The Role of D-Sucrose (CAS 57-50-1) in Pharmaceutical Formulations
D-Sucrose, identified by CAS 57-50-1, is a critical component in pharmaceutical manufacturing, serving primarily as a tablet excipient. Its unique physical and chemical properties make it an indispensable ingredient in the creation of stable, effective, and patient-friendly dosage forms.
As a white or almost white crystalline powder, D-Sucrose offers excellent compressibility and flowability, properties essential for efficient tablet manufacturing. Its granular form allows for uniform filling of tablet dies during the compression process, ensuring consistent tablet weight and hardness. This reliable physical form, derived from its molecular formula C12H22O11, contributes significantly to the smooth operation of high-speed tablet presses.
One of sucrose's key functions as an excipient is its role as a binder. In powder blends, sucrose particles can form cohesive bonds with other ingredients when compressed. This binding action holds the tablet together, preventing it from crumbling or disintegrating prematurely. The specific optical rotation and crystalline nature of sucrose contribute to its binding efficacy.
Sucrose is also utilized as a diluent or filler in tablet formulations. For active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that are potent and required in very small doses, diluents are necessary to increase the bulk of the formulation to a practical size for tablet compression. D-Sucrose, with its inert nature and consistent purity, serves this purpose effectively without interfering with the API's therapeutic action. Its low levels of impurities, such as heavy metals and chlorides, are paramount in ensuring the safety and compatibility with pharmaceutical ingredients.
Furthermore, sucrose can be used in coating formulations for tablets, providing a smooth, protective layer. This coating can mask unpleasant tastes, improve swallowing, protect the API from environmental factors like moisture and light, and control drug release. The predictable chemical properties of sucrose make it a reliable component in these specialized coatings.
The long-term stability of pharmaceuticals is also influenced by excipients. D-Sucrose, when stored correctly (in cool, dry conditions), offers good stability, helping to maintain the integrity of the formulated product over its intended shelf life. This is particularly important for medications that may be stored for extended periods before use.
In summary, D-Sucrose (CAS 57-50-1) is far more than a simple sugar; it is a vital pharmaceutical excipient. Its physical characteristics—crystalline powder, good flow, and compressibility—combined with its chemical properties—binding capabilities, inertness, and stability—make it an essential ingredient for creating high-quality tablets. The assurance of its purity standards, including low heavy metal content, further solidifies its importance in the pharmaceutical industry.
Perspectives & Insights
Molecule Vision 7
“This reliable physical form, derived from its molecular formula C12H22O11, contributes significantly to the smooth operation of high-speed tablet presses.”
Alpha Origin 24
“In powder blends, sucrose particles can form cohesive bonds with other ingredients when compressed.”
Future Analyst X
“This binding action holds the tablet together, preventing it from crumbling or disintegrating prematurely.”