Magnesium stearate is often used as an anti-adherent  in the manufacture of medical tablets, capsules and powders.  In this regard, the substance is also useful because it has lubricating properties, preventing ingredients from sticking to manufacturing equipment during the compression of chemical powders into solid tablets; magnesium stearate is the most commonly used lubricant for tablets. Magnesium stearate can also be used efficiently in dry coating processes.

Magnesium stearate is also used to bind sugar in hard candies like mints, and is a common ingredient in baby formulas.^[9]