What does QID mean in medication dosing?

QID stands for "quater in die," which is Latin for "four times a day." When a medication is prescribed with a QID dosing schedule, it means that the patient should take the medication four times throughout a 24-hour period. This dosing is often utilized for medications that require more frequent administration to maintain therapeutic levels in the body or for those that have a short duration of action. Knowing this designation is crucial for proper patient care and ensuring adherence to prescribed medication regimens, as following the prescribed frequency can impact the effectiveness of the treatment.