Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) E15 is a common material used as a tablet adhesive in the pharmaceutical industry. It is a white or off-white powder that is odorless and tasteless, with a high degree of purity. HPMC E15 is a water-soluble cellulose ether that is commonly used as a film-forming agent, thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in a variety of applications.
HPMC E15 is widely used as a tablet adhesive because it has excellent adhesive properties, is compatible with a wide range of other excipients, and has a low toxicity. It is also non-ionic, which means it does not ionize in water and is therefore less likely to interact with other ingredients.
The adhesive properties of HPMC E15 are due to its ability to form a strong film when it comes into contact with water. This film is able to bond the different layers of a tablet together, creating a solid and uniform tablet that is resistant to breakage and chipping.
In addition to its adhesive properties, HPMC E15 is also used as a tablet disintegrant. This means that it helps the tablet to break down and dissolve in the stomach, allowing the active ingredients to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
When used as a tablet adhesive, HPMC E15 is typically mixed with other excipients such as lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and corn starch. The exact formulation will depend on the specific requirements of the tablet, such as its size, shape, and the active ingredients it contains.
HPMC E15 is also used in other pharmaceutical applications such as in controlled release formulations, where it can be used to modify the release rate of the active ingredient. It is also used as a binder, stabilizer, and thickener in creams, ointments, and gels.
Overall, HPMC E15 is a versatile and useful material that is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry as a tablet adhesive. Its excellent adhesive properties, low toxicity, and compatibility with a wide range of excipients make it an ideal choice for creating solid and uniform tablets.