How to Convert a USP to IU

USP units are used for measuring the recommended dose for certain medications. This standard was adopted by the United States Pharmacopoeia, a drug-standard compendium. Even though most medications currently are being distributed on a mass basis instead of unit, a conversion is sometimes still necessary. In most situations, USP units are identical to International Units (IUs), but there still are some important differences to consider.

Instructions

• 1

  Locate the prescription from your doctor or the instructions included in the box of your medication.

• 2

  Search for the recommendations in terms of dose.

• 3

  Establish whether the USP unit is an endotoxin, which are abbreviated as "USP-EU". These units are identical to international units, and no conversion is needed.

• 4

  Call U.S. Pharmacopeia at 800-227-8772 or 301-881-0666 if there is no "-EU" after the USP symbol. A phone calls is necessary since the values differ from case to case and the conversion can be done only by a specialist. After calling, ask for a member of the scientific staff, who will be able to provide you with an accurate answer after asking you some questions.