Magnesium Stearate: The Essential Tablet and Capsule Lubricant
Magnesium stearate is by far the most commonly used lubricant in pharmaceutical solid dosage form manufacturing. Present in the majority of commercial tablet and capsule formulations worldwide, it reduces friction between the powder blend and metal tooling during compression and filling, preventing sticking to punches and ensuring smooth ejection from dies.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 557-04-0 |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | Mg(C₁₇H₃₅COO)₂ |
| Appearance | White, fine, light powder with a faint characteristic odour |
| Function | Lubricant / anti-adherent / glidant |
| Typical Use Level | 0.25–5.0% w/w (most commonly 0.5–1.0%) |
| Compendial Grade | EP / USP-NF / JP |
Formulation Applications
Magnesium stearate is added as the final component in tablet and capsule blends and mixed for a short, controlled time — typically 2–5 minutes — to coat particle surfaces without over-lubrication. Excessive blending time or concentration can form a hydrophobic film that retards water penetration, slowing disintegration and dissolution. This is the primary formulation risk and must be managed through controlled blending parameters. Magnesium stearate is available in vegetable-sourced and bovine-sourced grades; the vegetable grade is increasingly standard for global markets. It should be noted that it can interact with acidic APIs or actives sensitive to alkaline microenvironments, and it is incompatible with strong acids, alkalis, and iron salts.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies magnesium stearate (vegetable and non-vegetable grades) in pharmaceutical grade 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 Magnesium Stearate –557-04-0?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Magnesium Stearate –557-04-0 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 Magnesium Stearate –557-04-0?
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.
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