Which mortar is commonly used for compounding preparations?

• A. Wedgwood
• B. Porcelain
• C. Glass
• D. Marble

Answer: (C)

The material of the mortar-pestle matters because you want a surface that is non-porous, inert, and easy to clean so drugs aren’t absorbed, contaminated, or altered during grinding. Glass mortar fits best for routine compounding because its smooth, non-porous surface doesn’t absorb drugs or solvents and is easy to sterilize and clean, making it versatile for both dry powders and liquids that need to be made into pastes or suspensions.

Other types have drawbacks: rougher surfaces like Wedgwood mortars can grind tough materials but may trap residues and are harder to clean, risking cross-contamination. Porcelain mortars are smoother but can stain or interact with certain substances, and marble is porous, which can absorb liquids or oils and harbor contaminants. So glass provides the most reliable, broadly compatible option for daily compounding.