r.n. - Pro re nata (as needed)
• q.d. - Quaque die (every day)
• q.i.d. - Quater in die (four times a day)
• q.o.d. - Quaque altera die (every other day)
• s. - Sine (without)
• stat. - Statim (immediately)
• t.i.d. - Ter in die (three times a day)

Usage in Medical Context

Latin abbreviations are widely used in the medical field to convey instructions quickly and efficiently. They are particularly prevalent in prescription writing, where space is limited and clarity is crucial. Understanding these abbreviations is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate communication and patient safety.

Importance of Understanding Latin Abbreviations

Misinterpretation of Latin abbreviations can lead to medication errors, which can have serious consequences for patient health. Therefore, it is important for healthcare providers to be familiar with these terms and use them correctly.

See Also

• Medical terminology
• Prescription (medicine)
• Pharmacology

References

• Medical Abbreviations
• Latin in Medicine