Inactive ingredient

Inactive ingredient is a term used in pharmaceutical industry to describe any component of a drug or medication that does not increase or affect the therapeutic action of the active ingredient. These ingredients are added to give the medication its color, shape, taste, and to preserve its stability and bioavailability.

Overview

Inactive ingredients are also known as excipients. They are used in the formulation of a drug product and included for a variety of reasons. They may be used to aid in the manufacturing process, to protect, support or enhance stability, or for bioavailability or patient acceptability. They may also assist in product identification and enhance any other attribute of the overall safety and effectiveness of the drug during storage or use.

Role of Inactive Ingredients

While inactive ingredients do not have a direct impact on the intended therapeutic effect of the drug, they play a crucial role in the overall functionality of the medication. Some of the roles of inactive ingredients include:

• Binding Agents: These help to hold the tablet together and give it its shape.
• Fillers or Diluents: These are used to bulk up the formulation to a practical size for compression.
• Disintegrants: These help the tablet to break up when it comes into contact with water in the gut.
• Lubricants: These are used to ensure that the tablet does not stick to the equipment during the tablet compression process.
• Coating Agents: These are used to protect the tablet from the environment, to mask the taste or odor of the active ingredient, and to make the tablet easier to swallow.

Safety of Inactive Ingredients

Despite their name, inactive ingredients can cause reactions in some patients. These reactions can range from mild irritation to more severe allergic reactions. It is important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of any known allergies or sensitivities to medications.

See Also

• Active ingredient
• Pharmaceutical formulation
• Drug delivery

Inactive ingredient Resources
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