Which term is used to identify a liquid form of medication that is typically sweetened and flavored?

The term that identifies a liquid form of medication that is typically sweetened and flavored is "elixir." Elixirs are often used to make medications more palatable, especially for children or those who may have difficulty swallowing pills. They contain active ingredients dissolved in a combination of water and alcohol, along with sweeteners and flavorings to enhance taste and improve patient compliance with the medication regimen. This characteristic of being both medicinal and pleasant-tasting is what distinctly classifies elixirs in the context of pharmaceutical formulations.

In contrast, a solution refers to a homogeneous mixture where the solute is completely dissolved in the solvent, but it does not necessarily imply that the solution is sweetened or flavored. Suspensions are mixtures where solid particles are dispersed in a liquid but are not dissolved, which means they may require shaking before administration for proper dosage. Infusions involve steeping a substance (like herbs or tea) in boiling water and are often more focused on creating a drinkable concoction rather than a medicinal formulation. Thus, the distinction of elixirs as sweetened and flavored liquids specifically caters to the need for a more enjoyable medication experience.