FPGEE for National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Practice Exam

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Which of the following is a disintegrating agent?

Croscarmellose
Acacia
Petrolatum
Methylcellulose

The correct answer is: Croscarmellose

A disintegrating agent is a substance that facilitates the breakdown of a tablet into smaller particles, allowing for easier dissolution and absorption of the active ingredients. Croscarmellose is a modified cellulose that acts effectively as a disintegrant. It swells upon contact with water, which promotes the breaking apart of the tablet structure, thereby enhancing the release of the drug. In this context, the other options do not function as disintegrating agents. Acacia is primarily used as a binder or emulsifier rather than contributing to the disintegration of tablets. Petrolatum serves as an occlusive agent and is used in ointments and not in the disintegration process. Methylcellulose can act as a binder and thickener but does not have the specific properties required for disintegration in a solid dosage form. Therefore, croscarmellose stands out as the correct choice due to its specific function in promoting disintegration in pharmaceuticals.