HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) is a widely used excipient in the pharmaceutical industry. It is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose, and is used in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations, including tablets, capsules, creams, ointments, and suspensions. HPMC is an ideal excipient for tablet formulations because it is non-toxic, non-irritating, and has excellent binding and film-forming properties.
HPMC is used in tablets for a variety of reasons. First, it is used as a binder to hold the tablet together. HPMC is a highly viscous material that can form a strong bond between the active ingredients and other excipients in the tablet. This helps to ensure that the tablet is stable and does not break apart during manufacturing or storage.
Second, HPMC is used as a disintegrant in tablets. When a tablet is taken orally, it must be able to break apart quickly in order to release the active ingredients. HPMC helps to facilitate this process by absorbing water and swelling, which causes the tablet to break apart. This ensures that the active ingredients are released quickly and efficiently.
Third, HPMC is used as a lubricant in tablets. Lubricants help to reduce friction between the tablet and the die wall during the compression process, which helps to prevent sticking and sticking. This helps to ensure that the tablets are of uniform size and shape.
Fourth, HPMC is used as a glidant in tablets. Glidants help to reduce the surface tension of the powder particles, which helps to ensure that the powder flows freely during the compression process. This helps to ensure that the tablets are of uniform size and shape.
Finally, HPMC is used as a coating agent in tablets. Coating agents help to protect the tablet from moisture and other environmental factors, which helps to ensure that the tablet remains stable during storage.
In summary, HPMC is a widely used excipient in the pharmaceutical industry, and is used in tablet formulations for a variety of reasons. It is used as a binder, disintegrant, lubricant, glidant, and coating agent, which helps to ensure that the tablets are of uniform size and shape, and remain stable during storage.