Which lubricant is most commonly used in powder formulations?

Magnesium stearate is the most commonly used lubricant in powder formulations primarily due to its excellent properties that facilitate the processing and flow of powders during manufacturing. It is often added to powdered formulations to reduce friction between the particles, enhancing the flowability and ensuring a more uniform distribution during tablet compression. This results in improved tablet integrity and consistency in dosage.

Magnesium stearate is a stearate salt derived from stearic acid and is recognized for its effectiveness in preventing adhesion of the powder to manufacturing equipment, especially during tablet formation. The hydrophobic nature of magnesium stearate helps in forming a thin layer around the particles, reducing clumping and aiding in the smooth flow of the powder.

In contrast, while calcium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and silica gel have their own benefits and applications, they are not as widely employed as magnesium stearate in powdered formulations. Calcium stearate can serve both as a lubricant and emulsifier but is less effective in achieving the desirable flow characteristics. Sodium lauryl sulfate, primarily an anionic surfactant, is used for different purposes, such as enhancing solubility and wetting. Silica gel, often used as a desiccant, helps to reduce moisture