Roles of Excipients

What is the function of diluent?

To form a tablet suitable for handling

What are examples of diluent?

lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol

What is the function of glidant?

To improve powder flow into tablet die by reducing inter-particulate friction

What are examples of glidants?

silica, magnesium stearate, talc

What is the function of a binder?

To bind powder particles together in granules and bind granules in tablet

What are dry binder examples?

cellulose, methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol

What are solution binder examples?

Gelatin, sucrose, starch, cellulose derivatives

What is the function of lubricant?

To facilitate ejection of the tablet by reducing friction between tablet and die

What are examples of lubricants?

magnesium stearate, stearic acid, polyethylene glycol

What is the function of anti-adherents?

to reduce adhesion between powder and the surface of punches to prevent particles to stick to the punches

What are examples of anti-adherents?

talc, magnesium stearate, silica, starch, cellulose

What is the function of disintegrants?

to facilitate break up into small fragments in presence of liquid, which increases surface area and promotes rapid drug dissolution

What are examples of disintegrants?

starch, cellulose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose

What are the functions of buffering agents?

to change dissolution rate, and change chemical stability in solution by altering pH

What is the function of flavouring agents?

Gives the tablet a more pleasant taste or mask an unpleasant taste

What is the function of colouring agents?

Provide aesthetic appeal and safety, and increase the stability of light-sensitive drugs