Medication Label & Prescription Abbreviations
Decode the Latin shorthand on your pet’s prescription bottle—such as BID, TID, PO, PRN, and SID—to administer medications safely and accurately.
BID (Twice Daily)
abbreviationA prescription abbreviation originating from Latin meaning "bis in die," directing a medication to be given twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart.
TID (Three Times Daily)
abbreviationA prescription abbreviation from Latin "ter in die," directing a medication to be administered three times a day, roughly every 8 hours.
SID (Once Daily)
abbreviationA veterinary prescription abbreviation from Latin "semel in die," directing a medication to be given once a day, every 24 hours.
PO (By Mouth / Oral)
abbreviationA medical route abbreviation from Latin "per os," meaning that a medication or food must be administered orally by mouth.
SQ / SC (Subcutaneous / Sub-Q)
abbreviationAn injection route abbreviation designating administration into the subcutaneous connective tissue layer beneath the skin.
IM (Intramuscular)
abbreviationAn injection route abbreviation designating administration of medication directly into a muscle belly.
IV (Intravenous)
abbreviationAn administration route abbreviation designating delivery of fluids or medications directly into a vein.
PRN (As Needed)
abbreviationA prescription abbreviation from Latin "pro re nata," directing a medication to be administered only as needed or as circumstances arise.
NPO (Nothing by Mouth)
abbreviationA medical directive from Latin "nil per os," meaning nothing should be given by mouth (no food, treats, or water) for a specified period.