What is the meaning of 'ac' when discussing medication timing?

The abbreviation 'ac' stands for "ante cibum," which is a Latin term meaning "before meals." In the context of medication timing, this indicates that the medication should be taken prior to eating to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness. This is particularly important for certain medications that may be affected by the presence of food in the stomach, as they might work better or be absorbed more efficiently when there is no food in the digestive system at the same time. Understanding these abbreviations is essential for proper medication administration and patient care.