Understanding Syrup 40/200 Dosage Notation
A 40/200 dosage designation in a syrup formulation indicates a combination product containing two active ingredients at concentrations of 40 mg and 200 mg per standard dosing unit (typically per 5 mL), respectively.
Dosage Notation Interpretation
The slash notation (40/200) represents a fixed-dose combination where:
- The first number (40) indicates the amount of the first active ingredient in milligrams
- The second number (200) indicates the amount of the second active ingredient in milligrams
- Both amounts are typically expressed per standard volume unit (usually 5 mL for oral syrups) 1
Common Examples in Clinical Practice
Fixed-dose combination products use this notation format consistently:
- Rifamate® capsules contain RIF (300 mg) and INH (150 mg), which could be expressed as 300/150 1
- Rifater® tablets contain RIF (120 mg), INH (50 mg), and PZA (300 mg), expressed as 120/50/300 1
- This standardized notation allows prescribers to quickly identify the exact composition of combination products 1
Clinical Application
When encountering a 40/200 syrup designation:
- Verify the specific active ingredients from the product label or formulary, as the numbers alone don't identify which drugs are present 2
- Confirm the volume per dose (typically 5 mL for syrups, but may vary) to calculate total daily intake accurately 1
- Calculate weight-based dosing for pediatric patients by determining the mg/kg dose for each component separately 1
Important Considerations
Always consult the specific product labeling to confirm:
- The identity of each active ingredient 2
- The exact volume that contains the stated milligram amounts 1
- Any special reconstitution or preparation requirements 3
- Storage conditions and stability after opening 3
The notation system provides a standardized method for communicating fixed-dose combinations, but proper identification of the specific drug components remains essential for safe prescribing 2, 4.