font size

Definition of p.c.

p.c.: Abbreviation meaning after meals (from the Latin "post cibum", after meals). One of a number of hallowed abbreviations of Latin terms that have traditionally been used in prescriptions.

Some others:

  • a.c. = before meals (from "ante cibum", before meals)
  • b.i.d. = twice a day (from "bis in die", twice a day)
  • gtt. = drops (from "guttae", drops)
  • p.o. = by mouth, orally (from "per os", by mouth)
  • p.r.n. = when necessary (from "pro re nata", for an occasion that has arisen, as circumstances require, as needed)
  • q.d. = once a day (from "quaque die", once a day)
  • q.i.d. = four times a day (from "quater in die", 4 times a day)
  • q._h.: If a medicine is to be taken every so-many hours (from "quaque", every and the "h" indicating the number of hours)
  • q.h. = every hour
  • q.2h. = every 2 hours
  • q.3h. = every 3 hours
  • q.4h. = every 4 hours
  • t.i.d. = three times a day (from "ter in die", 3 times a day)
  • ut dict. = as directed (from "ut dictum", as directed)
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8308
Last Editorial Review: 4/27/2011 5:27:15 PM

Drug Medical Dictionary of Terms by Letter

Top RxList Drug News

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement
advertisement
advertisement
Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies
Search the Medical Dictionary for Health Definitions & Medical Abbreviations