NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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Which agent is used as a levigating agent for lipophilic compounds?

Water
Mineral oil
Glycerin
Alcohol

The correct answer is: Mineral oil

Mineral oil is commonly used as a levigating agent for lipophilic (oil-loving) compounds because it helps to disperse these ingredients evenly throughout a formulation. Mineral oil is an inert, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic substance that is effective in reducing the particle size of insoluble components, making it easier to incorporate them into a final product. In contrast, water, glycerin, and alcohol are not typically used as levigating agents for lipophilic compounds. Water is a polar solvent and is more suitable for hydrophilic (water-loving) compounds. Glycerin is a humectant commonly used in skincare products to attract water to the skin. Alcohol is often used as a solvent or preservative in formulations, but it is not ideal for levigating lipophilic compounds. Therefore, mineral oil is the most appropriate choice as a levigating agent for lipophilic compounds due to its ability to effectively disperse these types of ingredients.