Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a versatile polymer that is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its unique properties. The following are its main applications:
🌟 Applications of HPMC in Pharmaceuticals
Tablet coating:
Acts as a film former to improve tablet aesthetics, stability and taste masking.
Provides controlled release or enteric coating functionality.
Controlled drug release:
Used in hydrophilic matrix systems for sustained or controlled drug release.
Regulates drug dissolution by forming a gel layer in an aqueous environment.
Capsule formulation:
Serves as a base material for plant-based capsules (a vegetarian-friendly alternative to gelatin).
Highly compatible with a variety of active ingredients.
Thickeners and binders:
Increases the viscosity of liquid formulations.
Used as a binder in tablets to ensure proper adhesion of particles.
Stabilizer:
Stabilizes suspensions and emulsions in liquid drug formulations.
Biodadhesive:
Provides mucoadhesive properties in topical formulations such as gels and ointments.
Emulsifiers and solubilizers:
Improves the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.
Ophthalmic applications:
Used as a lubricant in artificial tears and eye drops to relieve dry eye syndrome.
Why HPMC?
✔️ Biocompatible and non-toxic
✔️ Chemically stable
✔️ Soluble in water and a variety of solvents
✔️ Suitable for a variety of dosage forms
