Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in Medications

SLS: A Surfactant Used to Improve Mixing and Dissolution

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant that helps ingredients mix and can improve wetting and dissolution. In medications, it may appear in small amounts as a processing aid.

What Is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)?

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant that helps ingredients mix and can improve wetting and dissolution. In medications, it may appear in small amounts as a processing aid.

Why Is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Used in Medications?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is used because it:

  • Improves wetting so tablets dissolve consistently
  • Helps disperse ingredients evenly
  • Supports manufacturing consistency

Ingredient Names to Look For

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) may be listed as:

  • Sodium lauryl sulfate
  • SLS
  • Sodium dodecyl sulfate

Where Does Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Appear?

It is commonly found in:

  • Tablets and capsules (small amounts as a wetting agent)
  • Some topical products (as a surfactant)
  • Occasionally in oral suspensions (formulation-dependent)

How to Check a Medication’s Ingredient List

Inactive ingredients may vary between manufacturers, dosage forms, and strengths.

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





Adding the manufacturer filters generics (fillers/dyes often differ).

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.