The multifunctional properties of lecithin make it an ideal additive for pharmaceutical applications. Both natural and synthetic lecithin are utilized in pharmaceutical formulations. Although, organic phospholipids are preferred due to their economic, large-scale availability, and purity.
Natural phospholipids are known as pharmacopoeias in the drug industry. It is an FDA-approved additive, making it more worthy of the pharmaceutical industry. Synthetic lecithin is best to avoid in medicinal formulations due to the increased risk of adverse reactions.
LECITEIN assures quality production of all lecithin variants: sunflower lecithin, soy lecithin, rapeseed lecithin, and more, through a controlled and monitored environment. Being a global producer of lecithin, we aim to provide sustainability for your business.
The drug delivery process refers to the various technology, formulations, manufacturing, and approaches for desired therapeutic drug effect. As a large quantity of materials is involved, the drug delivery process faces significant challenges. Some of those challenges are mentioned below:
One of the major concerns of the drug formulators is bio-efficacy. It is the capacity of a minimum drug dose to maximum response, also known as the therapeutic effect. A drug with the highest observed efficacy is known as Intrinsic Activity or IA.
Drug effectiveness depends mainly upon the binding ability of drug biomolecules with drug receptors and bio-efficacy. A higher bio-efficacy relies upon solubility and permeation. Soluble drugs with limited absorption tend to reduce their effectiveness. Hence, lowering the desired therapeutic effect.
To enhance solubility and infusion, lecithin acts as a binding force and maximizes the beneficial results of the drug. The phospholipids of the natural lecithin can improve bio-efficacy and drug affinity.
Here, we will discuss various roles of lecithin as an excipient for pharmaceutical applications:
A liposome is a tiny artificial vesicle that acts as a drug delivery vehicle with one or more lipid bilayers. It is used to carry nutrients and drugs. Phospholipids of lecithin boost the encapsulation capacity of the liposome. Plant-based lecithin contains less polyunsaturated fatty acids than animal-based lecithin, making them a more stable source for liposome production.
Lecithin acts as a surfactant that prevents the clumping of particles in a mixture. It helps to reduce and control the viscosity of the dispersion. It can also improve the stability of a suspension.
Complex interactions between two liquids can lead to chances of supersaturation. It can cause crystallization of the product exposing it to possible impurities and unwanted solid particles. Lecithin can prevent crystallization by acting as an interferant to separate and purify a chemical mixture.
One of the critical applications of lecithin is as an emulsifying agent. Its hydrophobic end helps in infusing the water-oil mixture. It dramatically improves the infusion of chemical doses in topical ointments.
In the pharmaceutical industry, lecithin is used in mainly two forms:
Solid form lecithin can act as a dispersing agent for oral tablets and powered drugs. It is known to be an efficient releasing agent for capsules. When added in solid form, it can help delay the crystallization process in a suspension.
Spherical particles of two liquid mixtures are not miscible. So, liquid lecithin is used for emulsification in ointments and creams. It is also used to produce medicated confectionery like medicated chewing gums.
The percentage of phospholipid choline is a determinant factor for setting lecithin dosage. A minimum of 45% of PC content is required for oral and dermal formulation. For Parenteral use, a 70% PC is recommended. Natural phospholipids are suitable for oral and topical administration. For advanced parenteral products, phospholipids of high purity are crucial.
Besides being an excipient, lecithin has exceptional healing properties making its use significant to the pharmaceutical industry and drug formulation. Some of the health benefits of lecithin are mentioned as follows:
Natural lecithin, like soy lecithin, reduces bad cholesterol levels, LDL. It improves the production of good cholesterol, HDL, in the blood profile. A study conducted in 2010 showed that if 500 milligrams of lecithin is taken daily for two months, it can reduce LDL levels by 56.15%.
Choline is an essential component of healthy brain functioning. As lecithin contains choline, it can significantly enhance brain activity and neurological conditions. It can act as a shield to prevent or lessen any brain-damaging disease. Further studies are being conducted to explore the possible health benefits of lecithin for the brain.
The topical application of lecithin can aid in developing healthy skin. For the same reason, it is used in creams, moisturizers, and cosmetic products. Its anti-oxidant properties can brighten skin cells and reduce dermal irritation.
The phosphatidylcholine in lecithin is known to reduce inflammation in the colon. It helps protect against bacterial infection. Regular intake of lecithin supplements can also significantly reduce bowel inflammation.
Lecithin intake can help clear clogged ducts. If the blocked ducts are not treated, it can lead to inflammation of breast tissues. A regular intake of recommended lecithin dose can treat mastitis.
To increase the bio-efficiency of drug formulation, the quality of lecithin used is crucial. LECITEIN acknowledges the demand for organic plant-based lecithin production for pharmaceutical needs.
Our expert team carefully monitors lecithin processing to ensure the end product is chemical and contamination-free. We believe in chemical-free products and follow strict standardization protocols.
We provide multiple lecithin variations so you can always get the best quality in every form. Our team is readily available for consultation and guidance. Reach out to us for expert lecithin advice and quick order processing.
Depending on the extraction method used, sunflower lecithin can have varying PC and acid content and yield. Different extraction processes are also preferred for different applications.
Sunflower lecithin can be acquired in food grade, pharmaceutical grade, and industrial grade. Each grade has unique characteristics and applications and is meant for a separate industry.
By reducing clumping and separation, improving bioavailability and absorption, and extending shelf life, sunflower lecithin can improve the stability and efficacy of oil-based supplements.
By controlling oxidation, microbial growth, improving texture and appearance, and enhancing nutritional value, sunflower lecithin can help manufacturers improve the shelf life and stability of their food products.