Glycerin (Glycerol) is a polyol (polyhydric alcohol) that functions
as a humectant, crystallization modifier, and plasticizer. it is a bit-
tersweet liquid which has a high solubility of 71 g/100 g of water at
25°c. it is 75% as sweet as sugar. it is a fair oil solvent and has a
medium to high hygroscopicity. it is used to maintain a certain
moisture content to prevent the drying-out of foods; at 10–15% in
raisins, it keeps them from drying out and prevents their moisture
from migrating into cereal. it is used in confections to maintain the
initial level of crystallization of the soft sugar. in reduced-fat frozen
desserts, it helps prevent ice crystal formation. it also functions as a
flavor solvent. applications include marshmallows, candy, and
baked goods.
Biological Functions
The primary use of anhydrous glycerin (Ophthalgan)
is as an osmotic agent that is applied topically to reduce
corneal edema. Orally administered glycerin (Glycerol,
Osmoglyn) is used to reduce intraocular pressure and
vitreous volume before ocular surgery.
Veterinary Drugs and Treatments
Oral glycerin is used primarily for the short-term reduction of IOP
in small animals
with acute glaucoma. It may also be considered for
use to reduce increased CSF pressure.
The IOP-lowering effect of glycerin may be more variable than
with mannitol, but since it may be given orally, it may be more advantageous
to use in certain cases.
