Oleic Acid

Category

Emulsifying Agents; Skin Penetrant

Molecular Formula

C18H34O2

Molecular Weight

282.47

Grade

Pharmceutical Excipients

Description

A yellowish to pale brown, oily liquid with a characteristic lard-like odor and taste. Oleic acid consists chiefly of (Z)-9-octadecenoic acid together with varying amounts of saturated and other unsaturated acids. It may contain a suitable antioxidant.

UNII

2UMI9U37CP

Chemical Name

(Z)-9-Octadecenoic acid

CAS Number

112-80-1

Administration route

Inhalation and nasal aerosols, topical and transdermal

Dosage Form

Inhalation and nasal aerosols, tablets, topical and transdermal preparations

Stability and Storage Conditions

On exposure to air, oleic acid gradually absorbs oxygen, darkens in color, and develops a more pronounced odor. At atmospheric pressure, it decomposes when heated at 80-100℃. Oleic acid should be stored in a well-filled, well-closed container, protected from light, in a cool, dry place.

Source and Preparation

Oleic acid is obtained by the hydrolysis of various animal and vegetable fats or oils, such as olive oil, followed by separation of the liquid acids. It consists chiefly of (Z)-9-octadecenoic acid. Oleic acid that is to be used systemically should be prepared from edible sources.

Applications

Oleic acid is used as an emulsifying agent in foods and topical pharmaceutical formulations. It has also been used as a penetration enhancer in transdermal formulations, to improve the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs in tablet formulations, and as part of a vehicle in soft gelatin capsules, in topical microemulsion formulations, in oral self-emulsifying drug delivery systems, in oral mucoadhesive patches, and in a metered dose inhaler.Oleic acid was shown to be an important factor in the hypoglycemic effect produced by multiple emulsions containing insulin intended for intestinal delivery of insulin.The phase behavior of sonicated dispersions of oleic acid has been described, and mechanisms for the topical penetration enhancing actions of oleic acid have been presented. Oleic acid has been reported to act as an ileal ‘brake’ that slows down the transit of luminal contents through the distal portion of the small bowel. Oleic acid labeled with 131I and 3.H is used in medical imaging.

Safety

Oleic acid is obtained by the hydrolysis of various animal and vegetable fats or oils, such as olive oil, followed by separation of the liquid acids. It consists chiefly of (Z)-9-octadecenoic acid. Oleic acid that is to be used systemically should be prepared from edible sources.

Incompatibilities

Incompatible with aluminum, calcium, heavy metals, iodine solutions, perchloric acid, and oxidizing agents. Oleic acid reacts with alkalis to form soaps.