Milligram to Dram Conversion Calculator: Free Online Tool
Convert milligrams to drams with our free online weight converter.
Milligram to Dram Calculator
How to Use the Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Milligram).
- The converted value in Dram will appear automatically in the 'To' field.
- Use the dropdown menus to select different units within the Weight category.
- Click the swap button (⇌) to reverse the conversion direction.
How to Convert Milligram to Dram
Converting Milligram to Dram involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Milligram = 0.000564383 dramsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 milligrams: 5 × 0.000564383 = 0.00282191 drams
Disclaimer: For Reference Only
These conversion results are provided for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the precision of these results, especially for conversions involving extremely large or small numbers which may be subject to the inherent limitations of standard computer floating-point arithmetic.
Not for professional use. Results should be verified before use in any critical application. View our Terms of Service for more information.
What is a Milligram and a Dram?
The milligram is a unit of mass in the metric system equal to one-thousandth of a gram (1/1000 g) or one-millionth of a kilogram (1/1,000,000 kg). It is commonly used for measuring very small quantities.
The dram (or drachm) can refer to several units. In the context of common weight conversion (Avoirdupois system), it is a unit of mass equal to 1/16 of an ounce or 1/256 of a pound. This Avoirdupois dram is approximately 1.7718 grams.
Note: The Milligram is part of the metric (SI) system, primarily used globally in science and trade. The Dram belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Milligram and Dram
Like the gram, the milligram's definition is derived directly from the kilogram. Its use became prevalent with the need for precise measurements in science and medicine as the metric system was adopted globally.
The term originates from the Greek drachma coin. It became a unit in multiple historical weight systems (Avoirdupois, Apothecaries', Troy). The Avoirdupois dram was used for general commodities.
Common Uses for milligrams and drams
Explore the typical applications for both Milligram (metric) and Dram (imperial/US) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for milligrams
- Pharmaceuticals: Measuring the dosage of medications, pills, and active ingredients in drugs.
- Scientific Research: Common unit for mass measurements in chemistry labs, biology, and physics experiments for very small quantities.
- Nutrition & Supplements: Used for labeling the content of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in dietary supplements.
- Precision Manufacturing: Weighing very lightweight items like microelectronic components, fine powders, or precious materials.
- Analytical Chemistry: Standard unit for quantifying trace elements and compounds in samples.
Common Uses for drams
- Historical Measurement: Found in older texts and recipes.
- Ammunition Reloading: Powder charges are sometimes measured in dram equivalents (though grains are more common).
- Note: The fluid dram (fl dr) is a unit of volume in the Apothecaries' system, distinct from the Avoirdupois dram mass unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Milligram (mg)
How many milligrams are in a gram?
There are 1,000 milligrams (mg) in 1 gram (g).
Is the milligram used in everyday life?
Its most common everyday use is in medication dosages and supplement information. It's less common for general weighing compared to grams or kilograms.
What does 'milli' mean in milligram?
The prefix 'milli' denotes one-thousandth (1/1000).
About Dram (dr)
How many drams are in an ounce (avoirdupois)?
There are 16 drams (dr) in 1 avoirdupois ounce (oz).
How many grams are in a dram (avoirdupois)?
There are approximately 1.771845 grams (g) in 1 avoirdupois dram (dr).
Is a dram a unit of mass or volume?
It can be both, which causes confusion. The Avoirdupois dram (dr) is mass (1/16 oz). The fluid dram (fl dr) is volume (1/8 fl oz).
Conversion Table: Milligram to Dram
| Milligram (mg) | Dram (dr) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.001 |
| 5 | 0.003 |
| 10 | 0.006 |
| 25 | 0.014 |
| 50 | 0.028 |
| 100 | 0.056 |
| 500 | 0.282 |
| 1,000 | 0.564 |
All Weight Conversions
Other Units from Weight
- Kilogram (kg)
- Gram (g)
- Pound (lb)
- Ounce (oz)
- Stone (st)
- Ton (metric) (t)
- Ton (US) (ton)
- Ton (UK) (long ton)
- Microgram (µg)
- Carat (ct)
- Slug (sl)
- Troy Ounce (oz t)
- Pennyweight (dwt)
- Grain (gr)
- Quintal (q)
- Atomic Mass Unit (u)
- Pavan (India) (pavan)
- Kati (India) (kati)
- Masha (India) (masha)
- Dina (India) (dina)
- Pras (India) (pras)
- Lota (India) (lota)