Stabilizer

Stabilizer refers to a variety of substances or devices that are used to maintain a system or process in a stable condition. In the context of medicine, stabilizers are often used in pharmaceutical products to ensure their chemical stability, physical integrity, and efficacy over time.

Types of Stabilizers in Medicine

There are several types of stabilizers used in medicine, including:

• Antioxidants: These are substances that prevent or slow down oxidation reactions, which can lead to the degradation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Examples include ascorbic acid, tocopherols, and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA).

• Chelating agents: These are compounds that can form several bonds with a single metal ion, helping to prevent the degradation of APIs due to metal-catalyzed oxidation. Examples include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and citric acid.

• pH stabilizers: These are substances used to maintain the pH of a pharmaceutical product within a certain range, which is often necessary for the stability and efficacy of the APIs. Examples include buffers, acids, and bases.

• Viscosity modifiers: These are substances used to adjust the viscosity of a pharmaceutical product, which can affect its stability, ease of administration, and release of APIs. Examples include cellulose derivatives, polyvinyl alcohol, and xanthan gum.

Applications of Stabilizers in Medicine

Stabilizers are used in a wide range of pharmaceutical products, including:

• Tablets and capsules: Stabilizers can help to maintain the physical integrity of these solid dosage forms, as well as the stability and efficacy of the APIs.

• Liquid dosage forms: Stabilizers can help to prevent the degradation of APIs, the growth of microorganisms, and the separation of components in these dosage forms.

• Topical preparations: Stabilizers can help to maintain the consistency and efficacy of these preparations, as well as the stability of the APIs.

• Parenteral preparations: Stabilizers can help to prevent the degradation of APIs, the growth of microorganisms, and the precipitation of components in these sterile dosage forms.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical formulation
• Drug stability
• Excipient
• Pharmaceutical industry

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