What is the meaning of the abbreviation susp in terms of medication formulation?

The abbreviation "susp" stands for suspension in the context of medication formulation. A suspension is a mixture in which solid particles are dispersed in a liquid but are not fully dissolved. This differentiation is crucial as suspensions require shaking before administration to ensure an even distribution of the medication particles, which is vital for proper dosing.

In medications, suspensions are often used when a drug is not soluble in the liquid that is used for its formulation. Therefore, recognizing "susp" as suspension enables healthcare providers and medication aides to understand that specialized handling may be necessary before administering the medication to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Understanding this term ensures that medication aides can safely and appropriately assist in medication administration, maintaining a high standard of care.