Dictionary

An excipient is an inactive substance that is used as a carrier or diluent for the active ingredient in a drug. Excipients are used in pharmaceuticals to help improve the drug’s stability, appearance, and flow properties and aid in the manufacturing process. They are usually inactive in nature and do not have therapeutic effects. Excipients can be divided into several categories, including fillers, binders, lubricants, disintegrants, and glidants. They can be made from a range of materials, including sugars, starches, celluloses, and polyethylene glycols, among others. Excipients are carefully selected and evaluated for their compatibility with the active ingredient and their potential impact on the stability and efficacy of the drug. They play an essential role in improving the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products and ensuring that drugs are effective, safe, and easy to use.

Excipients serve various functions, such as:

1. Improving the texture or consistency of the medication
2. Helping to preserve the stability of the active drug ingredient
3. Making the medication easier to manufacture or handle
4. Improving the bioavailability of the active drug ingredient
5. Providing a suitable vehicle for the delivery of the active drug ingredient.

It is important to note that some excipients may have potential side effects or interact with other medications.