The abbreviation QID comes from the Latin phrase “quater in die,” which translates to “four times a day.”
In medical contexts, QID is used in prescriptions and medical records to indicate that a medication should be taken four times a day at evenly spaced intervals.
QID Medical Abbreviation: How Is It Used in English?
QID is most commonly used in written prescriptions, patient instructions, and hospital charts. Below are some examples of how it appears in real-life medical communication.
In Prescriptions
Doctors write QID to tell pharmacists and patients how often to take a medication.
Example from a prescription:
- Take one tablet QID with meals.
- Apply eye drops QID for infection.
This means the medicine should be taken four times a day—often in the morning, afternoon, evening, and before bed.
In Medical Instructions for Patients
Doctors or pharmacists often explain QID when giving instructions on how to take medicine.
Example in a spoken conversation:
Doctor: “You’ll take this antibiotic QID, which means four times a day. Try to take it every six hours.”
Patient: “So, should I take it at breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime?”
Doctor: “Yes, that would be a good schedule.”
In Hospital Charts and Nursing Notes
QID appears in medical records and nursing instructions to ensure the correct dosage schedule.
Example from a hospital chart:
- Medication: Acetaminophen 500 mg
- Dosage: 1 tablet QID for pain relief
This means the hospital staff should give the medicine four times a day.
Common Medical Abbreviations Similar to QID
QID is just one of many medical abbreviations used to indicate how often a medication should be taken. Here are some related terms:
| Abbreviation | Full Form | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| QD | Quaque die | Once a day |
| BID | Bis in die | Twice a day |
| TID | Ter in die | Three times a day |
| QID | Quater in die | Four times a day |
Other Medical Abbreviations
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is intended to help learners understand common medical abbreviations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any medical concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.