FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) in Medications
FD&C Yellow No. 5: A Common Yellow Dye
FD&C Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine) is a color additive used in some medications for appearance and product identification.
It does not treat symptoms.
What Is FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine)?
FD&C Yellow No. 5 is a synthetic dye used in pharmaceuticals and foods. It may appear as a dye or as an aluminum lake in coatings.
Why Is FD&C Yellow No. 5 Used in Medications?
It is used because it:
- Provides consistent color
- Helps distinguish products or strengths
- Improves visual identification
Ingredient Names to Look For
It may be listed as:
- FD&C Yellow No. 5
- FD&C Yellow 5
- Yellow 5
- Tartrazine
- FD&C Yellow No. 5 Aluminum Lake
Where Does It Appear?
It is commonly found in:
- Tablet coatings
- Capsule shells
- Liquids, suspensions, and syrups
How to Check a Medication’s Ingredient List
Dyes vary by manufacturer and dosage form.
Use PillParser to scan a medication and view its ingredient list.
To keep PillParser free, anonymous scans are limited.
Understanding ingredient differences is especially important for individuals with known sensitivities. RxAllergyScan.com allows users to compare medication ingredients against their personal allergen profile.
Educational Note
This page provides educational information only and does not make medical claims.