PEG 400 (Polyethylene Glycol 400) is utilized in tablets as an inactive ingredient, serving multiple purposes. According to the provided reference, PEG is used as a solvent, plasticizer, surfactant, and tablet lubricant in the pharmaceutical industry.
Here's a breakdown of its functions:
- Solvent: PEG 400 can help dissolve other ingredients in the tablet formulation, ensuring even distribution.
- Plasticizer: It can improve the flexibility and malleability of the tablet, making it easier to compress and preventing it from becoming brittle.
- Surfactant: PEG 400 can reduce surface tension, which aids in the wetting and dissolution of the tablet in the body, improving drug absorption.
- Tablet Lubricant: As a lubricant, PEG 400 reduces friction during the tablet manufacturing process, preventing sticking to machinery and ensuring smooth ejection.
Because of these properties and its low toxicity (with absorption into the body less than 0.5%), PEG 400 is a valuable excipient in tablet formulations.
