What is a liquid dosage form where the medication is completely dissolved in the solvent?

A liquid dosage form where the medication is completely dissolved in the solvent is known as a solution. In a solution, the active pharmaceutical ingredient is uniformly distributed at the molecular level throughout the solvent, which results in a clear and stable mixture. This characteristic allows for consistent dosing and ease of absorption when administered, as the medication is readily available for the body to utilize.

In contrast, a suspension contains solid particles that are dispersed throughout a liquid but are not fully dissolved, which can lead to settling over time. An emulsion consists of two immiscible liquids that are mixed together with the help of an emulsifier, but again, the active ingredient is not completely dissolved. An extract typically represents a concentrated form of a substance obtained through a specific extraction process, where active ingredients may be present in varying levels of solubility and concentration, rather than being fully dissolved in a liquid.

Thus, a solution is distinct because of its complete dissolution of the medication, ensuring that all dosing is precise and effective.