Definition: Inactive ingredients are substances in medication that are not intended to treat symptoms or a health condition. These substances may include colors, flavors, preservatives, and materials that bind the pill together.
It is important that you be aware of inactive ingredients because they can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Examples: Lipitor, a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of high cholesterol, contains the following ingredients:
Active Ingredient: atorvastatin
Inactive Ingredients:
- calcium carbonate
- candelilla wax
- croscarmellose sodium
- hydroxypropyl cellulose
- lactose monohydrate
- magnesium stearate
- microcrystalline cellulose
- Opadry White YS-1-7040 (hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide)
- polysorbate 80
- simethicone emulsion
