A high-purity solvent and powerful solubilizer associated with skin penetration enhancement in topical dosage forms.
Names & synonyms
USP NF Name | Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether |
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EP Name | Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether |
UNII Code (FDA) | A1A1I8X02B |
Preferred Substance Name (FDA) | DIETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOETHYL ETHER |
Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients | Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether |
Chemical description | Consists of highly purified diethylene glycol monoethyl ether |
Key characteristics
Product form | Liquid |
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Viscosity (mPa.s) | 4.8 (20°C) |
HLB | Not applicable |

Main functionnalities
Solvent and powerful solubilizer. Penetration enhancer for topical formulations. Safety of use and low irritancy inferred by numerous toxicological studies and precedence of use in approved topical medicines.
Main formulation technologies
Topical gel, emulgel, emulsion, foam, microemulsion, and ointment.
Resources
Technical documentation
Associated content
Selecting penetration enhancers, for transdermal delivery
To overcome the skin barrier properties, many strategies exist, among which the use…