Focus on Cellulose ethers

Hypromellose mechanism of action

Hypromellose is a hydrophilic, non-ionic polymer that is used in a variety of pharmaceutical and medical applications, including as a lubricant and viscosity agent in eye drops, as a coating agent in tablets and capsules, and as a sustained-release agent in drug delivery systems. The mechanism of action of hypromellose is related to its unique physicochemical properties, including its high water-holding capacity and its ability to form gels in the presence of water.

  1. Lubrication: In the case of hypromellose eye drops, the primary mechanism of action is lubrication. When applied to the surface of the eye, hypromellose forms a thin film that helps to reduce friction between the eyelid and the cornea, thereby reducing dryness, redness, and irritation. This lubricating effect is due to the high water-holding capacity of hypromellose, which allows it to absorb and retain moisture from the tear film, and its ability to spread evenly over the surface of the eye.
  2. Viscosity: Hypromellose can also increase the viscosity of solutions, which can improve their retention on the ocular surface and increase their contact time with the eye. This effect is particularly important in the case of eye drops, as it can help to increase the therapeutic efficacy of the medication.
  3. Coating: Hypromellose is commonly used as a coating agent in tablets and capsules. In this application, it forms a protective layer around the medication that can help to control the rate of drug release and protect the drug from degradation in the stomach or intestines. The mechanism of action of hypromellose in this context is related to its ability to form a barrier between the drug and the surrounding environment, which can help to improve the stability and bioavailability of the medication.
  4. Sustained Release: Hypromellose can also be used as a sustained-release agent in drug delivery systems. In this application, it is used to form a gel-like matrix that can control the release of the drug over an extended period of time. The mechanism of action of hypromellose in this context is related to its ability to form a network of hydrogen bonds that can trap the drug molecules and control their release.

\the mechanism of action of hypromellose is related to its unique physicochemical properties, which include its high water-holding capacity, its ability to form gels in the presence of water, and its ability to increase the viscosity of solutions. These properties make it a versatile and widely used polymer in the pharmaceutical and medical industries, particularly in the development of eye drops, tablets, capsules, and drug delivery systems.

 


Post time: Mar-04-2023
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