Zinc Stearate

Synonyms: Cecavon; Demarone; dibasic zinc stearate; HyQual; Kemilub; Metallac; stearic acid zinc salt; Synpro; zinc distearate; zinc octadecanoate; zinc soap; zinci stearas.

Description: Zinc stearate occurs as a fine, white, bulky, hydrophobic powder, free from grittiness and with a faint characteristic odor.

Chemical Name: Octadecanoic acid zinc salt

Tablet and capsule lubricant. 

• Zinc stearate is primarily used in pharmaceutical formulations as a lubricant in tablet and capsule manufacture at concentrations up to 1.5% w/w.

• It has also been used as a thickening and opacifying agent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical creams, and as a dusting powder.

Zinc stearate is decomposed by dilute acids. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.

Zinc stearate is used in oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations, and is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant excipient. However, following inhalation, it has been associated with fatal pneumonitis, particularly in infants. As a result, zinc stearate has now been removed from baby dusting powders.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Eye protection and gloves are recommended. Zinc stearate may be harmful on inhalation and should be used in a well-ventilated environment; a respirator is recommended.

Calcium stearate; magnesium stearate; stearic acid.