What is the purpose of dilution prior to administration of a sterile compound?

The purpose of dilution prior to the administration of a sterile compound primarily revolves around preventing incompatibility. When preparing sterile compounds, especially those involving active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), it is essential to ensure that the final preparation remains stable and effective. Dilution can help in managing concentrations of certain compounds that might otherwise react adversely with one another, leading to precipitation or degradation. By diluting a concentrated solution, the risk of such incompatibilities can be minimized, allowing for safer and more effective administration of the medication.

In some cases, incompatible compounds might not only lose their efficacy but could also pose risks to patient safety if administered together in a concentrated form. Thus, proper dilution helps in achieving a compatible formulation that maintains the integrity of the active ingredients throughout the shelf life and during administration. This approach is critical in sterile compounding, where the balance of chemical compatibility is fundamental to the quality and safety of compounded medications.