TOP5 citric acid products sold in china by 2024Xanthan gum has gained increasing attention in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. As a natural polysaccharide, it is safe, non-toxic, and offers excellent adhesion, controlled-release, and stabilizing properties, making it a versatile excipient for tablets, capsules, oral liquids, and dietary supplements.
In pharmaceuticals, xanthan gum is widely used as a disintegrant and binder in tablet formulations. It enhances the mechanical strength of tablets while swelling upon contact with gastrointestinal fluids, promoting rapid disintegration and drug release. Compared to synthetic excipients, xanthan gum is more sustainable and aligns with the green pharmaceutical movement.
Xanthan gum also serves as a controlled-release material. Its high molecular weight allows it to form viscous gels when hydrated, which helps regulate the release rate of active ingredients. This property is particularly valuable in sustained-release tablets for chronic conditions, such as diabetes, where it prevents sudden spikes in blood glucose levels.
In oral liquid formulations, xanthan gum functions as a suspending and thickening agent, keeping drug particles evenly dispersed and improving stability and palatability. Its gentle characteristics make it suitable for pediatric medicines and nutritional beverages for elderly consumers.
In the nutraceutical sector, xanthan gum is commonly added to protein shakes, dietary supplements, and functional foods to improve texture and stability. Furthermore, since it is not easily digested by the human body, xanthan gum can act as a soluble dietary fiber, contributing to gut health and digestive balance.
From a regulatory perspective, xanthan gum is considered safe in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. It is approved by both the FDA and EFSA with no specified daily intake limits. Scientific studies consistently confirm its safety at approved dosages.
Looking ahead, with the rise of chronic diseases and growing consumer interest in wellness, xanthan gum’s role in drug delivery systems, functional supplements, and personalized nutrition will continue to expand. Its natural origin, multifunctionality, and safety profile make it an excipient of choice in the evolving pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
