What does the abbreviation "mg" represent in medication dosages?

The abbreviation "mg" represents milligram, which is a unit of mass commonly used to measure medication dosages. Understanding this abbreviation is crucial for safe medication administration, as it helps ensure that patients receive the correct amount of medication. A milligram is equal to one-thousandth of a gram, making it a precise measure for substances that may have potent effects even in small amounts. In clinical practice, dosages often need to be accurately calculated in milligrams to avoid overdosing or underdosing patients, emphasizing the importance of correctly interpreting this abbreviation for effective patient care.