Povidone K90
Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 18, 2020.
What is it?
Povidone (polyvinylpyrrolidone, PVP) is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a synthetic polymer vehicle for dispersing and suspending drugs. It has multiple uses, including as a binder for tablets and capsules, a film former for ophthalmic solutions, to aid in flavoring liquids and chewable tablets, and as an adhesive for transdermal systems.[1]
Povidone has the molecular formula of (C6H9NO)n and appears as a white to slightly off-white powder. Povidone formulations are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to their ability to dissolve in both water and oil solvents. The k number refers to the mean molecular weight of the povidone. Povidones with higher K-values (i.e., k90) are not usually given by injection due to their high molecular weights. The higher molecular weights prevent excretion by the kidneys and lead to accumulation in the body. The best-known example of povidone formulations is povidone-iodine, an important disinfectant.[2]
Top Medications with this excipient
- Aurovela Fe 1.5/30 ethinyl estradiol 30 mcg / norethindrone acetate 1.5 mg
- Clozapine 100 mg
- EC-Naprosyn 500 mg
- Guaifenesin Extended Release 1200 mg
- Ibuprofen 800 mg
- Ibuprofen 400 mg
- Ibuprofen 600 mg
- Levetiracetam Extended Release 750 mg
- Metformin Hydrochloride 1000 mg
- Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg
- Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg
- Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg
- Metformin Hydrochloride and Pioglitazone Hydrochloride 500 mg / 15 mg
- Methocarbamol 500 mg
- Methocarbamol 750 mg
- Naproxen 250 mg
- Naproxen Sodium and Sumatriptan Succinate 500 mg / 85 mg
- Penicillin V Potassium 500 mg
- Valacyclovir Hydrochloride 1 gram
- Valacyclovir Hydrochloride 500 mg
References
[1] Dave RH. Overview of pharmaceutical excipients used in tablets and capsules. Drug Topics (online). Advanstar. 10/24/2008 http://drugtopics.modernmedicine.com/drugtopics/Top+News/Overview-of-pharmaceutical-excipients-used-in-tabl/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/561047. Accessed 08/19/2011
[2] Folttman H, Quadir A. Excipent Update. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) - one of the mosy widely used excipients in pharmaceuricals: an overview. Drug Delivery Technology. Vol 8;6:22-7. Accessed April 9, 2012. http://www.pharma-ingredients.basf.com/Documents/ENP/Review%20Articles/DDT-June-2008.pdf
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.