What are "excipients" in drug formulation?

Excipients are indeed inactive substances that serve as vehicles or agents for active ingredients in drug formulations. They play a crucial role in the drug product because they facilitate the delivery of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) while ensuring the stability, effectiveness, and acceptability of the medication to the patient.

In drug formulations, excipients can influence characteristics such as the release profile of the active ingredient, solubility, and overall bioavailability. They may include substances like fillers, binders, lubricants, preservatives, and flavoring agents, depending on the dosage form and intended route of administration.

This definition highlights the importance of excipients in making pharmaceuticals safe and effective, helping to ensure that the active drugs can be effectively absorbed and utilized by the body while maintaining the integrity of the formulation during its shelf life.