Names and synonyms
USP NF Name
Propylene glycol monolaurate (type II)
EP Name
Propylene glycol monolaurate (type II)
UNII Code (FDA)
40KT317HGP
Preferred Substance Name (FDA)
PROPYLENE GLYCOL LAURATES
Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients
Propylene glycol monolaurate
Chemical description
Consists of propylene glycol mono- and di- esters of lauric (C12) acid, mainly composed of monoesters and a small fraction of diesters
Key characteristics
Product form
Liquid
Viscosity (mPa.s)
25 (20°C)
HLB
3
Main functionalities
Solubilizer for poorly-soluble APIs and bioavailability enhancer. Cosurfactant in LFCS Type II (SEDDS) and Type III (SMEDDS) formulations. Solubilizer and cosurfactant for microemulsion in topical formulation. Safety of use is inferred by precedence of use in approved pharmaceutical products.
Main formulation technologies
Self-emulsifying lipid formulation for oral applications. Topical emulgel, microemulsion.
