What does the term "aqueous" refer to in pharmacology?

The term "aqueous" in pharmacology specifically refers to substances that are dissolved in water. This is important because water is a common solvent in many pharmaceutical preparations and biological systems. When a drug is described as being an aqueous solution, it indicates that the active ingredients are fully dissolved in water, which can significantly influence the drug's absorption, distribution, and overall efficacy in the body. This property is critical for ensuring proper drug formulation and delivery, especially for medications that must be administered intravenously or in liquid form.

Understanding the nature of aqueous solutions helps healthcare professionals anticipate how a medication will behave in different environments, including its solubility and stability. In contrast, other solvents like organic solvents, alcohol, or mineral-containing solutions are not characterized as 'aqueous' and serve different purposes in formulation and pharmacology.