Ingredients and excipients in medicines - Halalmed

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Ingredients and excipients in medicines

Click on a tile to find out more about the ingredients and excipients commonly used in medicines which may raise concerns for the Muslim community.
Further clarification is often needed about the source and processing before confirming their halal status.

CARMINE

CHINESE HAMSTER OVARY CELLS

COLLAGEN

CONJUGATED OESTROGEN

ETHANOL

GELATIN

INSULIN

LACTOSE and RENNET

LANOLIN

MAGNESIUM STEARATE

SHELLAC

STEARIC ACID

Other SYNTHETIC ALCOHOLS used in medicines

.

Other
COMMON EXCIPIENTS in medicines

⚠️Remember

Even if a medicine contains a doubtful or problematic ingredient/excipient, it does not always mean it is prohibited or impermissible to take.

Disclaimer: The information provided by HalalMed is for educational purposes only. While we are healthcare professionals, we are not providing clinical or medical advice. For specific medical conditions or treatment options, please consult your own healthcare provider.

Further resources

How to find out if a medicine contains haram ingredients/excipients
Email template – to pharmaceutical companies
How we classify medicines based on ingredients and excipients
Reason codes: putting the classifications into practice – our classification codes for ingredients and/or excipients
What to do if a medicine contains haram ingredients/ excipients
Supporting Muslim patients in consultations – a guide for healthcare professionals
External resources for healthcare professionals

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