hydroxypropyl methylcellulose

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Actions: 

HPMC acts as a lubricant and helps retain moisture on the ocular surface. When used in ophthalmic solutions such as artificial tears, HPMC forms a thin, protective film on the eye’s surface, providing lubrication and relieving dryness and discomfort.  

Spectrum: 

HPMC in ophthalmic solutions helps reduce eye irritation and discomfort by soothing the ocular surface. It can help relieve symptoms associated with dry eyes, environmental factors, and contact lens wear. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Adverse reactions 

None reported 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Hypersensitivity 
• Allergy 

Cautions: 

• Contact lenses 
• Pre-existing eye conditions 
• Eye irritation 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the secretion of the drug during pregnancy. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show fetal risks in the first or later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data for the drug under this category is available. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

The pharmacology of HPMC in ophthalmic solutions primarily focuses on its physical properties, including viscosity, mucoadhesion, and tear film stability. These properties improve ocular lubrication, dryness relief, enhanced drug delivery, and patient comfort.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

HPMC contributes to the stability of the tear film on the ocular surface. Enhancing the viscosity of the tear film improves breakup time and reduces tear film instability. This helps to maintain a stable tear film and prevent dry spots on the ocular surface. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When applied topically as an ophthalmic solution, HPMC has limited systemic absorption. It primarily acts locally on the ocular surface without significant entry into the bloodstream. Only a tiny fraction of HPMC may be absorbed systemically, but it is generally negligible.  

Distribution 

HPMC remains primarily localized to the ocular surface and does not distribute extensively to other tissues or organs. Its effects are mainly confined to the site of application.  

Metabolism 

HPMC is a biologically inert and water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose. It is not metabolized in the body and retains its chemical structure when applied topically as an ophthalmic solution.  

Elimination and Excretion 

HPMC is eliminated mainly through local clearance from the ocular surface. It may be washed away by tears or cleared by blinking. Any small amount of HPMC that may be systemically absorbed is likely eliminated through normal renal excretion. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the solution. 

Gently clean the area around your eyes. 

Hold the container or bottle close to your eye without touching it. 

Instill one to two drops of the HPMC solution into the conjunctival sac formed by the lower eyelid. 

Close your eye gently for a short period to allow the solution to spread evenly. 

If excess solution spills, wipe it away with a clean tissue. 

Securely close the container or bottle after use. 

Follow the prescribed dosage and frequency as instructed by the healthcare professional or indicated on the product label. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name:  hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 

Why do we use hydroxypropyl methylcellulose? 

HPMC acts as a lubricant for the eyes, providing moisture and reducing dryness. It helps to relieve dry eye symptoms by mimicking the natural tear film and improving the smoothness of the ocular surface. It helps stabilize the tear film on the ocular surface. Enhancing the viscosity of the tears aids in reducing tear evaporation and maintaining a stable tear film. This can help alleviate symptoms such as burning, itching, and irritation. 

HPMC is commonly used in artificial tears, supplementing natural tears and temporarily relieving dryness and discomfort. These artificial tear solutions containing HPMC mimic natural tears’ lubricating and protective properties.