Which abbreviation is used for an Elixir?

• A. Trade/Brand name
• B. Elix.
• C. Tolerance
• D. Cap.

Answer: (B)

Abbreviations on prescriptions tell you the form of the medication, not just what the drug is called. An elixir is a sweetened hydroalcoholic solution taken by mouth, and the standard abbreviation used to denote this dosage form is Elix. This signals to the pharmacist that the preparation is a liquid, oral form with alcohol and flavoring, different from solids like tablets or capsules or from other liquids like syrups. A trade or brand name identifies the marketed product rather than the preparation type, tolerance refers to a pharmacologic effect that changes with exposure, and Cap. stands for capsule, a solid dosage form. Remembering that Elix. specifically means an elixir helps ensure the correct preparation and safety, especially for patients who should avoid alcohol.