What does the abbreviation 'b.i.d.' mean in medication dosage?

The abbreviation 'b.i.d.' stands for "bis in die," which is Latin for "twice a day." In medical practice, when a medication is prescribed to be taken b.i.d., it indicates that the patient should take the medication two times within a 24-hour period, typically spaced evenly throughout the day. This frequency allows for more steady levels of the medication in the bloodstream, which can help in managing various conditions more effectively. This dosage instruction is commonly used in prescribing medications to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.