What is the abbreviation for 'Before eating'?

The abbreviation for 'Before eating' is "AC," which stands for "ante cibum" in Latin. This term literally translates to "before meals" and is commonly used in medical settings to indicate when a medication should be taken. Specifically, when a medication is prescribed to be taken AC, it is meant to be administered at specific times prior to eating, thereby optimizing its effectiveness as certain medications can be better absorbed or more effective on an empty stomach.

Understanding the context of "AC" is important in medical practices as it directly influences patient adherence to treatment plans and the timing of medication. This abbreviation helps healthcare providers communicate clearly about the appropriate times for medication administration relative to meals, ensuring that patients receive the maximum benefit from their prescribed treatments.