What does mEq represent in medication terminology?

The term mEq stands for milliequivalent, which is a unit of measurement used in pharmacology and medicine to express the amount of a substance based on its chemical activity or potential to combine with another chemical. It is particularly useful for electrolytes and other ions, as it accounts for both the concentration of the substance and its valence, or combining power. Understanding mEq is crucial for medication administration, especially when dealing with patients who may require precise electrolyte balance, such as those with heart or kidney conditions. This unit helps ensure that calculated dosages provide therapeutic effects without causing toxicity or adverse reactions.