The strong solution of ammonium acetate is a clear, colorless pharmaceutical preparation commonly used as a systemic alkalizer and mild diuretic. It is often prescribed to manage mild urinary tract disturbances and to support electrolyte balance. In this pharmacy lab experiment, we demonstrate the accurate preparation of 100 mL of a 20% w/v strong ammonium acetate solution per official pharmacopeial standards. This step-by-step guide ensures proper solubility, clarity, and stability of the solution, making it suitable for clinical or research applications.

Aim: Preparation of a Strong Solution of Ammonium Acetate

References

1. Indian Pharmacopoeia – Monograph on Ammonium Acetate Solutions.
2. British Pharmacopoeia (BP) – Section on Solutions for Pharmaceutical Use.
3. Articles on “Ammonium Acetate Applications” from PubMed.

Objective

Prepare 100 mL of a strong solution of ammonium acetate as per pharmaceutical standards for use as a systemic alkalizer or diuretic.

Materials Required

Chemicals:

• Ammonium Acetate: 20 g
• Distilled Water: q.s. to 100 mL

Equipment:

• Analytical balance
• Beaker (100 mL)
• Stirring rod
• Measuring cylinder (100 mL)
• Funnel
• Storage bottle (Amber-colored)

Principle

The strong solution of ammonium acetate is prepared by dissolving a known quantity of ammonium acetate salt in distilled water to achieve a specific concentration (20% w/v). Ammonium acetate, a white crystalline salt, readily dissolves in water due to its ionic nature, forming a clear aqueous solution. This solution acts as a systemic alkalizer and diuretic in pharmaceutical applications. The accurate preparation involves proper weighing, complete dissolution, and volume adjustment to ensure uniformity, stability, and therapeutic effectiveness. The final solution is stored in amber bottles to prevent degradation from light exposure.

Procedure

1. Weighing:

1. Accurately weigh 20 g of ammonium acetate using an analytical balance.

2. Dissolution:

1. Transfer the ammonium acetate into a 100 mL beaker.
2. Add 70 mL of distilled water to the beaker.
3. Stir the mixture until the ammonium acetate dissolves completely.

3. Volume Adjustment:

1. Transfer the solution into a measuring cylinder and make up the volume to 100 mL with distilled water.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure uniformity.

4. Filtration (if necessary):

1. Filter the solution through a muslin cloth or filter paper to remove undissolved particles.

5. Packaging:

1. Transfer the prepared solution into an amber-colored storage bottle to protect it from light.

Label

• Product Name: Strong Solution of Ammonium Acetate
• Strength: 20% w/v Ammonium Acetate
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Precautions: For pharmaceutical use only. Keep out of reach of children.

Precautions

1. Use accurate weighing techniques to ensure the proper strength of the solution.
2. Ensure that ammonium acetate is completely dissolved before making up the volume.
3. Use distilled water to prevent contamination and ensure solution clarity.
4. Store in an airtight container to prevent absorption of moisture from the air.

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Viva-voce questions

1. What is a strong solution of ammonium acetate used for?

Answer: It is used as a systemic alkalizer and mild diuretic to manage electrolyte imbalances and urinary tract issues.

2. How do you make a 20% w/v ammonium acetate solution?

Answer: Dissolve 20 g of ammonium acetate in distilled water and make up the final volume to 100 mL.

3. Why is an amber bottle used for storing ammonium acetate solution?

Answer: To protect the solution from light-induced degradation and preserve stability.

4. What precautions should be taken during preparation?

Answer: Ensure accurate weighing, complete dissolution, and use of distilled water to maintain pharmaceutical quality.

5. Is filtration necessary while preparing the ammonium acetate solution?
Answer: Yes, if there are undissolved particles, filtration ensures the solution is clear and suitable for pharmaceutical use.