What is indicated by the abbreviation 'q12h' in a prescription?

The abbreviation 'q12h' in a prescription stands for "every 12 hours." This notation is commonly used in medical prescriptions to indicate the frequency at which a medication should be administered. The 'q' stands for 'quaque,' a Latin term meaning 'every,' while '12h' denotes the time interval of 12 hours.

This means that if a medication is prescribed to be taken "q12h," the patient should take it twice a day, spaced out by 12 hours. For instance, if the first dose is taken at 8 AM, the subsequent dose would be at 8 PM. Understanding this abbreviation is crucial for ensuring proper dosing, adherence to the medication schedule, and overall effectiveness of the treatment provided.