An oily vehicle and solubilizer of lipophilic APIs for oral and topical lipid-based formulations (LBFs).
Names & synonyms
USP NF Name | Medium chain triglycerides |
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EP Name | Triglycerides medium chain |
UNII Code (FDA) | C9H2L21V7U |
Preferred Substance Name (FDA) | MEDIUM-CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES |
Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients | MEDIUM-CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES |
Chemical description | Consists of medium-chain triglycerides of caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids |
Key characteristics
Product form | Liquid |
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Viscosity (mPa.s) | 25 - 33 (20°C) |
HLB | 1 |

Main functionnalities
Oily vehicle in LFCS Type I, Type II (SEDDS), and Type III formulations (SMEDDS). Oil phase for topical formulations. Oily vehicle and solubilizer for solutions. Safety of use is inferred by food additive status and precedence of use in approved pharmaceutical products.
Main formulation technologies
Oily and self-emulsifying lipid formulation for oral applications. Topical ointment, emulsion, microemulsion, and foam. Oily vehicle for injectable veterinary drugs.
Documentation
Documentation technique
Brochures
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Gattefosse brochure Lipid excipients for cannabinoid drug products
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Gattefosse brochure Oral drug delivery with lipid excipients
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Gattefosse Brochure Skin-Friendly Textures
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Gattefosse brochure veterinary medicines with Lipid excipients
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Brochure Gattefosse Lipid-based formulations a winning strategy to overcome oral bioavailability challenges
Associated content
Excipients for solubility and bioavailability enhancement
Poor solubility, poor permeability, and pre-systemic elimination are factors that…