2. Pharmacology Abbreviations (Medications & Prescriptions)
- ac – Before meals
- pc – After meals
- bid – Twice a day
- tid – Three times a day
- qid – Four times a day
- q6h – Every 6 hours
- q8h – Every 8 hours
- q12h – Every 12 hours
- PRN – As needed
- STAT – Immediately
- PO – By mouth (orally)
- IV – Intravenous
- IM – Intramuscular
- SC/SQ – Subcutaneous
- gtt – Drop
- mg – Milligram
- mcg – Microgram
- mEq – Milliequivalent
- mL – Milliliter
- NS – Normal saline
- D5W – Dextrose 5% in water
- OTC – Over-the-counter
- Rx – Prescription
- Sig – Directions for use
- NPO – Nothing by mouth
- HS – At bedtime
- LA – Long-acting
- SA – Short-acting
- XR – Extended release
- EC – Enteric-coated
- SL – Sublingual
- Neb – Nebulizer
- INH – Inhaler
- TPN – Total parenteral nutrition
- ASA – Aspirin
- APAP – Acetaminophen
- NSAID – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
- ABX – Antibiotics