Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) – Sustained-Release Matrix Former, Thickening Agent, and Stabilizer for Liquid and Topical Pharmaceutical Formulations

1. General Introduction to Polyethylene Oxide

Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) is a synthetic polymer of ethylene oxide with an exceptionally high molecular weight, ranging from several hundred thousand to several million Daltons.

PEO is available as a fine powder and is distinguished by its rapid hydration, ability to form a dense hydrogel layer, and excellent bioadhesive properties. These characteristics make it a versatile pharmaceutical excipient widely used as a sustained-release matrix former, viscosity modifier, thickening agent, and stabilizer in liquid and topical dosage forms.

2. Polyethylene Oxide Material Information

• Material Name: Polyethylene oxide (PEO)
• Origin: China
• Material Category: Pharmaceutical Excipients.
• Main Functions: Sustained-Release Matrix Former, Thickening and Stabilizing Agent for Liquid and Topical Formulations, and Binder for Tablets and Capsules
• Physical Form: Free-flowing granular powder, white or slightly yellowish, odorless.
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water (forming a high-viscosity solution) and soluble in certain polar organic solvents; insoluble in ether and non-polar solvents.
• Quality Standards: Meets the standards of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP-NF), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur), and Chinese Pharmacopoeia (ChP).

The material is strictly controlled for:

• Molecular Weight and Viscosity: Precisely controlled across different grades, which directly dictates the drug release rate.
• Volatile Organic Impurities: Strict limits on residual solvents and free ethylene oxide content to ensure maximum safety.

3. Key advantages of Polyethylene Oxide

• Controlled Drug Release:Thanks to its rapid hydration and ability to form a robust hydrogel barrier, PEO enables the gradual and consistent release of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) through diffusion across the hydrated gel layer, providing effective sustained-release performance.
• Stable Gel Formation with Minimal pH Dependence: PEO forms a strong, stable hydrogel matrix that maintains its performance over a wide physiological pH range, ensuring consistent drug release.
• Excellent Mucoadhesive Properties:PEO adheres effectively to the gastrointestinal mucosa, prolonging the residence time of the dosage form at the absorption site and potentially enhancing drug bioavailability.
• Suitable for Direct Compression:PEO exhibits good flowability and excellent compressibility, making it well-suited for direct compression without the need for complex granulation. This is particularly advantageous for moisture- and heat-sensitive APIs.
• Cost-Effective, High-Quality Supply: Manufactured in China, PEO offers a competitive supply that complies with major international pharmacopeial standards, enabling pharmaceutical manufacturers to optimize production costs without compromising quality.

4. Applications of Polyethylene Oxide

In Pharmaceuticals:

• Modified-Release Tablets: Used as a hydrophilic matrix former for both water-soluble and poorly water-soluble APIs, typically at concentrations of 10–30% (w/w).
• Ophthalmic, Nasal, and Liquid Formulations: Functions as a viscosity modifier, thickening agent, and stabilizer.
• Topical Formulations: Serves as a gelling agent and viscosity enhancer, prolonging drug residence time on the skin and mucosal surfaces while reducing runoff.
• Film-Based Dosage Forms: Used in the formulation of buccal films, oral dissolving films (ODFs), and medicated oral films (oral strips).

In Health Supplements and Cosmetics:

• Used as a thickening agent, film-forming agent, and rheology modifier in specialized formulations requiring high viscosity and excellent biocompatibility.

5. Commercial Products Using Polyethylene Oxide

6. Product Contact Information

For more information regarding the supply chain, Technical Data Sheets (TDS) for various Polyethylene Oxide molecular weight grades, or to place an order, please contact us:

• Consultation Hotline: +84 (0) 834 560 500
• Email: director@biorichgroup.com
• Website:www.biorichgroup.com
• Sample/COA Request: Please contact us via email to request testing samples and the latest Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the material from the manufacturer.