An excipient is a pharmacologically inactive substance that is intentionally added to a medication or drug formulation. It serves a variety of purposes in the formulation, such as aiding in the manufacturing process, improving stability, enhancing drug absorption, and providing a suitable medium for drug delivery.
Excipients are essential components of pharmaceutical formulations and are used in various dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, creams, gels, injections, and aerosols. They are chosen based on their compatibility with the active drug and their ability to enhance its therapeutic effect.
Common excipients include fillers, binders, lubricants, disintegrants, glidants, preservatives, flavoring agents, coloring agents, and solubilizers. Fillers, also known as diluents, provide the additional volume needed to form tablets and capsules. Binders help hold the powders or granules together. Lubricants reduce friction during tablet compression and ejection from the die. Disintegrants promote tablet breakup and drug release. Glidants improve the flowability of powders. Preservatives prevent the growth of microorganisms and extend shelf life. Flavoring agents and coloring agents improve the taste and appearance of oral medications. Solubilizers increase the solubility of poorly soluble drugs.
Excipients must meet regulatory standards and be safe for consumption. They should not interact with the active drug, cause adverse effects, or alter the therapeutic activity of the medication. The selection of suitable excipients is based on factors such as the desired dosage form, stability requirements, drug characteristics, and patient acceptability. Overall, excipients play a crucial role in the successful formulation of pharmaceutical products, contributing to their effectiveness, safety, and patient satisfaction.
