Abstract: A microcrystalline cellulose-based excipient having improved compressibility, whether utilized in direct compression, dry granulation or wet granulation formulations, is disclosed. The excipient is an agglomerate of microcrystalline cellulose particles and from about 0.1% to about 20% silicon dioxide particles, by weight of the microcrystalline cellulose, wherein the microcrystalline cellulose and silicon dioxide are in intimate association with each other. The silicon dioxide utilized in the novel excipient has a particle size from about 1 nanometer to about 100 microns. Most preferably, the silicon dioxide is a grade of colloidal silicon dioxide.

Abstract: A cosmetic composition used in the treatment of skin which contains 5 to 20 parts by weight of charcoal based on 100 parts by weight of the cosmetic composition.

Abstract: A controlled release formulation of lipoic acid is disclosed. The lipoic acid is combined with excipient materials in such a way that those materials protect the lipoic acid from chemical degradation in the gastrointestinal tract and provide for gradual release of the lipoic acid. These combined features make it possible to use lipoic acid to reduce serum glucose levels and maintain those levels over time thereby obtaining a range of desired results.