elix
Medical abbreviation · Pharmacy
| Stands for | Elixir |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
elix stands for Elixir, a pharmacy abbreviation.
Clear, sweetened oral solution containing alcohol along with water, used to dissolve drugs that are not water-soluble. Phenobarbital and older diphenhydramine and dexamethasone liquids were classic elixirs.
Example: Dexamethasone 0.5 mg/5 mL elix, take 10 mL now.
Usage notes
The 1937 Elixir Sulfanilamide disaster, in which a diethylene glycol solvent killed more than 100 people, led directly to the 1938 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requiring safety testing before marketing. Modern pediatric products minimize alcohol, so many former elixirs are now alcohol-free solutions.
Related abbreviations
More pharmacy abbreviations
- DR – Delayed release
- DS – Double strength
- DSCSA – Drug Supply Chain Security Act
- DTC – Direct-to-consumer advertising
- DUR – Drug utilization review
- EC – Enteric-coated
- ER – Extended release
- ES – Extra strength
- GITS – Gastrointestinal therapeutic system
- GPO – Group purchasing organization
- gtt – Drip (continuous infusion)
- HAM – High-alert medication
See all 134 pharmacy abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.