Prescription labels are full of abbreviations and instructions that can be confusing. A few cryptic letters can hide exactly how often to take a pill, how to take it and what to avoid while you do.
Here is a complete guide to understanding exactly what your medication label is telling you, in plain English.
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Reading the prescription label
Every prescription label packs a lot of information into a small space. Once you know what each part means, it becomes far easier to read. Here is what to look for on a typical label.
Medication name (brand vs generic)
The name of your drug. Brand names are the manufacturer’s trademark while the generic is the active ingredient. Both work the same way — the generic is simply the lower-cost equivalent.
Dosage strength
How much active medication is in each pill, tablet or dose — for example 500 mg. This is not how much to take, only how strong each unit is.
Quantity dispensed
The total number of pills or the total volume the pharmacy gave you for this fill, such as 30 tablets or 100 mL.
Prescriber name
The doctor or provider who wrote the prescription. Useful if you or another pharmacy need to confirm or question anything.
Refill information
How many refills you have left and until when. When it reaches zero you will need a new prescription from your provider.
Expiration date
The date after which the medication may lose potency or no longer be safe to take. Do not use medication past this date.
Common prescription abbreviations
Frequency — how often
How many times and how often to take your medication.
QD / QDay
Once daily
BID
Twice a day (every 12 hours)
TID
Three times a day (every 8 hours)
QID
Four times a day (every 6 hours)
QHS
At bedtime
PRN
As needed
Q4H
Every 4 hours
Q8H
Every 8 hours
Route — how to take it
The way the medication is meant to enter your body.
PO
By mouth (orally)
SL
Under the tongue
TOP
Apply to the skin (topically)
INH
Inhale
OPH
Eye drops
OTI
Ear drops
Instructions
Extra directions about how and when to take it.
AC
Before meals
PC
After meals
UD
As directed
NTE
Not to exceed
DAW
Dispense as written (no generic substitution)
Important warnings explained
Take with food
Reduces stomach irritation
Avoid alcohol
Can cause a dangerous interaction
Do not crush
It’s extended release — crushing destroys the time-release mechanism
Take on an empty stomach
1 hour before or 2 hours after eating for best absorption
Avoid sunlight
The medication increases sun sensitivity
Do not stop suddenly
You must taper off gradually to avoid withdrawal
Drug interactions to know
•Grapefruit juice interacts with many medications and can change how much of the drug reaches your bloodstream.
•Blood thinners and NSAIDs like ibuprofen can raise your risk of bleeding when taken together.
•Antidepressants and certain supplements can combine in ways that are unsafe.
•Always tell every doctor ALL medications you take, including supplements.
Red flags — when to call your pharmacist
Most prescriptions are routine, but a few situations are worth a prompt call to your pharmacist before you take another dose. Reach out about:
Instructions that conflict with what your doctor told you
A medication you don’t recognize
The wrong dose on the label
Expired medication
If you have severe symptoms such as chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting or confusion do not wait for a callback — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Questions to ask your pharmacist
1What is this medication for and how will I know it’s working?
2Exactly how and when should I take it — with food, on an empty stomach or at a certain time?
3What should I do if I miss a dose?
4What side effects are normal and which ones mean I should call you?
5Will this interact with my other medications, supplements or foods?
6How long should I take it and is it safe to stop on my own?
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Medical disclaimer: This page is educational and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medications must be reviewed by a licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist who knows your full history. Always follow your provider’s guidance and call 911 in an emergency.