Poloxamer 188 is a non-ionic triblock copolymer composed of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) units.
It is widely used as a surfactant, emulsifier, solubilizer, and stabilizing agent in various pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial applications.
Known for its biocompatibility and low toxicity, Poloxamer 188 is particularly valuable in formulations requiring stabilization, dispersibility, or emulsification.
CAS Number: 9003-11-6
EC Number: 618-344-0
Molecular Formula: HO(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)aH (a and b are block-specific)
Molecular Weight: Approx. 7680–9510 g/mol
Synonyms: Poloxamer 188, Polyoxyethylene-Polyoxypropylene Copolymer, Pluronic F68, Lutrol F68, Polyethylene-Polypropylene Block Copolymer, PEG-PPG Block Copolymer, Non-Ionic Surfactant Poloxamer 188, Poloxamer 188 Emulsifier, Poloxamer 188 Stabilizer, Poloxamer 188 for Pharmaceuticals, Poloxamer 188 for Cosmetics, Poloxamer 188 Detergent, Biocompatible Poloxamer 188, Poloxamer 188 Solubilizer, Poloxamer 188 for Drug Delivery
APPLICATIONS
Poloxamer 188 is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations, including injectables, to stabilize and solubilize active ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability and stability of poorly soluble drugs.
Poloxamer 188 is included in oral and topical medications to enhance consistency and emulsification.
Poloxamer 188 is incorporated into skincare products, such as creams and lotions, to stabilize emulsions and improve texture.
Poloxamer 188 is used in hair care formulations, including shampoos and conditioners, to improve foam stability and spreadability.
Poloxamer 188 is applied in dental care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, for its solubilizing and dispersing properties.
Poloxamer 188 is utilized in wound care solutions for its biocompatibility and ability to enhance healing.
Poloxamer 188 is added to eye care products, such as artificial tears and eye drops, to improve comfort and lubrication.
Poloxamer 188 is found in veterinary formulations, including shampoos and topical treatments, for its mildness and stability.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in industrial applications, such as detergents and cleaners, for its surfactant and emulsifying properties.
Poloxamer 188 is used in the food industry as an emulsifier and stabilizer for various products.
Poloxamer 188 is incorporated into biomedical applications, including tissue engineering and cell culture media, for its compatibility with biological systems.
Poloxamer 188 is found in specialty formulations for sensitive skin due to its mild and non-irritating nature.
Poloxamer 188 is used in contact lens solutions to enhance cleaning and comfort.
Poloxamer 188 is included in cosmetic formulations, such as makeup removers, to solubilize and remove oils and residues.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in protein stabilization to maintain the activity and integrity of sensitive biomolecules.
Poloxamer 188 is used in laboratory research as a dispersant for nanoparticles and other particulates.
Poloxamer 188 is added to freeze-dried products to protect active ingredients during the freeze-drying process.
Poloxamer 188 is widely used as a surfactant and emulsifier in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly for injectable drugs, to stabilize the formulation and enhance drug delivery.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in topical gels and creams for its ability to improve the spreadability and stability of active ingredients on the skin.
Poloxamer 188 is used in drug delivery systems as a solubilizing agent to improve the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.
Poloxamer 188 is incorporated into ophthalmic formulations such as eye drops and gels to enhance drug solubility and maintain a stable drug delivery to the eye.
Poloxamer 188 is applied in the formulation of oral dosage forms, including suspensions, to improve the dispersion and stability of active ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is used in wound healing products to promote a moist healing environment and improve the absorption of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in the formulation of hydrogels for controlled release of drugs, particularly in wound care, to facilitate the sustained release of therapeutic agents.
Poloxamer 188 is included in cosmetic formulations, such as moisturizers and serums, to improve product texture and enhance skin penetration of active ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is used in emulsions and creams as a stabilizer to prevent phase separation and ensure uniform distribution of ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is applied in nasal drug delivery systems to enhance the solubility of active ingredients and facilitate the absorption of drugs through the nasal mucosa.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in formulations for intravenous administration, particularly for liposomal formulations, to enhance the stability and solubility of the encapsulated drug.
Poloxamer 188 is used in hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners to improve the texture, conditioning, and spreadability of the products.
Poloxamer 188 is used in anti-aging creams and serums to improve skin penetration and the efficacy of active ingredients such as peptides and vitamins.
Poloxamer 188 is included in drug formulations for cancer therapy, particularly in liposomal carriers, to facilitate the delivery of anticancer drugs to targeted areas.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in ocular drug delivery systems to enhance the bioavailability and stability of drugs used in treating eye conditions.
