Common animal-derived excipients found in medications
| Ingredient | Source | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Gelatin | From the skin and bone of cattle and pigs | Capsules of medication and tablets, modified release preparations of some medications may be used to thicken liquids or as a coating agent for drug powder |
| Shellac | Resin secreted from the female lac bug | Binding powders/medications |
| Cochineal/carmine | Dye made from crushed insects | Colouring of capsules |
| Lactose | From milk: may be acceptable to vegetarians but not to vegans | Diluent for tablets/medications |
| Lanolin | From sheepskin/wool | Used as a lubricant, for producing cholecalciferol, in some lip/skin products |
| Magnesium stearate | May be derived from plants or bovine tallow | Used in production of some tablets / powders to aid delivery |