Sodium alginate is a polysaccharide that is derived from brown seaweed and is commonly used as a thickener, emulsifier, and gelling agent in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used as a excipient in the formulation of various dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquids. In the pharmaceutical industry, sodium alginate is used for its gelling properties to create extended-release formulations, or to control the release of active ingredients. It is also used as a binder in the tablet manufacturing process, and to improve the suspension properties of liquid formulations. Sodium alginate is considered to be non-toxic and has a favorable safety profile, making it an attractive ingredient for the pharmaceutical industry.