The abbreviation “AC” used in prescription means?

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Question

This question was previously asked in

SGPGI Staff Nurse Official Paper (Held On: 28 Feb, 2024 Shift 1)

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Answer 1

Correct Answer: Before meals

Rationale:

The abbreviation “AC” in medical prescriptions stands for “ante cibum,” which is a Latin term meaning “before meals.” It is commonly used by healthcare providers to instruct patients to take their medication prior to eating.
Medications prescribed to be taken before meals are usually intended to work more effectively on an empty stomach, ensuring better absorption or action. For example, certain medications like antacids or some antibiotics are better absorbed when taken before food.
The timing of medication administration is crucial for its efficacy and to avoid interactions with food that could alter its pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion).

Explanation of Other Options:

After meals

Rationale: The abbreviation for “after meals” is “PC,” derived from the Latin term “post cibum.” Medications prescribed after meals are typically meant to reduce stomach irritation or to work in conjunction with food for optimal absorption.
For example, certain pain relievers or supplements like iron may be prescribed to be taken after meals to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.

At night

Rationale: Instructions for taking medication at night are often indicated with terms like “HS” (hora somni), which means “at bedtime” in Latin. This is distinct from “AC” and refers to medications meant to be taken specifically before sleep, such as sedatives or medications for insomnia.

At evening

Rationale: No specific abbreviation directly corresponds to “at evening” in medical prescriptions. However, medications prescribed for evening administration are generally indicated with clear instructions, such as “take in the evening” or similar phrasing, and this is not interchangeable with “AC.”

Conclusion:

The abbreviation “AC” is specifically used to denote “before meals,” ensuring that medications are taken at the appropriate time to maximize their therapeutic effect or to avoid potential food-related interactions. Understanding the meaning of abbreviations like AC is critical for proper medication administration and patient safety.