Propylene Glycol in the Medical Industry
When the body’s integumentary system is in such poor shape it necessitates medical attention, chances are high the medication prescribed by a physician contains propylene glycol as an ingredient. This mild, quickly absorbed water-soluble viscous alcohol rapidly soothes and protects skin to enhance healing. USP ingredient supplier Bell Chem ensures its inventory contains propylene glycol (CH3CH[OH]CH3OH) for its suppliers to manufacture the proper formulation of medications for their customers. Learn about its most prominent medical uses.
Radiation Therapy
Patients undergoing radiation therapy often develop topical partial thickness burns due to the intensity of treatment. Applying propylene glycol moisturizes the skin to ease the pain of the burns while its antibacterial properties stimulate healing.
Diaper Rash
Infants with diaper rash require a fast-acting ingredient to prevent chafing and further skin damage. Propylene glycol creates a barrier between the skin and bacteria as it expedites healing. Because it is considered biocompatible, discomfort is alleviated.
Intensive Care
Patients in intensive care may require intravenous doses of lorazepam, phenobarbital, nitroglycerine, diazepam or other strong medications. Propylene glycol as a diluent maintains a steady, proper dosage of these powerful medications.
How it Works
Propylene glycol is a versatile USP ingredient that works in a few different ways, serving several different purposes in the medical field. Here are some of the main roles it plays:
Topical silver sulfadiazine uses propylene glycol as an inactive ingredient to increase its overall coverage. Other gels and creams contain propylene glycol for this same function.
As an inactive ingredient, propylene glycol is also the go-to ingredient for many tablets and capsules to ensure proper dosage of medication over a specific time period.
As a solvent, propylene glycol dissolves solids into structures containing the same properties as the original product, only in small enough portions for the body’s cells and tissues to readily utilize.
Bell Chem is a USP ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including propylene glycol. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.