Order Dis Meaning: Understanding Prescription Abbreviations

Historically, poor penmanship and lack of standardization have been significant contributors to written paper prescription errors. To address these issues, healthcare agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) prioritize communicating information about confusing abbreviations and medical shorthands.

One of the most common and preventable causes of medication errors is unclear or poorly written prescription abbreviations. As a patient, it's reassuring to know that pharmacists are responsible for putting correct directions on your prescription label. Fortunately, you don't have to decipher these prescription directions yourself, as they can be written out in plain language.

For instance, the abbreviation '1 tab po bid' is interpreted as 'Take one tablet by mouth twice a day.' Here's a breakdown of each component:

* 'bid' means 'twice a day' and originates from the Latin phrase 'bis in die.'

* 'po' stands for 'by mouth' and comes from the Latin phrase 'per os.'

* The abbreviation 'tab' means 'tablet' and is derived from the Latin word 'tabella.'

Healthcare professionals often use abbreviations derived from Latin when writing prescriptions or recording health notes in medical records. You may wonder what medical abbreviations like '1 tab po bid' mean on your prescription.

Understanding Pharmacy Abbreviations: A Guide

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD.

Prescription abbreviations can seem daunting, but knowing their meanings can help prevent errors. By familiarizing yourself with common prescription abbreviations, you can better understand the instructions on your medication label and make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Order dis meaning