In a pharmacy, what does "bid" in a prescription mean?

The term "bid" in a prescription is derived from the Latin phrase "bis in die," which translates to "twice a day." This instruction indicates that the prescribed medication should be taken at two times during the day, typically spaced evenly apart to maintain a consistent level of the drug in the system. This usage ensures that the patient receives the medication regularly, which can be crucial for the efficacy of certain treatments and for managing symptoms effectively.

Understanding this abbreviation is important for pharmacy practice, as it directly influences patient adherence and the therapeutic outcome of the medication regimen. Knowing the correct dosage schedule helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that patients receive their medications as intended by their healthcare provider.