How is a syrup defined in pharmaceutical terminology?

A syrup in pharmaceutical terminology is defined as a concentrated mixture of sugar and water that also contains active ingredients. This definition highlights the critical components of a syrup: it is primarily comprised of a sugar base, which not only acts as a sweetener but also serves as a preservative, allowing the syrup to have a longer shelf life. The presence of water helps dissolve the sugar, creating a homogeneous liquid.

Active ingredients are dissolved or suspended within this sugar-water mixture, enabling effective delivery of the medication in a palatable form, especially useful for patients who may have difficulty swallowing pills, such as children. This format is especially popular in liquid medications due to its ease of use and the ability to mask unpleasant tastes with sweetness.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a syrup is in the context of pharmaceuticals. For instance, a mixture of oil and alcohol does not represent a syrup, nor does a liquid form of a solid medication or a type of paste medication. Thus, option B is the most accurate and reflective of the definition of syrup in the field of pharmacy.