Product Details
Category
Stiffening Agents; Suspending Agents; Tablet Binder; Tablet and Capsule Diluent
Molecular Formula
(C6H10O5)n·xH2O
Molecular Weight
(162.14)n
Grade
Pharmceutical Excipients
Description
Dextrin is partially hydrolyzed maize (corn), potato or cassava starch. It is a white, pale yellow or brown-colored powder with a slight characteristic odor.
Synonyms
Avedex; British gum; Caloreen; canary dextrin; Crystal Gum; dextrinum; dextrinum album; Primogran W; starch gum; yellow dextrin; white dextrin
Administration route
IV injections, oral and topical
Dosage Form
IV injections, oral tablets and topical preparations
Stability and Storage Conditions
Physical characteristics of dextrin may vary slightly depending on the method of manufacture and on the source material. In aqueous solutions, dextrin molecules tend to aggregate as density, temperature, pH, or other characteristics change.
Source and Preparation
Dextrin is prepared by the incomplete hydrolysis of starch by heating in the dry state with or without the aid of suitable acids and buffers; moisture may be added during heating.
Applications
Dextrin is a dextrose polymer used as an adhesive and stiffening agent for surgical dressings. It is also used as a tablet and capsule diluent; as a binder for tablet granulation; as a sugar-coating ingredient that serves as a plasticizer and adhesive; and as a thickening agent for suspensions. Additionally, dextrin has been used as a source of carbohydrate by people with special dietary requirements because it has a low electrolyte content and is free of lactose and sucrose. Dextrin is also used in cosmetics.
Safety
Dextrin is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material at the levels employed as an excipient. Larger quantities are used as a dietary supplement without adverse effects, although ingestion of very large quantities may be harmful. LD50 (mouse, IV): 0.35 g/kg
Incompatibilities
Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.