See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Povidone
What is povidone K17 (and what is it used for)?
Povidone K17 is a grade of povidone (also called polyvinylpyrrolidone, or PVP). It’s an excipient used in medicines and other products to help with formulation—most commonly as a binder, film former, thickener, or solubilizer depending on the final dosage form.
What does “K17” mean for povidone?
The “K” number (K17) refers to the viscosity grade of povidone, which correlates with average molecular weight. Higher “K” values generally correspond to higher molecular weight and different handling/performance in formulations.
How is povidone K17 different from other povidone grades (like K30 or K90)?
Different povidone grades behave differently in manufacturing and in the final product because they vary in molecular weight/viscosity. That can affect things like:
- how the powder dissolves/disperses
- film formation and binding strength
- processing characteristics during tablet compression or coating
- how easily the material mixes into a formula
Is povidone K17 the same as “PVP K17” or “polyvinylpyrrolidone K17”?
Yes—typically these are naming variations for the same material: povidone (PVP) at the K17 viscosity grade. In supply documentation you may see different spellings or shorthand, but they usually refer to the viscosity grade.
Where might patients or consumers encounter povidone K17?
Because it is used as a formulation helper, it can appear in tablets, capsules, powders, topical products, and sometimes ophthalmic or oral formulations. The exact use depends on the product and the manufacturer’s formulation choice.
Do you mean a specific drug product that contains povidone K17?
If you tell me the product name (or share the label/ingredient list), I can help identify what the excipient is doing in that specific formulation and what grade is typically used.
Sources
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