Emulsions contain oil and most oils undergo oxidation.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Unknown

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that oils in dosage forms are prone to oxidation, and emulsions inherently contain oil. Oils are typically triglycerides that may have unsaturated fatty acids. Those double bonds can react with oxygen in a radical chain process started by factors like light, heat, or metals. This autoxidation forms lipid hydroperoxides and degradation products that cause rancidity, off-flavors, and reduced quality. In an emulsion, the oil droplets are dispersed in the water phase, which increases the surface area exposed to oxygen and other oxidants, making oxidation a common stability concern. Because many commonly used pharmaceutical oils are susceptible to oxidation, it’s accurate to say emulsions contain oil and most oils undergo oxidation over time. In practice, antioxidants and protective packaging are used to slow this process.