What does "BID" mean in the context of medication administration?

In the context of medication administration, "BID" is an abbreviation derived from the Latin term "bis in die," which translates to "twice a day." This means that a medication should be taken two times throughout a 24-hour period, typically at evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent levels of the drug in the body. Administering a medication BID allows for effective management of certain conditions by ensuring that therapeutic levels are maintained without causing peaks and troughs in the drug concentration.

Understanding this terminology is essential for healthcare professionals when prescribing and administering medications, as well as for patients to follow their medication regimens accurately. For instance, if a patient is instructed to take a medication BID, they might take it in the morning and then again in the evening, optimizing effectiveness and adherence to treatment.