HPMC： Application as a thickener and excipient

HPMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether that has been widely used in various fields such as medicine, food, construction, and daily chemical due to its excellent physicochemical properties and broad application prospects. HPMC, as a thickener and excipient, plays a crucial role in formulation design. This article will explore its applications in these two areas.

As a thickener, the main characteristic of HPMC is its water solubility

When HPMC for tile mortar is dissolved in water, the molecular chains stretch in the solution and form a three-dimensional network structure, significantly increasing the viscosity of the solution. This thickening effect is closely related to the molecular weight, degree of substitution, and concentration of HPMC. HPMC with high molecular weight and high degree of substitution usually provides higher viscosity. By adjusting the dosage of HPMC, the viscosity of the formula can be flexibly controlled to meet different application requirements. For example, in water-based coatings, HPMC can improve the application performance of the coating, prevent pigment settling, and improve the leveling of the coating film. In the food industry, HPMC can be used to thicken products such as yogurt and jam, improve taste and stability.

In addition, the pseudoplasticity of HPMC for tile grout is also an important advantage of it as a thickener. Pseudo plasticity refers to the property that the viscosity of a solution decreases with increasing shear rate. In a static state, HPMC can endow the system with high viscosity and maintain its stability; When subjected to stirring or pressure, the viscosity will decrease, making it easier to operate and use. This characteristic gives HPMC a unique advantage in applications that require fluidity, such as spray coatings, extruded foods, etc.

On the other hand, HPMC for groove is widely used as an excipient in the pharmaceutical field, mainly due to its excellent film-forming, adhesive, and sustained-release properties. As a film-forming agent, HPMC for grout can be used to prepare film coatings, protect drugs from external environmental influences, control drug release rates, and improve drug stability. HPMC film has good toughness and plasticity, which can effectively cover the surface of drugs, prevent drug deliquescence, oxidation, or reaction with other excipients.

As an adhesive, grout HPMC can enhance the bonding strength of powders or particles, improve the hardness and uniformity of compression molding. This is crucial for the production of tablets, ensuring their integrity during transportation and consumption. HPMC can also improve the dispersibility and wettability of powders, enhance the flowability of particles, thereby improving the efficiency and quality of tablet pressing.

The sustained release property of HPMC is another important aspect of its application in the pharmaceutical field

By controlling the content and molecular weight of HPMC for wall plastering, the rate of drug release from the formulation can be adjusted. HPMC will form a gel layer after swelling in water, and drugs will slowly diffuse and release through the gel layer. This sustained-release mechanism can prolong the duration of drug action, reduce the frequency of administration, and improve patient compliance.

In summary, HPMC plays an important role in the application of thickeners and excipients due to its excellent thickening, film-forming, adhesive, and sustained-release properties. With the continuous advancement of technology, the application fields of HPMC will continue to expand, and its role in various industries will become increasingly prominent. Future research will focus more on HPMC modification to further enhance its performance and meet the growing market demand.

HPMC  FAQs

What is the main role of HPMC in pharmaceuticals?

HPMC is commonly used as a thickener, adhesive, and film-forming agent in pharmaceuticals. It can regulate the viscosity of liquid formulations and improve suspension stability; As an excipient in tablets, it enhances particle binding force and promotes tablet formation. In addition, it can also be used as a skeleton material for sustained-release formulations to control the drug release rate.

What are the advantages of HPMC as a thickener?

HPMC has excellent thickening performance, high transparency of its aqueous solution, and flexible adjustment of viscosity with concentration and model. It is not affected by pH value, stable in acidic or alkaline environments, and has good compatibility with most components. In addition, HPMC is odorless and does not interfere with the efficacy of active ingredients in drugs.

What is the solubility of HPMC? What should be noted when using?

HPMC is easily dispersed and swells in cold water to form colloidal solutions, but has poor solubility in hot water. Suggest dispersing the powder in hot water below 80 ℃, stirring and cooling until completely dissolved. If cold water is added directly, it may clump. Organic solvents such as ethanol can partially dissolve HPMC, but usually it is mainly in aqueous solution.

How safe is HPMC? Are there any usage restrictions?

HPMC is a recognized safe pharmaceutical excipient (GRAS), non-toxic when taken orally, not absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, and non irritating. Under standard dosage, there are no side effects, but it must comply with pharmacopoeial standards (such as USP/EP). In rare cases, it may cause allergic reactions, and appropriate specifications should be selected according to the formulation requirements.

How to choose the viscosity of HPMC? What are the differences between different models?

HPMC is graded according to viscosity (such as E5, E15, K4M, etc.), and low viscosity (550 cps) is applicable to solution or spray; Medium high viscosity (1004000 cps) for tablet bonding or gel matrix; Ultra high viscosity (10000 level CPS) is commonly used in sustained-release formulations. When selecting, the flowability, viscosity, and release requirements of the formulation should be considered.