Last updated: April 2024
Nomenclature of drugs
The International Non-proprietary Names (INN) of drugs is used in this guide.
Dosage
Prescription tables showing average dosage in drug units (tablets, ampoules etc.) according to weight or age of patients are included for the most commonly used drugs.
- For children:
- Oral drug dosages are expressed in milligrams per kilogram per dose, followed by the number of doses per day (e.g. 10 mg/kg 3 times daily). For doses expressed in ml (oral solutions and suspensions, or syrups), always use the measuring device included in the packaging by the manufacturer. If the measuring device is not provided with the drug, use an oral syringe, a measuring spoon or a medicine cup with graduations. Teaspoons and tablespoons should only be used as a last resort when no measuring device is available. A teaspoon contains approximately 5 ml, and a tablespoon approximately 15 ml.
- Injectable drug dosages are also expressed in milligrams per kilogram per injection, followed by the interval between injections (e.g. 10 mg/kg every 8 hours).
- For adults:
- Oral drug dosages are expressed in milligrams or grams per dose, followed by the number of doses per day (e.g. 500 mg 3 times daily).
- Injectable drug dosages are in general expressed in milligrams or grams per injection, followed by the interval between injections (e.g. 500 mg every 8 hours).
Dilution and administration of injectable drugs
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions as the primary source of information. Manufacturer’s instructions are tailored to the specific formulation and concentration of a drug to ensure its effectiveness and safe use.
The dilution and administration instructions in this guide are provided as a guidance, to be used only if the manufacturer’s instructions are not available.
Symbols
This box indicates potentially toxic drugs, administered under medical prescription only in many countries.
Recommendations for drug storage