What excipient is commonly found in chewable tablets?

• A. Sorbitol
• B. Lactose
• C. Microcrystalline cellulose
• D. Mannitol

Answer: (D)

Chewable tablets rely on excipients that provide sweetness and a pleasant mouthfeel, since the dosage form is designed to be chewed rather than swallowed with water. Mannitol fits this role well: it is a sugar alcohol that delivers non-cariogenic sweetness and a cool, smooth mouthfeel. It also doubles as a diluent and compresses well, helping form a robust chewable tablet. Among alternatives, sorbitol is another sweetener used in chewables, but mannitol is favored for its better mouthfeel and lower hygroscopicity, which aids stability and handling. Lactose can serve as a filler in many tablets but is less ideal for chewables due to potential lactose intolerance issues and a lack of the distinctive mouthfeel mannitol provides. Microcrystalline cellulose mainly offers structure as a filler and binder and does not contribute significant sweetness or mouthfeel. Therefore, mannitol is commonly found in chewable tablets.