What is the Origin of Vehicle Oil?

The term is derived from the Latin vehiculum (a means of conveyance), applied to the oil's function as a carrier for the active agent. This concept is fundamental to the science of compounding and drug formulation, where the choice of vehicle is critical for bioavailability.

What is the Mechanism of Vehicle Oil?

The vehicle oil's mechanism is primarily to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of lipophilic active ingredients by presenting them in a readily absorbable, fat-soluble matrix. Upon ingestion or injection, the oil facilitates the transport of the active compound across biological membranes, often by integrating into the micelle formation process in the gastrointestinal tract or by acting as a depot for slow release in intramuscular injections.

Vehicle Oil ∞ Area

Vehicle Oil

Meaning

In pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulations, a pharmacologically inert liquid substance, typically a refined vegetable or mineral oil, used as the primary medium to dissolve, suspend, or carry an active drug or supplement ingredient. The vehicle oil is essential for facilitating drug delivery, ensuring proper absorption, and stabilizing the compound for storage and administration, particularly for lipophilic substances.