What does 'OD' signify in medical prescriptions?

In medical prescriptions, 'OD' stands for 'Once a Day.' This abbreviation is derived from the Latin term "Omni Die," which directly translates to "every day." It is commonly used to indicate that a medication should be administered once during a 24-hour period.

Understanding this term is essential because it helps guide the frequency of medication administration, ensuring that patients receive their prescribed doses effectively and safely. For healthcare professionals, clear knowledge of such abbreviations helps prevent medication errors and ensures adherence to therapeutic regimens.

While 'OD' can also mean 'Right Eye' in specific ophthalmic contexts or 'Oral Dose' in some references, in the context of medication administration frequency, it is essential to recognize that 'Once a Day' is the correct application of this abbreviation in prescriptions.