___________ are thickening agents used in the preparation of suspension.

Suspending agents are indeed thickening agents used in the preparation of suspensions. Their primary function is to improve the viscosity of the liquid, allowing solid particles to remain uniformly distributed and preventing them from settling to the bottom of the container. This ensures that the medication is properly mixed and can be effectively administered to patients.

These agents enhance the stability and palatability of liquids, which is especially important in pharmaceutical formulations where consistent dosing is crucial. Common examples of suspending agents include substances like methylcellulose, guar gum, and xanthan gum.

The other types of agents mentioned, such as electrolytes, flocculating agents, and preservatives, serve different purposes in pharmaceutical formulations. Electrolytes might help with maintaining pH balance or osmolality, flocculating agents help promote the aggregation of suspended particles, and preservatives are used to prevent microbial growth. However, when it comes to thickening and providing the necessary texture for suspensions, suspending agents are the correct choice.