What is the medical abbreviation for "by mouth"?

The abbreviation for "by mouth" is PO, derived from the Latin phrase "per os." This terminology is commonly used in medical settings to indicate that a medication or treatment is to be administered orally, which is a standard route for the intake of many medications. Using this abbreviation helps to ensure clarity and efficiency in medical communication, especially in written prescriptions and documentation.

The other abbreviations represent different routes of administration; for instance, IV stands for intravenous, indicating that a substance is administered directly into a vein. IM refers to intramuscular, describing an injection into a muscle, and SC denotes subcutaneous, which refers to administration under the skin. These routes differ significantly from oral administration, showcasing the importance of using the correct abbreviation in medical practice for effective patient care.