Convert Grains to Apothecary Drams
Convert Grains (gr) to Apothecary Drams (dr ap) instantly and accurately.
Conversion Formula
dr ap = gr × 0.01666666667
About Grains
A grain (gr) is the smallest unit in both the avoirdupois and troy weight systems, equal to exactly 64.79891 milligrams. Originally defined as the mass of a single grain of barley or wheat from the middle of an ear, it has been a standard of weight since ancient times. Today, grains are used to weigh gunpowder charges and bullets (a standard .308 rifle bullet weighs 168 gr), pharmaceutical preparations in apothecary compounding, and the fineness of gold alloys. Arrowhead and fishing hook weights are also specified in grains.
About Apothecary Drams
An apothecary dram (dr ap) equals 3 scruples or 60 grains - approximately 3.888 grams. Part of the traditional apothecary system used by physicians and pharmacists from the Middle Ages through the 19th century, it was the standard unit for prescribing and dispensing medicines. Prescriptions written in the apothecary system used special symbols: the dram symbol (℈) and ounce symbol (℥) appear throughout historical medical records and old pharmacy ledgers. The apothecary dram differs from the fluid dram (a volume unit) and from the avoirdupois dram.
Quick Reference Table
| Grains (gr) | Apothecary Drams (dr ap) |
|---|---|
| 1 gr | 0.0166667 dr ap |
| 2 gr | 0.0333333 dr ap |
| 5 gr | 0.0833333 dr ap |
| 10 gr | 0.166667 dr ap |
| 25 gr | 0.416667 dr ap |
| 50 gr | 0.833333 dr ap |
| 100 gr | 1.66667 dr ap |