Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose: Physicochemical properties and ocular drug delivery formulations

Author(s)

Tundisi, L. L. ^[1] ; Mostaco, G. B. ^[2] ; Carricondo, P. C. ^[2] ; Petri, D. F. S. ^[3]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Campinas Unicamp, Fac Pharmaceut Sci, Campinas, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Ophthalmol Dept, Fac Med, Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Chem, Fundamental Chem Dept, Av Prof Lineu Prestes 748, BR-05508000 Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences; v. 159, APR 1 2021.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a cellulose ether widely used in drug formulations due to its biocompatibility, uncharged nature, solubility in water and thermoplastic behavior. Particularly for ocular and ophthalmic formulations, HPMC is applied as viscosity enhancer agent in eye drops, gelling agent in injections, and polymeric matrix in films, filaments and inserts. The different therapeutic approaches are necessary due to the complex anatomic structure of the eye. The natural ocular barriers and the low drug permeation into the circulatory system make the drug administration challenging. This review presents the eye anatomy and the usual local routes of drugs administration, which are facilitated by the physicochemical properties of HPMC. The relationship between chemical structure and physicochemical properties of HPMC is displayed. The different types of formulations (local application) including HPMC for ocular drug delivery are discussed with basis on recent literature reports and patents. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/13492-2 - Synthetic and natural scaffolds applied to regenerative medicine
• Grantee: Luiz Henrique Catalani
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants