Hard Fat: Suppository Base and Lipophilic Carrier
Hard fat (adeps solidus) refers to a mixture of semi-synthetic triglycerides, primarily derived from hydrogenated vegetable oils (palm kernel or coconut). It is the most widely used suppository base in European pharmacy, chosen for its sharp melting point near body temperature, chemical inertness, and ability to uniformly disperse both lipophilic and hydrophilic active ingredients.
Product Profile
| Appearance | White, waxy solid; brittle when cold |
|---|---|
| Function | Suppository base / lipophilic carrier / solid lipid matrix |
| Typical Use Level | Base material (up to 95–99% of suppository weight) |
| Compendial Grade | EP (Adeps Solidus) |
Formulation Applications
Hard fat is available in various grades defined by their hydroxyl value, melting range (typically 33–36°C), and solidification behaviour. Formulators select grades based on the displacement value and quantity of active ingredient to be incorporated. For drugs that raise the melting point of the base (e.g., high melting-point actives), a lower-melting hard fat grade is used to compensate. Hard fat is also used as a matrix material in sustained-release oral dosage forms and as a lipophilic carrier in hot-melt extrusion. It solidifies rapidly in moulds and has good contractile properties that facilitate easy demoulding. Processing involves melting at approximately 37–40°C, dispersing the active, and pouring into cooled moulds.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies hard fat in pharmaceutical grades with various melting ranges to formulators across Europe. Available in standard packaging with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Hard Fat – Suppository Base & Lipophilic Carrier for Solid Dosage Forms?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Hard Fat – Suppository Base & Lipophilic Carrier for Solid Dosage Forms usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Hard Fat – Suppository Base & Lipophilic Carrier for Solid Dosage Forms?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
Request a Quote
If your team already has a target application, estimated quantity, destination market, or documentation requirements, send those details so the commercial response can be prepared more efficiently.