Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid widely used as an excipient in supplement manufacturing. Derived from animal and vegetable fats, it functions primarily as a lubricant and binder to improve prod...
Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid widely used as an excipient in supplement manufacturing. Derived from animal and vegetable fats, it functions primarily as a lubricant and binder to improve production efficiency and maintain the structural integrity of tablets and capsules. At the low levels typically found in supplements, stearic acid is generally considered safe. However, consumption of very high doses could potentially lead to minor gastrointestinal discomfort. As it is an excipient, it does not possess inherent active ingredient benefits.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Dosage is not applicable as it's primarily an excipient; typical amounts used in supplements are very low (e.g., <50mg per tablet/capsule).
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Stearic acid is typically produced through the hydrolysis of triglycerides (fats and oils) from both animal and vegetable sources. This process breaks down the triglycerides into glycerol and fatty acids, including stearic acid. The stearic acid is then isolated and purified.
Use Type
BothPotential Benefits
Manufacturing aids are lubricants used during tablet and capsule production to prevent ingredients from sticking to equipment. This ensures consistent product quality and efficient manufacturing.
Lubricants minimize friction during pharmaceutical manufacturing processes like tablet compression and capsule filling. This leads to increased efficiency, reduced equipment wear, and improved product consistency.
Binders are excipients that ensure the structural integrity of tablets and capsules by holding ingredients together. They are essential for maintaining the dosage form's shape and preventing disintegration before administration.
Possible Side Effects
Hypothetically, this substance can cause mild skin irritation with redness, itching, and burning at the application site, resolving on its own.
Gastrointestinal discomfort includes nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, typically mild and transient. Symptoms are often dose-dependent and vary in severity.
Scientific Evidence
While specific studies on stearic acid as a supplement excipient are limited, its use in pharmaceutical and food industries is well-established and supported by manufacturing guidelines. Safety is based on its long history of use and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status by regulatory bodies for food applications.
User Reviews
Share your experience with this ingredient
Log in to write a reviewNo reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!