Pharmacopeial specification table for Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
| Test | JP 2001 | PhEur 2005 | USP 28 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification | ✔✔✔ | ✔ | ✔✔✔ |
| pH | 5.0–8.5 | 5.5–8.5 | — |
| Loss on Drying | ≤5.0% | ≤10.0% | ≤5.0% |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤1.5% | ≤1.5% | ≤2.0% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤10 ppm | ≤20 ppm | ≤0.001% |
| Degree of Substitution (DS) | 1.8–2.5 | — | 1.8–2.5 |
Applications in Pharmaceutical Formulation
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a water-soluble polymer primarily used as a thickening agent in ophthalmic and topical formulations. It also functions as a binder and film-coating agent in tablets and is found in lubricants for dry eye, contact lens care, and dry mouth. Its concentration in formulations varies based on solvent and molecular weight. Additionally, it is widely used in cosmetics.
Comments
Hydroxyethyl cellulose has limited use in foodstuffs compared to its extensive application as an excipient in oral pharmaceutical formulations.
