A nonionic oil-in-water surfactant used as solubilizer in topical formulations.
Names & synonyms
| USP NF Name | Caprylocaproyl Polyoxyl-8 glycerides |
|---|---|
| EP Name | Caprylocaproyl macrogol-8 glycerides |
| UNII Code (FDA) | 00BT03FSO2 |
| Preferred Substance Name (FDA) | PEG-8 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES |
| Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients | Polyoxylglycerides |
| Chemical description | Consists of a small fraction of mono-, di- and triglycerides and mainly PEG-8 (MW 400) mono- and diesters of caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids |
Key characteristics
| Product form | Liquid |
|---|---|
| Viscosity (mPa.s) | 80 - 110 (20°C) |
| HLB | 12 |
| CMC (mg/L, 25°C) | 42 ±24 |
Main functionalities
Solubilizer and skin penetration enhancer. O/W surfactant for microemulsion. Able to form light foams with pump device (no gas required).
Safety of use is inferred by extensive toxicological evaluations and precedence of use.
Main formulation technologies
Topical gel, microemulsion, and foam.
Associated content
Selecting penetration enhancers, for transdermal delivery
To overcome the skin barrier properties, many strategies exist, among which the use…