What is the typical dosage of PVP/VA 64 in formulations?

Hey there! As a supplier of PVP/VA 64, I often get asked about the typical dosage of this awesome copolymer in formulations. So, I thought I'd write this blog to share some insights and clear up any confusion.

What is PVP/VA 64?

First things first, let's quickly go over what PVP/VA 64 is. PVP/VA 64, also known as Copovidone VA 64, is part of the Copovidone VA Series. It's a copolymer made from N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) and vinyl acetate (VA) with a specific ratio, which gives it some really useful properties. Its CAS number is CAS 25086-89-9 or simply 25086-89-9.

This copolymer is soluble in water and a variety of organic solvents, which makes it super versatile. It's widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care industries. In pharma, it can act as a binder, film-former, and solubilizer. In cosmetics, it helps with hair styling, provides a smooth texture in lotions, and can improve the stability of products.

Factors Affecting Dosage

The dosage of PVP/VA 64 in formulations isn't a one-size-fits-all deal. There are several factors that come into play when determining how much of it to use:

1. Formulation Type

• Pharmaceutical Tablets: When used as a binder in tablets, the dosage can range from 2% to 10% by weight of the total formulation. A lower percentage might be used for tablets that are easy to compress and have good flow properties. For tablets with poor compressibility or those that need extra strength, a higher dosage towards the 10% mark might be required.
• Cosmetic Hair Sprays: In hair sprays, PVP/VA 64 can be present in concentrations from 2% to 8%. A lower dosage will give a light hold, while a higher dosage will provide a stronger, more long - lasting hold.
• Lotions and Creams: For lotions and creams, it's typically used in the range of 0.5% to 3%. It helps with the stability of the emulsion and gives a smooth, non - greasy feel to the product.

2. Desired Properties

• Viscosity: If you want to increase the viscosity of a formulation, you'll need to use a higher dosage of PVP/VA 64. For example, in a thickening gel, you might use 5% or more to achieve the desired consistency.
• Solubility Enhancement: When used to enhance the solubility of a poorly soluble drug or ingredient, the dosage will depend on how much of an improvement in solubility is needed. Sometimes, even a small amount like 1% can make a significant difference.

3. Compatibility with Other Ingredients

Some ingredients in a formulation can interact with PVP/VA 64. If there are ingredients that can cause precipitation or other unwanted reactions, you might need to adjust the dosage. For example, if you're using a strong acid or base in a formulation, you'll need to be careful with the amount of PVP/VA 64 to avoid any chemical reactions that could affect the stability of the product.

Typical Dosage Ranges in Different Industries

Pharmaceutical Industry

• Oral Solid Dosage Forms:
  • Tablets: As mentioned earlier, for immediate - release tablets, a common dosage is around 3% - 7%. It helps in holding the tablet together during the manufacturing process and also influences the disintegration and dissolution of the tablet in the body.
  • Capsules: When used in capsules, it can be used as a binder for the powder fill. A dosage of 2% - 5% is often sufficient to ensure proper flow and compression of the powder into the capsule.
• Topical Preparations: In topical creams and ointments, PVP/VA 64 can be used at a dosage of 1% - 5%. It helps in improving the spreadability of the product and can also enhance the penetration of active ingredients through the skin.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry

• Hair Products:
  • Hair Gels: In hair gels, it can be used at concentrations of 3% - 6% to provide a firm hold. It forms a flexible film on the hair, which keeps the hair in place without making it too stiff.
  • Shampoos and Conditioners: A small amount, usually around 0.2% - 1%, can be added to shampoos and conditioners. It helps in reducing static electricity and improving the manageability of the hair.
• Skin Care Products:
  • Moisturizers: In moisturizers, a dosage of 0.5% - 2% is common. It helps in maintaining the moisture balance of the skin and gives a smooth, silky feel to the product.
  • Makeup Products: In foundations and concealers, it can be used at a dosage of 0.5% - 3%. It helps in the adhesion of the product to the skin and provides a long - lasting finish.

Other Industries

• Adhesives: In some adhesive formulations, PVP/VA 64 can be used at dosages of 5% - 15%. It helps in improving the bonding strength and the flexibility of the adhesive.

Testing and Optimization

It's important to note that these are just typical dosage ranges, and you'll need to do some testing and optimization for your specific formulation. You can start with the recommended dosage ranges and then make small adjustments based on the results of your tests.

For example, if you're developing a new hair spray and the initial test with a 4% dosage of PVP/VA 64 gives a weaker hold than you'd like, you can increase the dosage to 6% and retest. You can also do stability tests over time to make sure that the product remains stable at the chosen dosage.

Why Choose Our PVP/VA 64?

As a supplier, we offer high - quality PVP/VA 64. Our product is produced under strict quality control measures, ensuring consistent quality and performance. We have a team of experts who can provide technical support and help you with the dosage selection for your specific formulation. Whether you're a small - scale manufacturer or a large - scale industrial producer, we can meet your needs.

If you're interested in learning more about our PVP/VA 64 or have questions about the dosage for your formulation, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to assist you in finding the right solution for your product development. Contact us for more information and let's start a great partnership!

References

• Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms: Tablets, Volume 1, Third Edition, edited by Herbert A. Lieberman, Leon Lachman, and Joseph B. Schwartz.
• Cosmetic Science and Technology, Fourth Edition, edited by P. D. Daniel and C. Fox.
• Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, Eighth Edition, edited by Raymond C. Rowe, Paul J. Sheskey, and Marian E. Quinn.