What is the primary role of lubricants in pharmaceutical formulations?

Lubricants play a crucial role in pharmaceutical formulations primarily by reducing friction between particles and machine parts during the manufacturing process. This function is essential in the production of tablets and capsules, as it ensures a smooth flow of powder blends through processing equipment. When the friction is minimized, it helps to prevent issues such as sticking, caking, or clumping of powders, which can adversely affect the uniformity and quality of the final product.

A well-formulated lubricant contributes to the efficiency of the compression process; it allows for easier ejection of tablets from the die, thereby improving manufacturing speed and reducing wear and tear on machinery. Proper lubrication is key to enhancing the overall performance of both the formulation and the equipment used in its production, ensuring that high-quality pharmaceutical products are consistently produced.