FPGEE for National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Practice Exam 2026 - Free NABP Practice Questions and Study Guide

Surfactants play a vital role in preparing suspensions primarily by improving drug solubility or wetting. They are compounds that lower the surface tension between two substances, such as a solid and a liquid, which helps to disperse the solid particles throughout the liquid medium. This wetting effect enhances the ability of the drug particles to interact with the solvent, ensuring that they are adequately dispersed and do not settle out or clump together.

In the context of pharmaceutical suspensions, the use of surfactants helps to achieve a more uniform distribution of the active ingredient, which can enhance the overall stability and bioavailability of the medication. This is particularly important because poorly wetted particles can lead to inconsistent dosing and reduced effectiveness of the drug.

Other options may address different aspects of formulation, but they do not capture the primary function of surfactants in suspension preparation. For example, while surfactants can have some influence on flavor, this is not their main role in suspensions. Additionally, preventing crystallization or stabilizing emulsions involves concepts that differ from the core function of surfactants in enhancing drug wetting and dispersibility.