(hydroxypropyl methylcellulose uses in tablets)
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) serves as a multifunctional excipient in tablet manufacturing, addressing critical challenges in drug delivery. With a global market growth rate of 6.8% CAGR (2023-2030), its adoption spans immediate-release, sustained-release, and sublingual tablets. The polymer's unique thermal gelation properties enable precise control over drug dissolution rates, while its non-ionic nature ensures compatibility with 92% of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
HPMC outperforms traditional binders like gelatin and starch in three key aspects:
Manufacturer | Viscosity Range (mPa·s) | Particle Size (μm) | Tablet Hardness (N) | Price (USD/kg) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ashland | 5-100,000 | 45-180 | 120-150 | 28-35 |
Dow | 50-15,000 | 50-200 | 110-140 | 25-32 |
Shin-Etsu | 10-80,000 | 30-150 | 130-160 | 30-38 |
Advanced HPMC grades enable customized solutions:
A recent collaboration with a Top 10 pharma company achieved:
All HPMC grades meet stringent standards:
Emerging HPMC applications in tablets now include 3D-printed dosage forms (achieving 150 μm layer resolution) and combination products with 86% bioavailability enhancement. With 78% of formulation scientists prioritizing HPMC for new drug development (2023 industry survey), its role in tablet manufacturing continues to expand across multiple therapeutic areas.
(hydroxypropyl methylcellulose uses in tablets)
A: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is primarily used as a binder, disintegrant, and controlled-release agent in tablets. It improves tablet cohesion and ensures consistent drug dissolution. It also enhances stability and moisture resistance.
A: HPMC acts as a binder by forming a gel-like matrix when hydrated, binding powder particles during compression. This ensures tablet integrity without affecting bioavailability. It is ideal for both immediate and sustained-release formulations.
A: HPMC’s viscosity and gel-forming properties allow precise control over drug release rates. It creates a barrier that slows water penetration and active ingredient diffusion. This makes it reliable for time-dependent or pH-sensitive release.
A: Yes, HPMC is widely used in film coatings due to its solubility and smooth film-forming ability. It masks taste, protects tablets from moisture, and enables enteric or delayed-release coatings. It is compatible with other coating additives.
A: HPMC is non-toxic, biocompatible, and inert, making it safe for oral tablets. It complies with pharmacopeial standards (USP, EP) and is widely accepted globally. No known interactions with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) have been reported.