How to convert milligrams to micrograms
To convert a measurement in milligrams to micrograms, multiply the value by 1,000. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the kilogram.
For example, to convert 5 mg to micrograms: 5 × 1,000 = 5,000 µg.
What is a milligram?
A milligram is a metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth of a gram (0.001 g) or one millionth of a kilogram. Part of the original metric system, the milligram derives from the Latin 'mille' (thousand). It became indispensable in pharmacy and medicine, where drug doses are almost always expressed in milligrams.
Common uses of milligrams include: Medication and supplement dosages; Nutrient amounts on nutrition labels (sodium, vitamins); Laboratory chemistry and analytical work; Gunpowder and reloading measurements.
What is a microgram?
A microgram is a metric unit of mass equal to one millionth of a gram (0.000001 g) or one billionth of a kilogram. The microgram (sometimes abbreviated 'mcg' in medicine to avoid confusion with 'mg') became important with the discovery of vitamins and hormones that are active in tiny quantities. The prefix 'micro' comes from the Greek for 'small'.
Common uses of micrograms include: Vitamin and trace-mineral dosages (e.g. vitamin D, B12); Hormone and potent drug amounts; Environmental contaminant concentrations; Analytical chemistry and toxicology.
Milligrams to micrograms worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 mg = 1,000 µg 5 mg = 5,000 µg 10 mg = 10,000 µg 50 mg = 50,000 µg 100 mg = 100,000 µg
Frequently asked questions
How many micrograms are in one milligram?
One milligram (mg) equals 1,000 micrograms (µg). Multiply any value in milligrams by 1,000 to convert to micrograms.
How do I convert milligrams to micrograms?
Multiply the value in milligrams by 1,000. For example, 5 mg × 1,000 = 5,000 µg.
How do I convert micrograms to milligrams?
Multiply the value in micrograms by 0.001, or divide by 1,000. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the milligram to microgram conversion exact?
Yes. Since 1959 the international pound is defined as exactly 0.45359237 kg, so all weight conversions between metric and avoirdupois units use exact factors.
What is the formula for milligrams to micrograms?
The formula is: µg = mg × 1,000. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the kilogram.