Ante cibum

Ante cibum is a Latin term that translates to “before meals” in English. It is often abbreviated as “a.c.” or “a.cib.” in medical contexts. This phrase is used to indicate the timing of certain medical instructions or medications that should be taken before eating a meal.

In medical practice, some medications are prescribed to be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption or to reduce potential interactions with food components.

For example, a doctor might prescribe a medication to be taken “ante cibum” to ensure that the patient takes it before having any food. Following such instructions is crucial to achieve the desired therapeutic effect of the medication and prevent any unintended interactions that might alter its effectiveness.