Corn Starch

Corn Starch in Medication: A Common Pharmaceutical Ingredient

Corn starch is widely used in medications as a binder, filler, and stabilizer.

It does not treat symptoms, but it plays an important role in how pills are made and how they behave once swallowed.

What Is Corn Starch?

Corn starch is a carbohydrate extracted from corn. In pharmaceuticals, it is refined for consistency and purity.

It may appear under several ingredient names.

Why Is Corn Starch Used in Medications?

Corn starch is used because it:

  • Helps tablets stay intact
  • Improves manufacturing flow
  • Assists with pill disintegration
  • Supports accurate dosing

These properties make it common in both brand-name and generic drugs.

Ingredient Names to Look For

Corn-derived ingredients may be listed as:

  • Corn starch
  • Pregelatinized starch
  • Modified starch
  • Starch (source not always specified)

Where Does Corn Starch Appear?

It is commonly found in:

  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Combination products
  • Some chewable medications

How to Check a Medication’s Ingredient List

Ingredient details can vary even between medications with the same active ingredient.

? Use PillParser to scan a medication and view its ingredient list.



Type a brand (Advil) or generic (Ibuprofen). We’ll find the label details.

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.