Shellac (Pharmaceutical glaze) in Medications
Shellac (Pharmaceutical glaze): A Common Pharmaceutical Ingredient
Shellac is used in medications as a coating agent. It does not treat medical conditions, but it plays an important role in tablet protection and appearance.
What Is Shellac (Pharmaceutical glaze)?
Shellac is a natural resin purified for pharmaceutical use. In pharmaceuticals, it forms glossy or enteric coatings. It may appear under several ingredient names on medication labels.
Why Is Shellac Used in Medications?
Shellac is used because it:
- Forms protective film coatings
- Provides enteric or delayed release
- Seals against moisture
- Improves gloss and swallowability
These properties make it useful in both prescription and over-the-counter products.
Ingredient Names to Look For
Shellac may be listed as:
- Shellac
- Pharmaceutical glaze
- Confectioner’s glaze
Where Does Shellac Appear?
It is commonly found in:
- Coated tablets
- Enteric-coated products
- Sealed dosage forms
- Combination products
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.