Dilution in Pharmacology

Dilution is applied mainly to alter the dose or strength of a product for a particular ______.

The diluent is selected based on its compatibility with the ______ of the original product.

Dilution can be applied to liquid dosage forms, such as solutions or ______.

The strength of a solution is reduced by ______ if the original quantity is doubled.

If a mixture is concentrated by evaporation to one-half its original quantity, the strength will be ______.

The percentage strength decreases as the quantity ______.

Pharmacists may dilute concentrated ______, alcohol preparations, or very potent therapeutic agents.

For solid dosage forms, dilution can be performed on powders or the contents of a ______.

Dilution

Dilution is used to change the dose or strength of a product.
Dilution is applied to liquid dosage forms like solutions and suspensions.
The dilution of a liquid dosage form can be done to provide a more suitable strength for a specific patient (e.g., pediatric, elderly, or those with disease states).
The diluent should be compatible with the vehicle of the original product.
Dilution can also apply to solid dosage forms (powders/capsules) and semisolid dosage forms (ointments/creams).
Pharmacists may dilute concentrated acids, alcohol preparations, or potent therapeutic agents.
Strength and quantity are inversely proportional.
If a mixture is diluted to twice its original quantity, the strength is halved.
For example, diluting 50 mL of a 20% solution (1:5 w/v) to 100 mL results in a 10% solution (1:10 w/v). The original volume is doubled but the strength is halved, while the amount of active ingredient remains the same.
Conversely, if a mixture is concentrated by evaporation to half its original quantity, the strength is doubled.
For example, evaporating a 10 g in 50 mL (20%) solution to 25 mL, the strength becomes 40% (1:2.5 w/v).
This relationship between strength and quantity is generally true for all mixtures, excluding solutions where components contract upon mixing.

This quiz explores the concept of dilution in pharmacology, focusing on its application in various dosage forms. Learn about how dilution affects the strength and quantity of solutions, and how pharmacists utilize this process for patient-specific needs. Test your understanding of key principles and examples related to dilution.