Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

Calcium stearate (C36H70CaO4) is a mixture of calcium oxide with solid fatty acids such as stearic and palmitic acids. It is used as pharmaceutical excipient in manufacturing and used for tablet and capsule lubrication. It has good anti-adherent and lubricant properties but poor glidant properties. Calcium stearate is also used in cosmetics and food products.^[1]

Calcium stearate is used in oral drug formulations and is reported as nontoxic and nonirritant. It is listed on the FDA Generally Regarded as Safe database.^[1][2]