Indications
Silicon dioxide (silica) is an inactive ingredient, not a treatment by itself. It is widely used in tablets, capsules, powders, animal feed premixes, foods and cosmetics. In medicines it helps powders flow and prevents clumping; in veterinary premixes and powders it acts as a carrier and anti-caking agent so that the active nutrients mix evenly.
How It Works
Silicon dioxide is a very fine, dry powder with a large surface area. It soaks up small amounts of moisture and oil and coats other particles, which stops them sticking together. This keeps powders free-flowing, helps tablet machines fill evenly, and spreads active ingredients uniformly through a product.
Dosage and Administration
There is no separate dose. Silicon dioxide is present in small amounts within the finished product, and the dose to follow is the one given for that product on its label or by a doctor or veterinarian.
Interactions
At the small amounts used in medicines and feeds, silicon dioxide is not known to cause important interactions with other medicines.
Contraindications
- Rare known allergy or intolerance to a product containing it; in that case avoid the product and ask a doctor or pharmacist for an alternative.
Side Effects
When swallowed as part of a medicine, food or feed, silicon dioxide (the amorphous form used in products) is considered very safe and passes through the gut largely unabsorbed. Breathing in large amounts of the dry dust can irritate the nose, throat and lungs.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face or throat, a widespread rash or difficulty breathing after taking any product, or if you have persistent coughing or breathlessness after heavy dust exposure.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Silicon dioxide in the small amounts used in medicines and foods is not expected to cause harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Follow the advice for the active medicine in the product.
Precautions and Warnings
- When handling bulk powder, avoid creating dust and wear a dust mask if needed.
- Crystalline silica dust (from stone, sand or industry) is different and can damage the lungs with long-term exposure; the amorphous silica used in medicines is not the same material.
- Check the full product label for the active ingredients and their warnings.
Overdose
Swallowing more than usual is unlikely to be harmful. Any overdose risk comes from the active ingredients of the product, so follow the advice for that product and contact a doctor, veterinarian or poison centre if needed.
Therapeutic Class
Pharmaceutical excipient: glidant, anti-caking agent and carrier.
Storage
Store products containing it below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.