Question

Which one of the following is not labelled as bulking agent?

• A. Citric acid
• B. Sorbitol
• C. Glycerol
• D. Hydrogenated starch hydrolyzates

Hint:

Remember that different excipients have specific roles and functions in drug formulations. Identifying their primary uses can help distinguish between them.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Concept
Bulking agents are excipients used in pharmaceutical formulations to increase the bulk or volume of a drug product without significantly affecting its other properties. They do not have active medicinal effects.

Step 2: Meaning
Bulking agents serve as fillers that help in achieving the desired dosage form characteristics, such as weight and volume, while maintaining the stability and efficacy of the formulation.

Step 3: Analysis
- Citric Acid (A): Citric acid is commonly used as a flavoring agent, preservative, and pH adjuster. It does not serve to increase bulk or volume in formulations. - Sorbitol (B): Sorbitol is often used as a bulking agent because it provides sweetness without significantly affecting the osmolality of the formulation. - Glycerol (C): Glycerol can be used as a humectant, solvent, and also acts as a bulking agent in some formulations. - Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolyzates (D): These are commonly used as bulking agents due to their ability to provide bulk without affecting the taste or texture of the formulation. Given this analysis, Citric acid is not labelled as a bulking agent among the options provided.

Step 4: Conclusion
Citric acid does not function primarily as a bulking agent in pharmaceutical formulations. Final Answer: (A)