Poloxamer 188 is incorporated into dental products, such as toothpaste and mouthwashes, to improve texture and distribute active ingredients evenly.
Poloxamer 188 is used in vaccines and injectable biologics to stabilize protein formulations and maintain their efficacy during storage and transport.
Poloxamer 188 is applied in topical analgesic formulations to improve the delivery of pain-relieving agents through the skin.
Poloxamer 188 is used in dietary supplements to enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract.
Poloxamer 188 is employed in personal care products like body lotions and sunscreens to enhance the moisturization and spreadability of the products.
Poloxamer 188 is used in biopharmaceuticals to aid in the development of stable, effective drug delivery systems that are easy to administer and control.
Poloxamer 188 is used in anti-inflammatory formulations to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs and reduce local irritation.
Poloxamer 188 is applied in sterile formulations for injectable drugs, where it helps stabilize the drug in solution and improves the safety and efficacy of the injection.
Poloxamer 188 is used in veterinary medicines to improve the delivery of drugs and biologics in animals, particularly in injectable formulations.
Poloxamer 188 is used in food and beverage products to improve the texture, stability, and mouthfeel of emulsions and suspensions.
DESCRIPTION
Poloxamer 188 is a white to off-white, free-flowing powder or granules with a mild, characteristic odor.
This copolymer exhibits amphiphilic properties, making it effective as a surfactant and emulsifier in a wide range of applications.
Poloxamer 188 forms micelles in aqueous solutions, aiding in solubilization and stabilization of hydrophobic compounds.
Poloxamer 188 is highly biocompatible and non-toxic, making it suitable for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
This compound is thermally stable and exhibits reversible thermogelling properties, enabling its use in temperature-sensitive formulations.
Poloxamer 188 is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, aligning with sustainable formulation practices.
Poloxamer 188 is compatible with various active ingredients, including pharmaceuticals, proteins, and polymers.
This ingredient is pH stable, maintaining efficacy across a wide pH range (3–10).
Poloxamer 188 enhances the sensory properties of formulations, providing a smooth and non-greasy feel.
Poloxamer 188 is a non-ionic surfactant and triblock copolymer made up of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(propylene glycol) (PPG) blocks, commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.
Poloxamer 188 is known for its ability to form stable emulsions, making it useful in formulations requiring uniform dispersion of active ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is a versatile excipient, widely used in drug delivery systems due to its ability to enhance solubility and improve the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.
Poloxamer 188 has amphiphilic properties, meaning it has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, which allow it to interact with both water and lipids in the formulation.
Poloxamer 188 is often used in topical and injectable formulations to help improve the absorption of active ingredients into the skin or bloodstream.
Poloxamer 188 is a biocompatible and biodegradable compound, making it safe for use in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and medical products.
Poloxamer 188 is known for its ability to reduce surface tension, which aids in improving the uniformity and spreadability of formulations like creams, gels, and emulsions.
Poloxamer 188 is commonly used in oral, intravenous, and topical drug delivery systems to enhance the solubilization and stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Poloxamer 188 is a highly effective emulsifier that stabilizes emulsions, preventing phase separation and ensuring consistent product performance.
Poloxamer 188 is regarded as a safe ingredient in various formulations, widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products due to its gentle nature and low toxicity profile.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: HO(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)aH (block-specific copolymer)
Molecular Weight: Approx. 7680–9510 g/mol
Common Name: Poloxamer 188
Appearance: White to off-white powder or granules
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Density: Approx. 1.06 g/cm³ (bulk density)
Melting Point: Approx. 52–57°C
Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol; insoluble in oils
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable in a wide pH range (3–10)
Storage Temperature: Store at 15–30°C in a cool, dry place
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
If Poloxamer 188 dust is inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.
Ingestion:
If Poloxamer 188 is ingested, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.
Seek immediate medical attention if discomfort persists.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote.
Provide supportive care as needed.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing, when handling Poloxamer 188.
Avoid creating dust or aerosols during handling.
Ventilation:
Ensure proper ventilation to minimize exposure to airborne particles.
Use local exhaust systems if necessary.
Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release.
Use inert absorbent materials (e.g., sand, vermiculite) to collect spilled material.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture, heat, and incompatible materials.
Keep containers tightly closed and properly labeled.
Protect from contamination and direct sunlight.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid prolonged exposure to high humidity or temperatures to maintain product integrity.
Ensure containers are sealed properly to prevent contamination.