What does "mcg" stand for in pharmacology?

In pharmacology, "mcg" stands for microgram, which is a unit of measurement for mass equal to one millionth of a gram. This small unit is commonly used in medication dosages where precise and small amounts of the substance are crucial for efficacy and safety. It allows for accurate dosing of potent substances, often seen in medications where higher doses could lead to toxicity or adverse effects.

The usage of micrograms in dosage forms is particularly significant in areas such as hormone replacement therapy, anticoagulants, and certain vitamins or supplements, where even a small variation in dosage can have significant effects on the patient’s health. Understanding these units is essential for pharmacy technicians to ensure accurate medication dispensing and patient safety.