Methylparaben in Medications
Methylparaben: A Common Pharmaceutical Ingredient
Methylparaben is used in medications as a preservative to prevent microbial growth.
It does not treat medical conditions, but it plays an important role in product safety and shelf life.
What Is Methylparaben?
Methylparaben is a methyl ester of parahydroxybenzoic acid, a synthetic preservative widely used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
It may appear under several ingredient names on medication labels.
Why Is Methylparaben Used in Medications?
Methylparaben is used because it:
- Prevents bacterial and fungal contamination
- Extends shelf life of multi-dose liquids
- Is effective at low concentrations
- Works well in combination with other parabens
These properties make it useful in both prescription and over-the-counter products.
Ingredient Names to Look For
Methylparaben may be listed as:
- Methylparaben
- Methyl paraben
- Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate
Where Does Methylparaben Appear?
It is commonly found in:
- Oral suspensions and solutions
- Liquid formulations
- Creams, ointments, or gels
- Multi-dose injectables or topicals
How to Check a Medication’s Ingredient List
Ingredient lists can 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.