Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Understanding Pharmacy Terms

There are times when medications are available in different dosage forms but the differences are not really understood. So here are the definitions of certain terms commonly used in pharmacy.

Chewable tablet (Chew tab) - a tablet that should be chewed, not swallowed whole.

Tablet - a medicine taken by mouth that is swallowed whole.

Caplet - a tablet that must be swallowed whole, but it's oblong shaped for ease of swallowing.

Softgel -a gelatin capsule usually containing a liquid.

Sprinkle Capsule - a capsule that is meant to be opened and sprinkled on food.

Scored - the tablet (or chew tab) can be split in half.

Double scored - the tablet can be split into quarters.

Suspension - a liquid that must be shaken well prior to use.

E.R. (ER) - Extended Release

Otic - for the EAR

Ophthalmic (Ophth.) - for the EYE

Topical - applied to the skin

Let me know if I can help with any other terms.

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