Frequently Asked Questions
What are inactive ingredients in medication?
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are non-medicinal components in tablets, capsules, and liquids.
They include fillers, binders, colorants, preservatives, and flavorings that help with stability, appearance,and absorption but don’t affect the therapeutic action.
They include fillers, binders, colorants, preservatives, and flavorings that help with stability, appearance,and absorption but don’t affect the therapeutic action.
Can inactive ingredients cause allergic reactions?
Yes. While inactive ingredients are generally safe, some can cause allergic or sensitivity reactions—especially those derived from milk, soy, gluten, corn, gelatin, or synthetic dyes. PillParser helps identify these potential allergens before you take your medication.
Why do inactive ingredients differ between brand and generic drugs?
Brand and generic medications contain the same active ingredient but may use different inactive ingredients such as fillers, dyes, or binders. These differences can affect allergen exposure, appearance, or tolerability for sensitive users.
Are all inactive ingredients listed on medication labels?
Yes. The FDA requires all inactive ingredients to be listed on prescription and over-the-counter drug labels. However, names and formats can vary by manufacturer. PillParser standardizes these names to help you recognize potential allergens.
How can I check if my medication contains allergens?
Use PillParser.com to enter a drug name and scan its inactive ingredients for possible allergen matches such as lactose, soy, gelatin, or dyes. Always confirm with your pharmacist before taking a new prescription or refill.