Essential Compounding Equipment and Tools

Measuring and Weighing Equipment

Accurate measurement is critical in compounding. Class III prescription balances are used for weighing ingredients from 120 mg to 120 g. Electronic analytical balances offer greater precision. The minimum weighable quantity depends on the balance's sensitivity requirement and desired accuracy (typically 5% or less error).

Graduated cylinders measure liquid volumes. Always read the meniscus at eye level, measuring at the bottom of the curved surface. For small volumes, use conical graduates; for larger volumes, cylindrical graduates are more accurate.

Mixing and Compounding Tools

Mortars and pestles come in glass (for mixing liquids and levigating), porcelain or Wedgwood (for grinding), and porcelain (general purpose). Ointment slabs (glass or parchment paper) are used for mixing ointments and creams with a spatula.

Other essential tools include beakers for heating, hot plates for melting bases, molds for suppositories, and capsule-filling machines. Each piece of equipment must be properly cleaned between uses to prevent cross-contamination.

Exam Review

Know your compounding equipment for the PTCB exam. Study with flashcards and practice exams.