Conversion Formula:
From: | To: |
International Units (IU) to milligrams (mg) conversion is used to translate biological activity measurements (IU) into mass measurements (mg). Different substances have different conversion factors based on their biological potency.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: The conversion factor varies by substance and represents the mass equivalent of one international unit of biological activity.
Details: Accurate conversion between IU and mg is crucial for proper medication dosing, nutritional supplement measurement, and standardization of biological measurements across different measurement systems.
Tips: Enter the IU value and the specific conversion factor for the substance you're converting. Both values must be positive numbers. Common conversion factors include Vitamin D: 0.025 mcg/IU, Vitamin A: 0.3 mcg/IU, etc.
Q1: Why are conversion factors different for different substances?
A: Conversion factors vary because different substances have different biological potencies per unit mass. One IU represents different amounts of mass for different substances.
Q2: Where can I find the correct conversion factor?
A: Conversion factors are typically provided by manufacturers, pharmacological references, or standardized biological assay documentation for each specific substance.
Q3: Is the conversion factor always constant?
A: For most well-standardized substances, conversion factors remain constant. However, some biological compounds may have slightly varying conversion factors based on the specific assay method used.
Q4: Can I use this calculator for all substances?
A: Yes, as long as you have the correct conversion factor for the specific substance you want to convert from IU to mg.
Q5: Why is precision important in these conversions?
A: High precision is crucial because small errors in conversion can lead to significant dosing errors, especially for potent medications and vitamins where biological activity is dose-dependent.