The Purpose of Magnesium Stearate
Magnesium stearate is a chemical compound which consists of magnesium and stearic acid (octadecanoic acid). It has a complex chemical formula Mg (C18H35O2)2. Magnesium stearate is used for a wide range of purposes in industry, particularly the pharmaceutical industry. Nearly 5 percent of the average 1,000 mg tablet or capsule contains magnesium stearate. It is obtained from both animal and vegetable oils.
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Properties
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The properties of magnesium stearate are correlated with differences in moisture content and crystalline structure. It is a solid chemical substance at room temperature. It is white in color, water insoluble and odorless. Magnesium stearate is stable at usual conditions of use and storage, with a melting temperature of around 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Magnesium stearate has natural lubricating properties.
Facts
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Magnesium stearate is not synonymous with stearic acid, but both magnesium stearate ingredients are loaded into most pills and tablets. The health benefits of magnesium stearate include maintaining muscles, bodily nerves and bones.
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Pharmaceutical Industry
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Magnesium stearate is a FDA-approved additive agent in medicines which itself has no pharmacological action. It is considered safe to be used along with medicines. In the tablet- and capsule-making industry, this agent acts as an additive that acts as a diluent of a medicine mixture. It also serves the purpose of a lubricating agent in tablet making, preventing the sticking of drug compounds against machine parts. Studies show that it serves this important function of lubrication and binding in tablets, resulting in some delay in dissociation of the drug in body, but does not effect the bioavailability of the drug significantly; hence, it is found to be a safe agent, which is invariably consumed in small quantities by humans while taking medicines.
Safety
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Magnesium stearate should strictly be used only in quantities recommended because there are concerns regarding its safety levels when consumed in high amounts. There are controversial views that it may cause immune suppression if consumed in quantities other than the prescribed dosage.
Uses
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Magnesium stearate is also used for purposes other than pharmacology. It is extensively used in the manufacturing of bath tub rings. In baby formula feeds, magnesium stearate is used as an additive in small concentrations. This useful magnesium derivative is used in the making of hard sugar candies. Magnesium stearate is also used in paints, plastics and adhesive manufacturing industries.
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References
- Photo Credit white tablets image by Aidairi from Fotolia.com
