What labeling is required for packaging suspensions?

• A. Shake well Before Use
• B. Do Not Shake
• C. Refrigerate Before Use
• D. Shake Before Opening

Answer: (A)

Suspensions require shaking to re-disperse settled particles, ensuring a uniform dose each time it’s taken. The solid drug particles slowly settle out of the liquid, so without shaking the portion drawn for an administration can be more concentrated or more dilute than intended. Labeling them to “Shake well before use” tells the patient to re-suspend the dose so the entire contents have the same concentration throughout.

Other options don’t fit because “Do Not Shake” would leave the dose uneven; “Refrigerate Before Use” isn’t a universal requirement for all suspensions and isn’t about agitation; and “Shake Before Opening” isn’t the standard instruction for ensuring uniform dosing once the bottle is used.