What is a critical factor in determining the potency of a compounded preparation?

The potency of a compounded preparation is fundamentally determined by the ingredients used and their specific proportions. Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) must be used in accurate amounts to ensure that the final compounded product delivers the intended therapeutic effect. If the dosage of an active ingredient is too low, it may not provide the necessary efficacy, and if it is too high, it could lead to toxicity or adverse effects. Therefore, precise measurement and proper formulation are crucial to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the compound.

While factors such as the color of the preparation, fragrance, and packaging may contribute to patient acceptance and the overall presentation of the product, they do not influence the actual potency in terms of therapeutic effectiveness. These factors have a more aesthetic and marketing role rather than a scientific impact on the efficacy of the compounded medication.