Ontario Registered Pharmacy Technician (RphT) Practice Exam

Which of the following auxiliary labels should always be placed on a prescription for an oral suspension?

1. Take with food

2. Store in the refrigerator

3. Take with lots of water

4. Shake well before each use

The correct answer is: Shake well before each use

Shake well before each use is the most appropriate auxiliary label to be placed on a prescription for an oral suspension because it ensures that the medication is evenly mixed and distributed before each use. This is important for oral suspensions as the liquid medication may settle at the bottom of the container over time. It also ensures that the patient receives the full intended dose each time they take the medication. The other options, although important for certain medications, are not specific to oral suspensions and may not be necessary in all cases. Take with food may only be necessary for certain medications that may cause stomach discomfort, store in the refrigerator may only be needed for medications that are sensitive to heat, and take with lots of water may only be needed for medications that can cause dehydration. Therefore, shake well before each use is the best and most appropriate auxiliary label for an oral suspension.