What does 'pc' signify in medication timing?

The abbreviation "pc" stands for "post cibum," a Latin term meaning "after meals." In the context of medication administration, it indicates that a medication should be taken after food has been consumed. This timing can be crucial for certain medications as taking them with or after food can influence absorption, effectiveness, and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Understanding this is essential for both healthcare providers and patients to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and manage potential side effects effectively.