Which material is preferred for its less chemical interactions and ability to be sterilized?

Glass is preferred for its less chemical interactions and ability to be sterilized due to its inherent properties. Unlike plastic, glass does not leach chemicals into the compounds it contains, which can lead to undesirable reactions or contamination of sterile preparations. This characteristic makes glass a stable and reliable choice for medication storage and preparation, especially in sterile compounding environments.

Additionally, glass can withstand high temperatures and steam, making it suitable for various sterilization techniques such as autoclaving. This ensures that any microbial contamination is effectively eliminated, maintaining the integrity and safety of the compounded preparations. Metal and rubber, while they have their own advantages, can interact with certain drugs or are more difficult to sterilize compared to glass. Therefore, glass stands out as the optimal choice in situations that prioritize minimal chemical interaction and effective sterilization.