_____ are lipid-free and used for incorporation of aqueous solutions and solids.

• A. Gels
• B. Water-soluble bases
• C. Water-in-oil emulsions
• D. Oleaginous bases

Answer: (B)

Water-soluble bases are lipid-free and are designed to work with aqueous substances. Because they are hydrophilic and mix with water, they can readily incorporate aqueous solutions and water-soluble solids, distributing them uniformly in the base and releasing them when the preparation comes into contact with bodily fluids. This makes them ideal for formulations that carry aqueous drugs or solid particles that dissolve or disperse in water. In contrast, lipid-based bases (oleaginous) resist mixing with water, and emulsions or gels either retain oil phases or rely on a network that isn’t as straightforward for incorporating pure aqueous solutions. So the best fit for a base that is lipid-free and suited to incorporating aqueous solutions and solids is a water-soluble base.