AC: Ante Cibum
When medications are advised to be administered ‘AC’ it means they are designed to be taken on an empty stomach, before eating.
AC is an abbreviation for the Latin term ‘Ante Cibum’ which means ‘before meals’. This term is often used by doctors when writing out prescriptions.
How long should you take AC medications before eating?
Patients are generally advised to wait at least an hour after taking 'AC' medications before they eat their next meal. That said, it is important to seek specific advice from your doctor, as each medication may have different instructions and requirements.
Why is it important to take some medications AC: Ante Cibum?
For some medications, taking them on an empty stomach ensures faster absorption and, consequently, quicker onset of action. Certain drugs, including some cannabis-based medications, need to be absorbed into the bloodstream without the interference of food, which could alter their effectiveness.
What should you do if you forget to take my medication AC: Ante Cibum?
That really depends on which medication you have been prescribed. If you forget to take a medication that has been prescribed AC, it is best to consult your doctor (or pharmacist) for specific instructions.
In some cases, you may need to wait until the next scheduled dose, or you may be advised to take the missed dose with some food. In most cases, it is crucial not to double up on doses, as this can lead to potential side effects or unintended drug interactions.
Can you take my medication AC: Ante Cibum with other medications?
It is always important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication with your current regimen. Some medications may interact with each other, and taking them at the same time can affect their effectiveness or cause adverse effects.
Your Releaf prescribing specialist will take your medical history and current medication regime into account when prescribing medical cannabis, and will advise you on any potential interactions.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.