What does the abbreviation 'AC' commonly signify in healthcare?

In healthcare, the abbreviation 'AC' commonly signifies "before meals." This abbreviation is derived from the Latin term "ante cibum," which directly translates to "before food." It is often used in medical contexts, such as medication administration instructions, to indicate that certain medications should be taken or certain actions should be performed prior to eating. This timing is crucial because taking medications on an empty stomach can affect their absorption and efficacy.

The other options do not reflect the conventional use of "AC" in medical terminology. Thus, recognizing that 'AC' is widely accepted to mean "before meals" is essential for understanding standard practices in administering medications and treatments in healthcare settings.