Glycerin in Pharmaceuticals: Uses, Grades & Sourcing Guide

Glycerin (CAS 56-81-5), also known as glycerol, is a naturally occurring polyol compound that plays a critical role in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic manufacturing. With the molecular formula C₃H₈O₃, glycerin is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a sweet taste and remarkable versatility.

## What Is Glycerin?

Glycerin is produced as a byproduct of biodiesel production and soap manufacturing, or through the synthetic hydrolysis of propylene. It is hygroscopic — meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air — which makes it an excellent humectant in formulations.

## Pharmaceutical Applications

**Oral Medications**
Glycerin USP is widely used as a solvent, sweetener, and humectant in oral liquid medications, syrups, and elixirs. Its sweet taste makes it particularly useful in pediatric formulations.

**Topical Formulations**
Pharmaceutical-grade glycerin is used in creams, ointments, and gels as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. It draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain hydration.

**Injectable Formulations**
High-purity glycerin is used as a solvent in some injectable formulations and as an osmotic agent in intravenous solutions.

**Suppositories**
Glycerin suppositories are a well-established laxative, using glycerin's osmotic and lubricating properties to stimulate bowel movements.

**Capsule Manufacturing**
Glycerin is used in the production of soft gelatin capsules as a plasticizer, giving the capsule shell its characteristic flexibility.

## Food & Cosmetic Applications

Beyond pharmaceuticals, glycerin is used extensively in food products as a humectant and sweetener, and in cosmetics as a moisturizing agent in lotions, serums, and hair care products.

## Available Grades

- USP/EP Grade (Pharmaceutical)
- Food Grade (FCC)
- Kosher Certified
- Vegetable-derived vs. Synthetic

## Source Glycerin Through OpenFormula

OpenFormula supplies glycerin in USP, food grade, and industrial grades. Request a competitive quote with 24-hour turnaround.