Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Hypromellose)

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is also commonly known by the brand name Hypromellose. Hypromellose is the non-proprietary name used to denote the same polymer in pharmaceutical and medical contexts. The use of the term “Hypromellose” is prevalent in the pharmaceutical industry and is essentially synonymous with HPMC.

Here are some key points regarding Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (Hypromellose):

1. Chemical Structure:
   • HPMC is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls.
   • It is produced by chemically modifying cellulose through the addition of hydroxypropyl and methyl groups.
2. Applications:
   • Pharmaceuticals: Hypromellose is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient. It is found in various oral dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and suspensions. Hypromellose serves as a binder, disintegrant, viscosity modifier, and film former.
   • Construction Industry: Used in products like tile adhesives, mortars, and gypsum-based materials. Enhances workability, water retention, and adhesion.
   • Food Industry: Functions as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food products, contributing to texture and stability.
   • Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Found in lotions, creams, and ointments for its thickening and stabilizing properties.
3. Physical Properties:
   • Typically a white to slightly off-white powder with a fibrous or granular texture.
   • Odorless and tasteless.
   • Soluble in water, forming a clear and colorless solution.
4. Degrees of Substitution:
   • Different grades of Hypromellose may have varying degrees of substitution, impacting properties like solubility and water retention.
5. Safety:
   • Generally considered safe for use in pharmaceuticals, food, and personal care products when used according to established guidelines.
   • Safety considerations may depend on factors such as the degree of substitution and the specific application.

It’s important to note that when discussing HPMC in the context of pharmaceuticals, the term “Hypromellose” is often used. The use of either term is acceptable, and they refer to the same polymer with hydroxypropyl and methyl substitutions on the cellulose backbone.