Stearic Acid

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 21, 2024.

Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

Stearic acid, also known as n-octadecanoic acid (C18H36O2), is a saturated, wax-like, fatty acid commonly used in the production of pharmaceutical tablets and capsules. It is made by extraction from animal or vegetable fats and oils.

In pharmaceutical dosage forms, stearic acid is used as an emulsifying agent, solubilizing agent, tablet and capsule lubricant. It is also commonly found in lotions, detergents, soaps, and shampoos, and is a natural component of cocoa butter and shea butter. Stearic acid use as an inactive ingredient must be approved by the FDA.^[1]

Some examples of medications containing Stearic Acid

• Acetaminophen 500mg
• Acetaminophen and Codeine Phosphate 300 mg / 30mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 5 mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 7.5 mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 5 mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Oxycodone Hydrochloride 325 mg / 5 mg
• Acetaminophen and Oxycodone Hydrochloride 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Oxycodone Hydrochloride 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Oxycodone Hydrochloride 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Oxycodone Hydrochloride 325 mg / 10 mg
• Lortab 10/325 325 mg / 10 mg
• Methocarbamol 500 mg
• Methocarbamol 500 mg
• Methocarbamol 750 mg
• Oxycodone Hydrochloride 5 mg
• Oxycodone Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Oxycodone Hydrochloride 30 mg
• Oxycodone Hydrochloride 5 mg

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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