Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol is a synthetic organic compound commonly used as a solvent, vehicle, and humectant in pharmaceutical formulations, food products, and cosmetic preparations. While not prescribed as a standalone medication, it plays a critical role in solubilizing drugs, enhancing stability, and maintaining moisture in various products. It is primarily utilized in IV medications, oral solutions, topical preparations, and as a food additive (E1520).
Propylene Glycol is a pharmaceutical-grade solvent and vehicle used in various medications, foods, and cosmetic products rather than as a medication itself.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- unclassified
- RxNorm
- 8928
- Generic
- Propylene Glycol
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Soothe Lubricant Eye Drops
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- N
- Lactation
- safe
- Half-life (h)
- 4
- Onset (min)
- 5
- Duration (h)
- 6
- Routes
- ophthalmic, nasal, oral
- Forms
- ophthalmic solution, nasal spray, oral solution, gel
- Regions
- United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia
- Monitoring
- none
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used as a pharmaceutical excipient to dissolve or carry active drug ingredients in IV formulations, oral solutions, topical preparations, and food products. Also employed in antifreeze and as a food preservative.
Functions primarily as a solvent to dissolve drugs that are not water-soluble, a humectant to retain moisture, and a stabilizer to maintain product integrity and shelf life.
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for food and pharmaceutical use. However, it can cause adverse effects in sensitive individuals, particularly when used in high concentrations or in products for neonates. Avoid use in individuals with known propylene glycol sensitivity. Should be used under pharmaceutical formulation guidance rather than as a standalone therapeutic agent.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy