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Pharmacy Abbreviations Reference Chart

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Pharmacy Abbreviations

This webpage offers a valuable reference for commonly used pharmacy abbreviations, aiding healthcare professionals and patients in understanding prescription instructions and medication information. These abbreviations are essential for efficient communication in the field of pharmacy and healthcare. From understanding dosage instructions to deciphering prescription labels, these abbreviations are integral to ensuring safe and accurate medication management.

Definition

Abbreviation

After meals

PC

antibiotic

abx

As needed

PRN

aspirin

ASA

At bedtime

QHS

Before meals

AC

By mouth

PO

Every evening

QPM

Every hour

QH

Every morning

QAM

Every three hours

q3h

Every two hours

q2h

Four times a day

QID

Drip

gtt

Intramuscular

IM

Intravenous

IV

intravenous piggyback

IVPB

Intravenous push

IVP

normal saline

NS

Nothing by mouth

NPO

Over the counter

OTC

penicillin

PCN

prescription

Rx

subcutaneous

SQ / SC

sublingual

SL

Three times a day

TID

Two times a day

BID

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The Resource Center content, including all videos and other media, is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial or other advice. The advice and information contained in the Resource Center is not a substitute for financial advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation