1. What is Pharmacy Alligation?

Alligation is a method used in pharmacy to calculate the relative proportions of two solutions of different strengths that need to be mixed to prepare a solution of intermediate strength. It's particularly useful when compounding medications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the alligation formula:

Where:

• \( High \) — Concentration of stronger solution (%)
• \( Low \) — Concentration of weaker solution (%)
• \( Desired \) — Target concentration (%)

Explanation: The formula calculates the ratio in which two solutions must be mixed to achieve the desired concentration.

3. Importance of Alligation in Pharmacy

Details: Alligation is essential for accurate medication preparation, especially when compounding solutions, IV preparations, or diluting stock solutions to specific concentrations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the concentrations of your high and low solutions, and your desired concentration. The calculator will show the mixing ratio needed.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can alligation be used for solid mixtures?
A: Yes, the same principle applies when mixing powders or other solid dosage forms of different strengths.

Q2: What if my desired concentration is outside the range?
A: The desired concentration must always be between your high and low concentrations for this method to work.

Q3: How precise is this method?
A: Alligation provides mathematically precise ratios, but actual preparation requires careful measurement and mixing.

Q4: Can I use this for more than two components?
A: This calculator handles two components. For more complex mixtures, alternate methods like alligation alternate may be needed.

Q5: Are there limitations to this method?
A: Alligation assumes linear mixing properties and doesn't account for potential chemical interactions between components.