Polysorbate is a broad term referring to a family of synthetic chemical compounds used for various purposes, including some medical applications. Here's a breakdown:
Chemical Composition:
- Surfactants: Polysorbates are a type of surfactant, meaning they can lower the surface tension of liquids. This allows them to act as emulsifiers, dispersing oil or fat in water and vice versa.
Medical Uses:
- Solubilizer: In medicine, one of the primary uses of Polysorbate is as a solubilizer. It helps dissolve hydrophobic (water-fearing) medications in water-based solutions for injections or other liquid preparations.
- Excipient: Polysorbates can also function as excipients in medications. Excipients are inactive ingredients that help with the formulation, stability, and delivery of the medication.
External Links
Polysorbate