What does the abbreviation "ac" indicate in medical terms?

The abbreviation "ac" stands for "ante cibum," which is a Latin term meaning "before meals." This term is commonly used in medical and pharmaceutical contexts to indicate that a medication should be taken before eating to enhance its effectiveness or to minimize potential side effects. For example, certain medications might need to be absorbed on an empty stomach, thus requiring the patient to take them ac. Understanding this abbreviation is crucial for proper medication administration and patient care, ensuring that medications are taken at the optimal times for the best therapeutic outcomes.