Product Details
Category
Adsorbents; Anti-adhesives; Binders or diluents
Molecular Formula
(C6H10O5)n n n≈220
Grade
Pharmceutical Excipients
Description
Microcrystalline cellulose is a purified, partially depolymerized cellulose that occurs as a white, odorless, tasteless, crystalline powder composed of porous particles. It is commercially available in different particle sizes and moisture grades that have different properties and applications.
Synonyms
Avicel PH; Celex; cellulose-gel; Celphere; Ceolus-KG; crystalline-cellulose; E460; Emcocel; Ethispheres; Fibrocel; Pharmacel; Tabulose; Vivapur
Administration route
Intra-articular injection, intramuscular injection, intravenous injection, intravitreal implant, nasal spray, or oral administration.
Dosage Form
Inhalation; Oral Capsule; Granules; Suspension; Syrup; Tablet; Topical and Vaginal
Stability and Storage Conditions
This product is a hygroscopic, but stable substance. Large quantities of storage must be placed in airtight containers in a cool and dry environment.
Source and Preparation
Microcrystalline cellulose can be obtained by controlled hydrolysis of α-cellulose with dilute mineral acid solution, and α-cellulose can be obtained from fiber pulp of cellulose-containing plants. After hydrolysis, the hydrolyzed cellulose is filtered and purified, and the water slurry is spray-dried to form dry porous particles with a wide particle size distribution.
Applications
Adsorbent; suspending agent; diluent for tablets and capsules; disintegrant for tablets. Microcrystalline cellulose is widely used in pharmaceutical preparations, mainly as a binder or diluent in oral tablets and capsules, not only for wet granulation but also for direct compression. In addition to being used as a binder or diluent, microcrystalline cellulose also has certain lubricating and disintegrating properties, so it is very useful in the preparation of tablets. Microcrystalline cellulose can also be used in cosmetics and food.
Safety
This product is widely used in oral pharmaceutical preparations and food, and is a relatively non-toxic and non-irritating substance. This product is not absorbed after oral administration and has almost no potential toxicity. A large amount of use may cause mild diarrhea, and it is not difficult to use as a pharmaceutical excipient. Abuse of certain tablets containing cellulose, such as inhalation or injection administration, can lead to fibrous granulomas.
Incompatibilities
This product is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.