Another method of medication dosage calculation is the "fractional equation" method. You can choose which method you prefer to use.

Formula: (H / V) = (D / X)

Order : Morphine Sulfate 8 mg, IV, q 3h prn pain

H: the dosage written on the medication label or in other words, what is "on hand."

V: the "vehicle" or the form in which the medication is prepared (e.g. tablet, capsule, liquid)

D: the medication dose ordered by the physician or nurse practitioner

X: the "unknown" amount to be administered