The use of hypromellose in oral drug delivery

Hypromellose, also known as Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), is commonly used in oral drug delivery systems due to its versatile properties. Here are some key ways in which hypromellose is utilized in oral drug delivery:

1. Tablet Formulation:
   • Binder: Hypromellose is used as a binder in tablet formulations. It helps hold the tablet ingredients together, providing cohesiveness and integrity to the tablet.
   • Disintegrant: In some cases, hypromellose can act as a disintegrant, promoting the breakup of the tablet into smaller particles for better dissolution in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Controlled-Release Formulations:
   • Hypromellose is frequently employed in the formulation of controlled-release dosage forms. It can contribute to the sustained or controlled release of the drug over an extended period, providing a prolonged therapeutic effect.
3. Coating Agent:
   • Film Coating: Hypromellose is used as a film-forming material in the coating of tablets. Film coatings enhance the appearance, stability, and swallowability of tablets while also providing taste-masking and controlled-release properties.
4. Capsule Formulation:
   • Hypromellose can be used as a capsule shell material in the production of vegetarian or vegan capsules. It provides an alternative to traditional gelatin capsules.
5. Oral Liquids and Suspensions:
   • In the formulation of oral liquids and suspensions, hypromellose can be used as a thickening agent to improve the viscosity and palatability of the formulation.
6. Granulation and Pelletization:
   • Hypromellose is utilized in the granulation process to improve the flow properties of drug powders, facilitating the manufacturing of granules or pellets.
7. Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery:
   • Due to its mucoadhesive properties, hypromellose is explored for use in mucoadhesive drug delivery systems. Mucoadhesive formulations can enhance the residence time of the drug at the absorption site.
8. Solubility Enhancement:
   • Hypromellose can contribute to the solubility enhancement of poorly water-soluble drugs, leading to improved bioavailability.
9. Compatibility with Active Ingredients:
   • Hypromellose is generally compatible with a wide range of active pharmaceutical ingredients, making it a versatile excipient in various drug formulations.
10. Hydration Properties:
    • The hydration properties of hypromellose are important in its role as a matrix former in controlled-release formulations. The rate of hydration and gel formation influences drug release kinetics.

It’s important to note that the specific grade and viscosity of hypromellose, as well as its concentration in formulations, can be tailored to achieve the desired drug delivery characteristics. The use of hypromellose in oral drug delivery systems is well-established, and it is considered a key excipient in pharmaceutical formulations.