When is it inappropriate to compound lozenges?

Compounding lozenges is considered inappropriate when they are unstable at high temperatures. Stability is a critical factor in compounding any pharmaceutical product, including lozenges, as instability can lead to degradation of active ingredients or changes in the formulation's efficacy. High temperatures can affect the physical and chemical properties of the ingredients, leading to altered potency or potential breakdown of the medication.

In contrast, while a lozenge that is too sweet, has a short shelf life, or poses a choking risk may present practical or consumer-related concerns, these factors do not directly affect the fundamental stability and effectiveness of the compounding process itself. A compound may still be safe to create but may require careful monitoring of sweetness levels or be used with appropriate labeling regarding shelf life or choking hazards. Hence, the most critical aspect when assessing the appropriateness of compounding lozenges lies in their thermal stability.