What does the abbreviation "susp" signify in pharmacy terms?

The abbreviation "susp" in pharmacy terms signifies "suspension." A suspension is a type of liquid formulation that contains solid particles dispersed throughout a liquid medium. These solid particles are not dissolved in the liquid and can settle out over time, which is why suspensions need to be shaken before administration. Understanding this term is crucial for pharmacy technicians, as it directly impacts how medications are prepared, stored, and administered. The other terms like "supplement," "solution," and "sustained release" represent different concepts in pharmaceuticals and do not relate to the function and characteristics of a suspension. Therefore, "susp" specifically correlates to the formulation of medications intended to be mixed just prior to use to ensure the solid particles are evenly distributed in the liquid.