Tolbutamide (INN)
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Tolbutamide (inn) is a cosmetic ingredient. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.
Tolbutamide is a first-generation sulfonylurea antidiabetic pharmaceutical that lowers blood glucose by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells (insulin secretagogue). EU CLP classification includes H302 (harmful if swallowed), H317 (sensitization), H361 (suspected reproductive toxicity), and H370 (organ toxicity). The EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III restricts tolbutamide at ≥0.1% in cosmetic products. Its hypoglycemic pharmacological activity is entirely inappropriate for cosmetic application.
Known concerns
- Hypoglycemic pharmacological activity
- Insulin secretagogue mechanism
- Reproductive toxicity H361
- Skin sensitization H317
- Systemic effects from skin absorption
- Restricted to ≤0.1% in EU cosmetics
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.