General Description
Synonyms: Avicel CL-611; Avicel RC-501; Avicel RC-581; Avicel RC-591; Avicel RC/CL; cellulosum microcristallinum et carmellosum natricum; colloidal cellulose; Vivapur MCG 591 PCG; Vivapur MCG 611 PCG.
Description: Microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium occurs as a white or off-white odorless and tasteless hygroscopic powder containing 5–22% sodium carboxymethylcellulose. It is a water-dispersible organic hydrocolloid.
Chemical Name:
Functions
Dispersing agent; emulsion stabilizer; stabilizing agent; suspending agent; thickening agent.
Uses
Microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium is used to produce thixotropic gels suitable as suspending vehicles in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.
The sodium carboxymethylcellulose aids dispersion and serves as a protective colloid.
Concentrations of less than 1% solids produce fluid dispersions, while concentrations of more than 1.2% solids produce thixotropic gels.
When properly dispersed, it imparts emulsion stability, opacity and suspension in a variety of products, and is used in nasal sprays, topical sprays and lotions, oral suspensions, emulsions, creams(1) and gels.
Incompatibilities
Microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium is
incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. See Cellulose, Microcrystalline, and Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium.
Safety
Microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium is used in a wide range of pharmaceutical formulations and has low oral, dermal and inhalation toxicity. It is nonirritating to the eyes and skin, and nonsensitizing to the skin. No significant acute toxicological effects are expected.
Handling Precautions
Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Eye protection is recommended. See also Cellulose, Microcrystalline, and Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium.
Related Substances
Cellulose, microcrystalline; carboxymethylcellulose sodium.