Erythritol

Synonyms:  Butane 1,2,3,4-tetrol; 1,2,3,4-butanetetrol; C*Eridex; E968; erythrite; erythritolum; erythroglucin; meso-erythritol; phycite; tetrahydroxybutane; Zerose

Description:  Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) that occurs as a white or almost white powder or granular or crystalline substance. It is pleasant tasting with a mild sweetness approximately 60–70% that of sucrose. It also has a high negative heat of solution that provides a strong cooling effect.

Chemical Name: (2R,3S)-Butane 1,2,3,4-tetrol

Sweetening agent; tablet and capsule diluent; taste-masking agent.

• Erythritol is a naturally occurring noncariogenic excipient used in a variety of pharmaceutical preparations, including in solid dosage forms as a tablet filler, and in coatings.

• It has also been investigated for use in dry powder inhalers.

• It is also used in sugar-free lozenges and medicated chewing gum.

• Erythritol can also be used as a diluent in wet granulation in combination with moisture-sensitive drugs.

• In buccal applications, such as medicated chewing gums, it is used because of its high negative heat of solution which provides a strong cooling effect.

• Erythritol is also used as a noncaloric sweetener in syrups it is used to provide sensorial profile-modifying properties with intense sweeteners; and it is also used to mask unwanted aftertastes.

• Erythritol is also used as a noncariogenic sweetener in toothpastes and mouthwash solutions.

Erythritol is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and strong bases

Erythritol is used in oral pharmaceutical formulations, confectionery, and food products. It is generally regarded as a nontoxic, nonallergenic, and nonirritant material. However, there has been a case report of urticaria caused by erythritol.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of the material handled. Eye protection and a dust mask or respirator are recommended.

Mannitol; sorbitol; xylitol.